Chinese Authorities Stamp Down on Spongebob Squarepants

China will extend its ban on foreign cartoons to protect its own fledgling cartoon industry, the country's media watchdog said today.

SpongeBob SquarePants, Mickey Mouse and Pokemon are among those to be banned on all cartoon and children's channels during "the golden hours" of 5pm to 9pm.

The new regulations, which take effect from May 1, extend restrictions imposed in August 2006 that prevent foreign cartoons being screened at certain times.

The State Administration of Radio, Film and Television said in a statement that it is intended to help "create a favorable environment for the domestic cartoon industry".

Only domestic cartoons approved by the regulator will be allowed. Any co-produced by Chinese and foreign collaborators will need official approval.

Television stations will be required to observe a daily broadcast ratio between Chinese-made and foreign cartoons, and must increase funding to buy and develop local cartoons.

Foreign cartoons, especially from Japan, are increasingly popular with Chinese children. China has in turn promoted its own children's programming, including cartoons adapted from ancient Chinese stories.

The authorities have made other efforts to control popular culture, recently banning sexually suggestive audio and video products as well as films containing horror or supernatural elements.

Regulators have issued new warnings against pornography, and restrictions on video-sharing websites, which are accused of broadcasting pornography.

The regime is stepping up its control of culture ahead of the Beijing Olympics in August, which it sees as a chance to showcase its economic and political clout.