It’s a Whole New Game
Chinese online game companies are not only competing with international game providers, but are cooperating with some of them. For one thing, the market size is probably the single most appealing factor to many international investors. However, as China Daily illustrates, existing and potential investors may also be exposed to risk and challenges rooted from such issues as piracy or government regulations.
The overwhelming majority of game titles on the
Chinese mainland in 2001 came from South Korea and
Taiwan or other markets, but domestic games accounted
for more than half the domestic market last year.
South Korean TV Drama Sparks Boom in China
An increasing number of international TV shows and films have gained popularity over the past decade in China, despite the existing control and censorship system for imported media products. This TV drama from South Korea stands out as one of the most successful TV dramas on the Chinese TV screen in recent years. But according to Xinhuanet.com, there are concerns over an imminent South Korean domination in Chinese pop culture.
Others have expressed that the “cultural mecca” of China’s Y Generation is now Seoul. It has replaced Europe and the United States as a place of inspiration.
Chinese Film Official Says Censorship System Will Change
Following the recent announcement of tightened control over foreign media ownership, Chinese authorities have now started to give hope to potential investors in the media industry. As is true with most cases of market liberalization, the dynamics between progress and control seem to be always ongoing. While the authorities’ determination to improve the current film censorship structure is reiterated in this article from CNN.com, no timelines are specified at this point.
“The mainland typically allows in only about two dozen foreign films a year, and the movies are often delayed by a lengthy censorship process. Chinese authorities also keep tight watch on Internet content.”
Report on Chinese Digital Television Industry Development 2005
China’s DTV market is predicted by many industry speculators to become one of the world’s largest in the upcoming years. The development of this industry may bring great opportunities for related parties such as content producers, facility providers, and TV set manufacturers. The executive summary from this report on Analysys.com contains a brief description of the current DTV market environment in China, along with sensible suggestions for both industry practitioners and regulators.
Digital China: Television Market May Blossom
Over the past few years, China has become one of the world’s top suppliers of digital hardware. Meanwhile, the country’s domestic DTV market is showing a tendency of rapid expansion. However, this article from Reed Electronic News indicated that the development in hardware supplies would not necessarily translate into the overall DTV growth, as content is another essetial factor.
“China is to some extent getting digitized along with the rest of the television world, however. eMarketer estimates that among the leading countries in the Asia/Pacific region, by the end of this year there will be approximately 30 million households accessing digital TV via cable, satellite or terrestrial signals at the end of 2005. This will rise to nearly 170 million households by 2010, according to the market research firm.”