China is lifting its ban on foreign investment in television and film production companies.

The move is part of a package of landmark reforms intended to revitalize the country's media industry.

China's media regulators say they're determined to commercialize media organizations such as newspapers and television stations.

They say "strong and influential" foreign companies will be allowed to hold minority stakes in Chinese production companies.

Beijing is hoping a dramatic increase in private sector involvement in the country's television services will raise the quality and quantity of content produced locally.

(CRI February 9, 2004)