New Chinese regulations force media to shun 'Western lifestyle'

A separate draft law that demands members of the film industry maintain excellent 'moral integrity' is also being reviewed.

China piracy — With stricter censorship of media, people in China turn to illegal pirated DVD sellers for foreign entertainment Guang Niu/Getty Images

China's State Administration for Press, Publishing, Radio, Film and Television (SAPPRFT) has issued a new directive that prohibits state media from promoting "Western lifestyle" and other views that are not in tandem with the views of Communist Party leaders.

According to the new rules, which were issued on 29 August, shows will not be allowed to satirise classic works of Chinese literature or encourage decadent behaviour and are expected to promote "positive energy".

The new guidelines also threaten to ban programmes that promote overnight fame, the flaunting of wealth, hedonism, or fanaticism for pop stars and internet celebrities. Producers or broadcasters of such shows are at risk of losing their licenses for releasing such material, Reuters reported.

The new measure to censor the already strictly regulated Chinese media is the latest move by President Xi Jinping to eliminate the influence of the West in China.

Another draft film law has also been submitted to the bimonthly session of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, which if passed will require people in the film and entertainment industry to uphold "excellence in both professional skills and moral integrity," the State run news agency Xinhua explained.

The draft stated that film distribution companies and cinemas involved in fabricating movie ticket sales or engaging in improper methods will be liable for administrative punishments, including fines of up to 500,000 yuan ($75,000, £57,300), business suspensions, and outright bans.

Post production services for foreign films can be undertaken by citizens, corporations and other organisations with the exception of content that could "harm national dignity and interest of China, cause social instability, or hurt the national feeling".

China already has strict regulations and censorship of the content being offered for viewing. However, foreign television shows, films and music continue to filter into the country through illegal downloads and pirated CDs.