A PYMNTS Company

China/South Africa: Media buyout reveals China’s political agenda

By  |  September 12, 2013

The recent buyout of a major South African newspaper conglomerate by China International Television Corp. represents an expanding presence of Chinese firms within South Africa media, a move reports say its part of a larger agenda to promote Chinese views within Africa.

A series of buyouts and Chinese-owned branches within South Africa has lead to journalists claiming the media is skewed towards a pro-China biased. Some journalists say they have been ordered to promote pro-China news, avoid terms such as “regime,” and self-censor reports.

Independent News and Media, recently purchased by Chinese investors, owns several daily newspapers throughout the nation. China International Television acquired 20 percent of the company.

South Africa’s Competition Commission says the one-fifth control of the media company allows its Chinese owners to control the material presented by the newspapers.

Full Content: USA Today

Want more news? Subscribe to CPI’s free daily newsletter for more headlines and updates on antitrust developments around the world.