The BBC is planning to launch a Netflix-like subscription-based video streaming service in the US to offer on-demand content.
The move is part of the broadcaster’s plan to increase its commercial returns by over £30m per year.
Expected to be launched next year, the new service will be the starting point of BBC’s plans to go directly to audiences abroad, instead of depending on foreign cable firms and broadcasters.
BBC director general Tony Hall said: "We’re launching a new over-the-top video service in America offering BBC fans programmes they wouldn’t otherwise get – showcasing British actors, our programme-makers – and celebrating our culture."
The service will not have programmes that are presently shown on US channels like BBC America, including Doctor Who and Top Gear.
Financial Times reported that the BBC received £226.5m in returns from commercial activities in 2014, equal to around 7% of its budget.
The corporation is planning to increase commercial returns to £1.2bn in the next five years, a 15% rise on the earlier period.
It was revealed earlier this month that the BBC is proposing to launch a music streaming service as part of its charter review.
The corporation developed a digital music proposal to build on the existing Playlister service.
