The new regulation will emulate the overseas' performing arts market by encouraging the use of social capital to develop the performing arts market, said Zhang Xinjian, deputy director of the ministry's Cultural Market Administration Department.

Foreign capital has not yet been allowed in the running of performing troupes, venues or agencies, neither in a cooperative arrangement nor as sole funding. It is permitted to be used only in reconstructing or building performance venues but not in management and decision-making.

Zhang refused to provide any further details of the new regulation but stressed the revision had been drafted to fulfil China's promises to the World Trade Organization.

According to him, the new regulation will introduce and promote the concept of performing seasons, producers and managers (brokers) - a practice already popular in some developed countries, while the old system and rules - for example, the establishment of performing arts agencies that have to strictly follow the boundaries of administrative divisions - will be diminished.

Large agencies with abundant capital and rich experience will be encouraged to expand by annexing other, smaller agencies and setting up branches in other regions.

Besides, a network for tour performances in China will also be set up, showing different sorts of art performances along various tour routes.

(China Daily April 1, 2002)