ABC signs historic China pact

Australian pubcaster ABC has clinched a ground-breaking deal in China, enabling it to launch an online portal giving Chinese consumers direct access to Australian content and bolster its coproduction activities there.

The ABC will establish a base in Shanghai with official approval to represent and sell media content across China, enter into international coproductions and generate international sponsorship and promotional opportunities.

ABC spokesman John Woodward told C21 the broadcaster believes this is the first time a foreign media organisation has been allowed to operate a portal in China.

“This gives us the opportunity to show Australian content in China in a way that has not been possible,” he said.

The ABC aims to feed its own productions, content from its pan-Asian Australia Network and programming from independent producers, Australian commercial free-to-air broadcasters and paynet Foxtel through this new pipeline. The portal will carry advertising and sponsorship.

Woodward said the travel, educational and business programmes would be highly suited to Chinese audiences, as well as entertainment fare.

The new, multi-platform media co-operation agreement expands ABC International and Australia Network’s long-term relationships with the Shanghai Media Group, supported by the Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture, Radio, Film and TV.

The deal is due to be signed in Shanghai on May 4 and follows the Australian government’s ‘Australia week in China’ trade mission led by Prime Minister Tony Abbott. A launch date for the portal is yet to be set.

“This historic agreement opens up a whole new world of television and online cooperation between Australia and China,” said ABC MD Mark Scott said. “It provides a truly unique window for all Australian media to build a friendly and mutually cooperative relationship with China.”

ABC International CEO Lynley Marshall said: “This agreement will enable us to put the full range of Australia Network programming and content from other Australian media into China and for China to connect more closely with our media.

“Most importantly, the agreement will provide opportunities for promotion of Australian business, tourism, entertainment, culture and education.”