Chinese TV company locates European base in London

The most prominent broadcaster in China, CCTV, is the latest international firm to branch out into the UK capital's growing media sector.

Backed by UK Trade & Investment and London's foreign direct investment organisation Think London, CCTV will build on the business connections between China and London as both countries prepare to host the Olympic Games.

"With the wide and ever-evolving exchanges between China and the United Kingdom, CCTV Europe, with its headquarters in London, will be the messenger between the two countries.

Zhao Hua Yong

President

CCTV

Mr Zhao Hua Yong, president of the TV firm, said: "CCTV Europe will be the eye-witness, the communicator and promoter of these developing relations.

"With the wide and ever-evolving exchanges between China and the United Kingdom, CCTV Europe, with its headquarters in London, will be the messenger between the two countries.

With the Beijing Olympics this year and the London Olympics in 2012, the opening of this broadcasting centre is not just good commercial sense; it is good cultural sense

Lord Digby Jones

Minister for Trade and Investment

‘Gateway to Europe’

Michael Charlton, chief executive of Think London, explained that CCTV's move highlights the "world class technical skills and infrastructure" of London's TV sector.

Charlton stated: "London is the premier broadcasting centre and a natural gateway to Europe. CCTV's decision to establish themselves in London highlights their status as a global player in the industry.

How did UKTI help CCTV?

UK Trade & Investment staff worked alongside Think London to assess suitable property options for CCTV and ensure that the company was able to take occupation of its chosen facility within the allotted timeline.

The agencies also introduced CCTV managers to Ofcom, the independent regulator and competition authority for the UK communications industries.Minister for Trade and Investment Lord Digby Jones concluded: “With the Beijing Olympics this year and the London Olympics in 2012, the opening of this broadcasting centre is not just good commercial sense; it is good cultural sense.”