Content Americas 2026: Navigating Challenges in the Latin American TV Industry

Content Americas, launched in 2023, has rapidly established itself as the premier international TV market for Latin America and U.S. Hispanic audiences. In 2025, attendance reached 2,278 delegates, and for 2026, all exhibition space has sold out. However, the industry faces significant challenges, with Erik Barmack from Wild Sheep Content noting a contraction in the market characterized by fewer buyers and a decreased willingness to take risks. Ezequiel Olzanski from EO Media described the current times as "convulsive," highlighting the difficulties faced by production companies.

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The global streaming landscape has seen a dramatic decline in first-run orders in Latin America, halving from 67 in the first half of 2022 to just 32 in the same period of 2025, according to Ampere Analysis. Christian Gabela from Gaumont USA emphasized the rising production costs, particularly in Mexico, where incentives for television production are lacking. The ongoing consolidation within the industry, exemplified by the competition between Netflix and Skydance for Warner Bros. Discovery, adds to the uncertainty. Gabela anticipates a cautious approach from producers as the industry seeks stability.

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Despite these challenges, companies are exploring innovative paths. Globo, a leader in telenovelas, is experimenting with new formats, including international mini-series and collaborations with international studios. The upcoming Content Americas will feature discussions on how to reinvent the international TV business, with a focus on adapting to market demands and leveraging local narratives for global appeal.

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A notable trend is the increasing production of microdramas in Latin America, which are gaining traction among younger audiences. Omdia's María Rua Aguete is set to present statistics indicating that microdrama viewership on mobile devices is surpassing that of major global streamers. Globo has already begun producing microdramas, while TelevisaUnivision's ViX is integrating them into its offerings, reflecting a shift towards shorter, more engaging content.

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Latin American broadcasters are increasingly seeking international partnerships to enhance their production capabilities. Olzanski noted the importance of co-productions, particularly with Spanish broadcasters, to navigate the challenges posed by higher production costs. Gaumont USA is also exploring shooting in countries like Spain to optimize budgets while adapting local stories for broader audiences.

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Content Americas will host its traditional CoproPitch and Rose d’Or Latinos awards, showcasing new projects and fostering collaboration within the industry. The event will also highlight productions tied to significant cultural moments, such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which are seen as valuable intellectual property for storytelling.

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Erik Barmack stated, “These are convulsive times but also times to be active and creative,” emphasizing the need for innovation in the face of adversity. Olzanski expressed a commitment to rebuilding the industry, stating, “It is our clear goal and intention to be an active player... working on the creation of a new model for the industry.”

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• “The market has really contracted. There’s fewer buyers and less willingness to take risks,” — Erik Barmack, Wild Sheep Content

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• “It’s still a very challenging market, driven, in part, by elements that are out of producers’ hands,” — Christian Gabela, Gaumont USA

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• “You need to look at territories where budgets make sense,” — Christian Gabela, Gaumont USA

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As Content Americas 2026 approaches, the industry stands at a crossroads, balancing the need for innovation with the realities of a challenging market landscape.

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