On 20 June 2016, the Chinese State Administration of Press, Publication, Radio, Film and Television issued a directive imposing mandatory prior approval of foreign or foreign-inspired programs television shows being broadcasted.
 
Programs classified as foreign or foreign inspired television must submit an application for approval two months prior to broadcasting. Without prior approval, such programs are not permitted to air. Channels broadcasting such programs without prior approval will be prohibited to show any foreign or foreign-inspired programs for one year.
 
This regulation comes into force 1 July 2016.