SARFT limits imported TV programming

Chinese regulators banned all imported television programs during prime time and limited such shows to a quarter of channel programming each day, The New York Times reported. China’s State Administration of Radio, Film and Television said that broadcasters which violate the rules will face fees, but not did detail the amount. Most of the 30 foreign shows approved last year by regulators were from Hong Kong, Taiwan and South Korea. One new rule, restricting foreign TV shows to 50 episodes, may be aimed at South Korean soap operas. State media said that the regulations are designed to create “a favorable environment for TV shows made by companies on the Chinese mainland.” The new regulation is only the latest move by the agency to curb popular forms of entertainment and reality TV programming, as well as cut down on advertising during prime time.