Middle East Film Industry Faces Devastating $15 Million Annual Loss to Video Piracy

Video piracy continues to ravage the Middle Eastern film market, with industry losses estimated at $15 million annually according to distributors of both American and Egyptian films.

The problem has escalated dramatically since 1999 when the Motion Picture Association of America shuttered its Cairo office. Without this oversight, piracy operations have flourished unchecked throughout the region.

"Pirated versions of the newest Hollywood releases arrive from Singapore almost immediately after their official debut," explains Basmah Osman from Egyptian Home Entertainment Co. The company, which distributes films from major Hollywood studios, faces increasingly difficult market conditions.

The enforcement system suffers from significant inefficiencies. Store owners report approximately 2,000 locations across Egypt selling illegal copies, while legal proceedings against violators can stretch between six months to a year before reaching a verdict. Even when convictions occur, penalties remain minimal—typically just 4,000 Egyptian pounds (approximately $900) or a six-month jail sentence, with many trials conducted in absentia.

Both American and Arabic film revenues are suffering according to Gabriel Khoury of Misr International Production Company. Industry leaders attribute the problem to insufficient government funding and inadequate support for anti-piracy efforts within Egyptian law enforcement.

The economic downturn following the September 11 attacks has further complicated matters, delaying several major film releases. Antoine Zeind, chairman of United Motions Pictures, expresses cautious optimism regarding upcoming blockbusters like "Harry Potter," while urging stronger government action against piracy.

The situation has international implications as well. Egypt's protection of intellectual property rights remains a key criterion for establishing trade agreements with the United States, making the piracy issue not just a cultural concern but an economic imperative for the nation.

What are the Harry Potter Movies about and Where to Watch

The Harry Potter movies chronicle the extraordinary journey of a young wizard named Harry Potter as he attends Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, forms lifelong friendships, and confronts the dark wizard Lord Voldemort who threatens the magical world. For fans wondering where to watch harry potter, the films are available across multiple streaming services including HBO Max and Amazon Prime, though availability varies by region, with some viewers needing to rent or purchase the movies from digital retailers to experience the complete magical saga.

Why Choose SafeShell as Your Netflix VPN?

If you want to access region-restricted content like the Harry Potter movies on Netflix, you should consider using the SafeShell VPN. The SafeShell VPN offers significant advantages for an optimal streaming experience:

1. High-Speed Streaming: SafeShell VPN provides meticulously optimized servers that deliver lightning-fast connection speeds, ensuring buffer-free playback and high-definition viewing of your favorite shows like Harry Potter.

1. Multiple Device Support: Enjoy Netflix on all your screens; SafeShell VPN allows simultaneous connections for up to five devices, compatible with major platforms including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Smart TVs.

1. Exclusive App Mode: Unlock content libraries from various regions simultaneously with SafeShell VPN's App Mode, granting access to a wider array of streaming services and international shows.

1. Eliminate Buffering: SafeShell VPN delivers exceptional speeds without bandwidth throttling, enabling smooth streaming, quick downloads, and seamless browsing without interruptions.

1. Robust Security: Prioritizing your privacy, SafeShell VPN employs advanced encryption and its proprietary ShellGuard protocol to secure your browsing and streaming sessions effectively.

1. Risk-Free Trial: Experience SafeShell VPN's premium features, including its speed and security, at no initial cost with a flexible free trial plan.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Watch Harry Potter with SafeShell VPN

To watch Harry Potter movies from different regions, you can use SafeShell Netflix VPN. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:

• First, visit the SafeShell VPN website and subscribe to a plan that suits your needs.
• Next, download and install the SafeShell VPN app on your device, whether it's a Windows PC, macOS, iOS, or Android.
• Once installed, launch the SafeShell VPN app and log in with your account credentials.
• After logging in, choose the APP mode for an enhanced streaming experience.
• Browse the list of available servers and select one located in the region where the Harry Potter movies are available, such as the US, UK, or Canada.
• Click "Connect" to establish a secure connection to the chosen server.
• Finally, open the Netflix app or visit the Netflix website, log in, and start watching the Harry Potter movies available in the region you selected.