The Chinese government issued a regulation early October aimed at restricting vulgar entertainment programs broadcast on provincial TV stations. The department in charge of media believes there is too much of it and is determined to promote better quality programs.

Quiz shows, reality shows, dating programs and talk shows...

It seems audiences never get enough. An investigation by the State Administration of Radio, Film and Television shows that the 34 Satellite TV channels run a total of 126 entertainment programs during prime time every week. That’s 17 a day! The new policy will reduce that number and request channels to diversify their programming, adding news and other programs promoting better social values.

But these programs are popular among young audiences.

"I don’t think it’s necessary to limit entertainment programs. I don’t think there are too much of these kinds of programs."

"Nowadays, young people face a lot of pressure. We don’t have enough time to go out and have fun. These entertainment programs mean an option for us. But there ARE lots of programs that are too fake and lack authenticity. I don’t support the limit but neither do I oppose it. I’m neutral."

"I think there’re too many entertainment programs now. We need to control this trend. But we needn’t cut all of them out. I think it’s reasonable to have proper limits on entertainment programs."

There has also been great discussions online. Some netizens point out it’s not bad to advocate good taste among audiences, but people disagree on how this should be done. Some industry experts worry the ban will simply drive the audience away from traditional media towards the internet.

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