DVD region codes is a provision in the DVD Specifications that requires DVD players to be hard-coded to accept DVDs that are only meant to be played within one of six designated world regions. A Region 1 disc cannot be played in a Region 3 DVD player for example. This technique was developed to enable Hollywood companies to release movies at different times in different regions.

DVD Regions are defined as:

Region 1 US, Canada, US Territories

Region 2 Japan, Europe, South Africa, and Middle east (including Egypt)

Region 3 Southeast Asia and East Asia (including Hong Kong)

Region 4 Australia, New Zealand, Pacific Islands, Central America, Mexico, South America and the Caribbean

Region 5 Eastern Europe (former Soviet Union), India subcontinent, Africa, North Korea and Mongolia

Region 6 People's Republic of China

Region 7 Reserved

Region 8 Special international venues (aeroplanes, cruise ships, etc.)

Region 0 Region free, can be played on any DVD player.