January 08, 2014

China lifts ban on games consoles

The Chinese government has temporarily lifted a ban on selling foreign video games consoles, paving the way for firms such as Sony, Nintendo and Microsoft to enter a lucrative market.

China banned gaming consoles in 2000, citing their adverse effect on the mental health of young people.

A grey market in the sale of consoles has continued in the country.

But, partly as a result of the ban, PC gaming dominates - capturing two-thirds of the $13bn (£8bn) market.

In a statement, the government said that it would allow foreign firms to make consoles within Shanghai's free trade zone and sell them in China after inspection by cultural departments.

But China's State Council did not say how long the suspension would last.

In response to the news, Sony said: "We recognise that China is a promising market. We will continuously study the possibility, but there is no concrete plan at this stage."

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