Coveted licenses were dispensed to four companies to broadcast digital television. According to published reports, the licenses break the government's monopoly in the sector and were issued to Shanghai Television, China Broadcast Network, CHC Home Cinema, and a consortium of companies that includes China National Radio.

Other companies, both foreign and domestic, are eager for this break in the monopoly as they hope it will usher in fresh program changes and greater advertising opportunities.

Dow Jones reports that all the businesses granted licenses are state-owned enterprises. Foreign companies are still unable to acquire licenses to operate in China, but are able to have limited broadcast rights.