China reins in TV fare

Watchdog threatens to fine nine channels

By CLIFFORD COONAN

BEIJING - China's TV watchdog has warned nine digital pay TV channels that they could face fines or even closure unless they stop broadcasting commercials, films and dramas in violation of their permits.

China keeps a tight rein on TV content and has strict rules about what digital pay TV stations may and may not broadcast. According to regulations issued by the State Administration of Radio, Film and Television in 2003, digital pay TV channels are prohibited from airing films or dramas unless that is their specific brief.

Among the digital broadcasters censured were Guangdong Southern Media Group's Tourism Channel, which failed to meet the minimum 90% requirement for its program content and broadcast commercials in breach of its broadcasting permit.

GSMG's Tourism and Shopping channels, as well as Henan TV's Traditional Opera channel, had broadcast on the analog network in certain areas, giving access to nonpaying viewers, the statement added.

Other digital broadcasters slapped on the wrist included Jiangsu, Tianjin, Guizhou and Liaoning channels.