China Central Television is under fire for alleged graft and corruption. (Photo : Reuters)
"No pure land." Probably the most vicious accusation ever said about the Chinese media. And that includes both film and television.
This year, the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI) have identified five aspects of the media to be investigated by disciplinary officers as part of the government's campaign to smash corruption in media industry.
Li Quofang, head of the CCDI disciplinary group assigned in the State Administration of Press, Publication, Radio, Film and Television, stated on the commision's website that "the television and film industry is no pure land and contains many risks of corruption."
Li said that the industry's "hidden rules" will be investigated upon intensively, and stated five particular areas that the discipline inspection would focus on:
1. Purchase and marketing of films and TV series
According to Li, the buying and selling of TV series and films is one area where bribery not only occurred but flourished, especially in recent years. Apparently, the volume of these TV series and films is more than what the networks can manage. With only limited slots up for grabs, production companies bribe the network people, purchasers, and even advertisers for guaranteed airtime slots.
An insider revealed in a recent newspaper interview that even some state-owned production companies fake and doctor records of production costs and pocket the extra money gained from the illicit practice.
A CCDI report last year mentioned a censor official who earned more than 300,000 yuan ($47,970) in bribe money in exchange for airtime approval.
2. Grand gala events
For years, local governments organize grand gala events to serve as platforms in promoting themselves and their "achievements." In these galas, local officials sit in front of audiences and give speeches.
These festivals and galas are apparently financed by local government departments. These lavish events are in clear violation of government polices forbidding lavish festivals.
An insider from a Chongqing stage marketing company said that lavish galas involved millions of money and yet financial transactions are not transparent.
3. Satellite TV shows on local channels
The satellite TV station sends signals to ground receivers, telecom providers or directly to local cable networks. Money apparently exchanged hands between the satellite TV channels and local cable operators. These negotiations are apparently not transparent.
Li said that there is a big opportunity in this aspect that involves thousands to millions of yuan.
4. Procurement of equipment
Corruption apparently also happens during procurement of equipment from suppliers.
An official from an equipment provider who participated in Tianjin local TV networks' public bidding said: "Price and quality are secondary issues. No matter how good your price, you have to have a good relationship with leaders or purchasers first."
Song Xiaofeng and Shi Wenlian are officials from Anhui TV Station and Liaoning Provincial TV Station, respectively. Both were being punished for alleged cases of bribery.
5. Advertising
An insider said that "how a commercial can be broadcast, on what platform, at what time, and how much is the kickbacks are all hidden rules and channel."
Apparently, monopolies exist in TV and movie distribution companies. In order to get approval for broadcasting, one needs to bribe someone. The practice is so rampant that everybody is trying to rip off everybody.
The insider added: "There is too much money involved, and many ad department executives have fallen."
Li said that the discipline agency will promote the regulations to deter corruption.
CCDI records for last year revealed 405 graft cases where the media is involved, and 49 media directors are already being investigated.
