China is to crack down on the illegal use of the Olympics logo, the State Administration For Industry and Commerce (SAIC) said Thursday.

The SAIC has ordered its local offices to check on unauthorized use of the logo.

Television programs, newspapers, websites, and print are forbidden from using the logo without permission, said the SAIC.

Activities that violate the legitimate rights and interests of the Olympic sponsors will also be punished.

Inspection departments in Olympic cities are asked to strengthen monitoring and supervision, especially at airports, highways, hotels, residential areas, competition arenas.

The 2008 Beijing Olympic Games will start on August 8. Co-host cities and regions include Shanghai, Tianjin, Qingdao, Shenyang, Qinhuangdao and Hong Kong.

(Xinhua News Agency June 20, 2008)