China may appeal WTO ruling on film
- Source: Global Times
- [01:40 August 14 2009]
- Comments
By Kang Juan
A woman checks messages on her cell phone yesterday in front of promotional posters for foreign-made movies in Beijing. China said it “regretted” a World Trade Organization decision ordering it to ease some of its restrictions on foreign films, music and print. Photo: AFP
China yesterday downplayed the impact of a WTO decision in favor of a US complaint over China's imports and distribution of publications and audiovisual products, saying it is still difficult for the US to win the lion's share of the cultural market of the largest developing country.
The Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) said in a statement yesterday that China regretted that the WTO dispute panel did not reject the US complaint, insisting that China had provided ample market access to foreign publications, films and audiovisual products, with all its measures in compliance with WTO regulations.
“China will conscientiously assess the ruling report by the expert panel and does not exclude the possibility of appealing on China’s points of concern,” the statement said.
The case, dating back to 2007, involves publications such as books and newspapers, audio and video products such as films, CDs and DVDs, and video games and music-download services.
