China restricts TV shows based on foreign formats

BEIJING (AP) -- China is restricting the broadcast of TV shows that use formats from abroad such as “The Voice of China,” which is based on a Dutch talent show.

The broadcasting regulator says the move is intended to lead to more innovation and original programming among Chinese TV channels.

The State Administration of Press, Publication, Radio, Film and Television has issued similar orders in the past to satellite TV channels, limiting variety and other entertainment shows, reality programs and, most recently, programs that employ celebrities’ children.

The directive, the text of which was published on China.com, a news portal run by the Cabinet’s information office, said that some channels were “still too dependent on broadcasting foreign programs” and had few original ideas.