Three-network convergence covers 300m people

China's online convergence of cable television, telecommunications and the Internet is progressing in 54 cities, affecting more than 300 million people, according to the president of the China Radio and Television Association.

Li Dan made the remarks in the China Three Network Convergence Summit, held in Beijing on Aug 22-23.

After years of debate, the Chinese government said in January 2010 that it planned to accelerate the move toward three-network integration. The move makes it possible for TV broadcasters, telecom carriers and Internet companies to enter each other’s fields and provide services.

China launched the first pilot convergence project in 12 cities, including Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen, in 2010. The nation had finished launching the second phase of trials in an additional 42 cities by the end of 2011.

Li said 2012 is the third year for China to push forward the tri-network convergence.

"New technologies, including cloud computing, have created opportunities for tri-network service innovation," he said.

Li said that 617 organizations have received licenses from the State Administration of Radio, Film and Television to conduct online video programs, and there are 17 online broadcasters in China.