Permission to produce this year's TV animations has been granted by the State Administration of Radio, Film and Television, or SARFT.

According to the national media watchdog, 164 animated programs totaling over 20,000 episodes have been given the go-ahead.

Compared to SARFT's approval procedures for TV dramas, the scrutiny of animated series is less severe, resulting in an approval rate of 94 percent.

The examination also urged media administrations at all levels to support the creation, production and airing of domestic animations.

Industry insiders say China's animation and cartoon businesses are losing money, causing output to further decline.

(CRI.com.cn March 22, 2005)