Chinese radio, TV stations to pay music royalties

MUMBAI: Chinese radio and TV stations are expected to pay royalties on the music they broadcast from next year.

A set of fee collection methods and standards will be officially promulgated. Media reports state the methods and standards are being drawn up by the Office of Legislative Affairs of the State Council.

In 2001, the government amended its copyright law, requiring radio and TV stations to pay fees to copyright holders for playing their recordings unless they have reached other agreements on fees.

However, specific methods and standards are yet to be set out.