Beijing: The Chinese media has published its 2024 annual report with details of how the industry fared and what the future would look like. The 64-page detailed report contained extensive research intelligence that guides the drive of the sector.
According to Lao News Agency, the report titled “Development of China’s News Media, 2024,” compiled by the All-China Journalists Association (ACJA), was released to present an objective view of China’s media industry to international press practitioners. The document highlighted a notable economic leap in the sector, with revenue growth of 8.31% resulting in a total income of RMB3.15 trillion, approximately US$500 billion.
The report also emphasized China’s significant internet usage, with a consumption volume reaching 1.1 billion people, reflecting a growth of 7.42 million from December 2023 to June 2024, and achieving a national internet penetration rate of 78%. This technological penetration has led to a paradigm shift in news content production, driven by generative AI and other digital innovations, enhancing the omni-media communication system.
The integration of AI and other technologies within the media sector has facilitated the shift from traditional to new, internet-based social media platforms and AI-driven content production. The report detailed how various media levels are leveraging internet platforms to enhance quality, efficiency, and omni-media communication, supported by data from the 54th China Statistical Report on Internet Development.
In terms of newspaper circulation, the report revealed that in 2023, newspapers across China printed 26.01 billion copies, with a total subscription value of 35.57 billion yuan. The diverse range of newspaper categories reflects the multi-faceted needs of readers, with 2,168 publishing entities offering 2,405 distinct titles.
The radio and television sector also demonstrated growth, with over 50,000 institutions providing services by the end of 2023. The production of radio and television programs flourished, with statistics from China Audiovisual Big Data indicating significant audience reach and engagement in various program types.
Service quality improvements were noted, with nearly all users of cable TV and IPTV terminals enjoying simplified and transparent service offerings. The digital drive has evidently benefited the Chinese media industry, with revenue streams shifting from traditional channels to diversified structures, including digital advertising and multi-source income generation.
The report also highlighted international exchanges and cooperation, with industry organizations promoting global dialogue among media professionals. The ACJA facilitated various forums and signed a memorandum of understanding with the Polish Media Association to foster collaboration.
Research investment in AI and generative AI technologies is a focal point for China’s mainstream media, as they explore integrated applications in traditional media. Despite the technological advancements, human capacity growth remains a priority, with the newspaper publishing industry reporting a workforce of 184,000 in 2023, marking a slight increase for the third consecutive year.
