TEGOS team is representing MyTV OÜ in a litigation before the Vilnius Regional Court, where the Association of Lithuanian Neighbouring Rights (AGATA) has filed a claim against Rimi Lietuva UAB. AGATA is seeking remuneration for the use of neighbouring rights in the absence of a formal contract and is requesting an order for the cessation of what they consider unlawful actions.
This case concerns a complex combination of neighbouring rights, licensing agreements, and the role of independent administration subjects in music distribution. MyTV OÜ, which distributes the Soundreef playlist in Lithuania under valid contracts with Soundreef International Limited, is defending itself against AGATA’s claim for additional payments. AGATA asserts that MyTV should compensate for the use of neighbouring rights, despite MyTV having fully adhered to its licensing agreements.
A significant aspect of this case is ensuring the correct application of EU law. The EU directives on neighbouring rights have been poorly implemented in Lithuania, making it more difficult for independent administration subjects like Soundreef to distribute music legally within the country. Furthermore, AGATA’s actions appear to be aimed at establishing a monopoly over the licensing of neighbouring rights, which would severely restrict the ability of other entities to legally operate and distribute music in Lithuania. Our team is advocating for the court to address these issues and ensure that EU law is applied fairly, allowing independent entities to continue their operations.
The outcome of this case is of great importance, as it will clarify how neighbouring rights law should be applied in Lithuania and set a precedent for the treatment of third-party distributors. The ruling will not only affect MyTV but also have a wider impact on the music distribution industry in the region.
