China puts squeeze on imported TV shows and remakes

China's media regulator has issued a directive limiting imported TV shows and remakes, aiming to promote domestic originality. Insiders have called for more training of producers.

With authorized remakes of foreign TV reality shows gaining popularity in China, the State Administration of Press, Publication, Radio, Film and Television ordered that all television stations must stop airing unapproved programs that are based on overseas formats starting July 1.

The licensing of TV programs, concepts and branding created overseas - mostly shows from Europe and South Korea - has been a growing trend in China since 2012.