Network18 has renewed its long-running partnership with CNN International for its English news channel, CNN-News18, extending the brand and content licensing agreement by another ten years, taking the association through to December 31, 2035.
The renewal marks the third decade of collaboration between the two media organisations. The partnership was first established in 2005, renewed in 2015, and has now been extended once again, underscoring what both sides describe as a successful and evolving global news alliance.
Third decade to focus on global digital reach
Under the renewed agreement, CNN-News18 will significantly expand its digital presence beyond India. The channel plans to scale its footprint across international markets through platforms such as YouTube and connected TV (CTV), enabling access to global audiences across devices and geographies.
The next phase of the partnership is positioned around strengthening CNN-News18’s presence in the worldwide digital news ecosystem, reflecting changing consumption patterns and the growing role of large-screen digital platforms.
Network18 highlights milestone collaboration
Commenting on the extension, Rahul Joshi, managing director and editor-in-chief, Network18 Group, described the renewal as a landmark moment for global news partnerships.
“This renewed partnership represents a landmark, one-of-a-kind collaboration in global news. The TV news partnership that has flourished for two decades will now open doors to new avenues of growth, including an expanded presence on digital and connected TV,” Joshi said.
Network18 noted that the relevance of the partnership has grown in an increasingly interconnected news environment, where developments in one part of the world have immediate implications for audiences elsewhere.
CNN underscores importance of affiliate partnerships
CNN International also emphasised the strategic importance of the association. Phil Nelson, executive vice president, CNN International Commercial, said affiliate relationships have been central to CNN’s global strategy since its inception.
“Having a network of strong affiliate partners has been core to CNN since our very founding in 1980. To that end, we are delighted to extend our long-term partnership with Network18 for the continuation of the licensing of the CNN brand and the expansion of one of our largest and most prominent affiliates worldwide,” Nelson said.
Investment planned across digital, tech and editorial
CNN-News18 has already expanded its presence on connected TV platforms to cater to a growing segment of viewers consuming news on large-screen digital devices. Network18 said it plans further investments in the channel’s digital, technological and editorial capabilities to strengthen its leadership position and broaden its reach in India and overseas markets.
The channel operates from the New Delhi region, with bureaus across the country, supported by Network18’s broadcast infrastructure, news-gathering technology, and a dedicated editorial and production team.
