Chinese authorities put squeeze on SpongeBob SquarePants [View All]

[meegbear]

China will extend its ban on foreign cartoons to protect its own fledgling cartoon industry, the country's media watchdog said today.

SpongeBob SquarePants, Mickey Mouse and Pokemon are among those to be banned on all cartoon and children's channels during "the golden hours" of 5pm to 9pm.

The new regulations, which take effect from May 1, extend restrictions imposed in August 2006 that prevent foreign cartoons being screened at certain times.

The State Administration of Radio, Film and Television said in a statement that the measures would help "create a favourable environment for the domestic cartoon industry".

Only domestic cartoons approved by the regulator will be allowed. Any co-produced by Chinese and foreign collaborators will need official approval.

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http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2008/feb/20/china.television.media