CNN beefs up Asia operations

Asia is looming large on CNN’s screens as it puts into place plans to boost its international operations.

Two integrated newsgathering and production centres are being set up in Hong Kong and London as part of a review of its global operations. Hong Kong, alongside CNN’s other regional headquarters in London, will become a fully integrated regional newsgathering and production hub for the bureaus operating within the region.

The introduction of a new Asia focused CNN web site, to be launched in February, means that CNN’s ability to report from the region will be significantly enhanced.

The changes taking place internationally are part of the major review of newsgathering, production facilities and operations worldwide, and at CNN’s headquarters in Atlanta. Part of which involves the integration of the television and web newsgathering operation and the creation of a newsgathering ‘super desk’ manned 24 hours a day, seven days a week and providing the focal newsgathering point for CNN’s 34 different services.

“The new ‘super desk’ and newsgathering operation will provide faster, smarter editorial decision making, enhanced cross platform communications, better prioritisation and collaboration across all platforms,” said Eason Jordan, chief news executive and newsgathering president for CNN News Group.