European filmmakers rivet eye on Chinese market
While the rules and regulations on foreign media ownership in China are not likely to change in the foreseeable future, it doesn’t mean there are absolutely no opportunities for global media conglomerates in the country. Sometimes it would be wise to go around the existing policies and find some new ground. As described in this story from Sina.com, media co-production projects seem to be the best strategy at this moment to become involved in the Chinese market.
“The Chinese Government is mulling over preferential policies to encourage joint-venture film production by China and European nations. Products based on the cooperation will enjoy a national treatment and be sold directly on the Chinese market.”
Disney sees gaming in China as entry point
It looks like the mobile arena is not the only option international media giants are considering when it comes to market penetration in China. Based on this story from AdAge.com, Disney’s famous cartoon characters will soon make their first appearance in Chinese online games. This attempt will likely open the door to a lot more business opportunities for the company, rather than patiently waiting for the the markets of traditional media (i.e., television and film) to open up.
News Corp sells Phoenix TV stake to China Mobile
News Corp’s partially owned Phoenix Satellite Television has been one of the few successful examples of overseas broadcasters in mainland China. Despite the strict regulations on foreign media ownership in the country, Phoenix TV has somehow survived and flourished with a current coverage of about 40 million households. Based on this story from Washington Post, the recent move made by China Mobile, the country’s largest telecommunications service provider, may suggest a new wave of media conglomeration in China.