The number of subscribers to digital broadcasting services via satellite topped 10 million at the end of August, two years later than the targeted date, according to a report released Tuesday by an industry body.
The number includes viewers who receive the services through contracts with cable television companies, the Association for Promotion of Satellite Broadcasting said.
Digital satellite broadcasting services started in December 2000, with broadcasters aiming to secure 10 million subscribers within 1,000 days.
The number of subscribers reached 5 million in December 2003.
The service has failed to grow as fast as expected due to high prices of TVs that can receive the digital services.
Faced with a difficult business climate, MediaServe Corp., a Toshiba Corp. affiliate, and three other broadcasters have either already stopped services or announced plans to do so.