China Bans Ads During TV Dramas

BEIJING: China’s State Administration of Radio, Film and Television (SARFT) has ordered a national ban on airing commercials during dramas on television for all stations nationwide.

Starting in January, advertisements will not be allowed in the middle of programs lasting more than 45 minutes. This means commercials can only air back-to-back between programs. The new restrictions are said to be intended to help broadcasters uphold a "public service" by getting them to show more cultural programming.

"Radio and television are the mouthpiece of the party and the people and are important battlefields in publicity and ideology," SARFT said on its website. "They bear important responsibilities in the public cultural service system, they must fully play up their advantages and earnestly perform their duties."