China International Publishing Group (CIPG), also known as China Foreign Languages Publishing Administration, is the largest publisher of foreign-language materials in China. It was established in 1949. Subsequently, it has expanded to become a global publishing corporation with a specialization in the publication of books, magazines, and online portals.
The CIPG oversees the operations of seven publishing houses. It publishes more than 3,000 books annually and oversees the production of 50 journals in over 10 languages. Notable publications include the Beijing Review, China Today, China Pictorial, People’s China, and China Report.
Media assets
News portal: China Internet News Center, China Net, Digital Media Center
Publishing: Beijing Review, China Today, China Pictorial, People’s China Magazine, China Reports
State Media Matrix Typology: State-Controlled (SC)
Ownership and governance
Local journalists and experts interviewed for this report have indicated that the Chinese Communist Party exercises oversight and control over CIPG.
Source of funding and budget
As detailed in the CIPG’s most recent annual report for 2020, the organization is funded in a proportion of 78% through allocations from the state budget. Additionally, the company generates revenue through the sale of its products, including books and periodicals.
Editorial independence
As a public institution under the Chinese government, CIPG adheres to the “central government’s guidelines and policies on external propaganda.” Its publications are regarded by local journalists and experts as potent instruments utilized by the Chinese government to disseminate its perspectives and policies globally.
There is no legislation in place, nor is there an independent assessment or oversight mechanism, to validate the editorial independence of the media outlets owned by CIPG.
September 2024