China says online video sites need to licenses to show foreign TV dramas, films

China's broadcasting authority says online streaming sites must obtain licenses before showing foreign TV shows and movies, in a tightening of control over the industry.

The national broadcasting authority said Friday that video sites must register their foreign content with local authorities by the end of March. It says companies must obtain a screening license or distribution license for each foreign TV drama or film, and that unapproved programs will not be allowed to be shown starting in April.

It said this would "help online culture grow and prosper" by encouraging websites "to import a moderate amount of foreign films and TV shows that are healthy in content and fine in production."