This year marks the 80th anniversary of China's cartoon industry. And on Tuesday, a grand meeting-of-the-minds took place in Beijing, to discuss obstacles on the path ahead for Chinese animation.

From the first release in 1926, to today's digital features, Chinese cartoon films have come a long way. They've consistently provided enjoyable alternatives to Hollywood animation, both in content and style.

China produced almost 1400 hours of cartoons in 2006. The figure nearly doubles that of the previous year. But while putting an emphasis on quantity, experts warn that quality is the thing that really counts. Vice President of Chinese Animation Society Gong Jianying said:"We are now in urgent demand of quality cartoons. With their impact, we'd be able to develop strong momentum for Chinese animation." 

Originality was identified as the key force which must be nurtured in the industry. By today, 44 universities around the country have set up a major in animation arts, to cultivate more professionals. And these pros are now drawing up potential blockbusters - films with themes like The Monkey King and The Legend of Nezha. China is also developing the industry for new media, like the mobile phone.

(CCTV December 29, 2006)