Argentina has started digital broadcasting, using the Japan/Brazil hybrid ISDB compression system, on local Channel 7.
Local newspaper La Nacion reports (as reported by TV Latam): “Argentina is already rather acquainted with all benefits and advantages of the standard" and that is the reason why it is being tested. Brazil’s Minister of Communications, Helio Costa, has forecast that the Japanese standard would prevail in South America. So far, only Peru has firmly adopted ISDB (besides Brazil) although other nations have endorsed the technology.
As for Brazil’s lobbying, and aimed at turning the Japanese standard into a regional choice, the newspaper quotes a source stated that "integration is stronger than any other thing" and added that "all parties, ministries and advisors are participating in the process, they agree on a regional priority".
"After evaluating results (of the trials which are being carried out in Channel 7), decisions will be taken. We are just fine with Brazil and Japan. The decision will be made this year," the source declared. President Cristina Fernández de Kirchner had already hinted certain preference for ISDB when, a few months ago, she executed an agreement with the Brazilian leader Luis Inácio Da Silva to "evaluate" the issue.
