BEIJING - The Chinese government is encouraging domestic publishers of foreign-language periodicals to target the overseas market as part of the country's strategy to boost its media presence abroad.

According to a document issued by the General Administration of Press and Publication (GAPP), favorable policies will be granted to non-state-owned companies or domestic-foreign joint ventures that operate publications that target foreign readers.

A GAPP spokesman called it a major step to build China into a big player in the world media and publication market and make the cultural sector a pillar industry in the country.

The document also encourages Internet-based media to explore the international market and set up websites that specially serve overseas Internet users.