A terrestrial digital TV transmission standard, based on Tsinghua University's proposal and integrated with those of Shanghai Jiao Tong University and the Academy of Broadcasting Science, will be handed over to the National Development and Reform Commission for evaluation. China is expecting a the emergence of a fixed national standard by the end of 2005.

 

To address the problems of meager content, China has set a goal to launch 50 to 80 pay TV programs within year 2005. SARFT (State Administration of Radio Film and Television) has issued notifications to all subordinate Radio & Television Bureaus in early July, demanding that all SARFT approved pay channels be ready for broadcasting within 180 days. Those unable to meet the deadline will receive a 90 day extension by permission of the SAFT. Failure to meet the extended deadline will mean repeal of the broadcasting permit. Five units, including China DTV Media, have already secured qualifications to conduct businesses on a national scale.