China relaxes its rules to let foreign companies move in. (News).

The ability -- and willingness -- of UK record companies and retail chains to gain a foothold in China will take a significant step forward this week following an "unexpected" move to encourage foreign companies to establish businesses there and the announcement of a new crackdown on piracy.

From this Thursday, the Chinese government is lifting restrictions on Western corporations setting up shop and tapping into the massive Chinese market as long as they go into partnership with a local company and do not have a stake of 49% or more in the joint venture.

Also, from the beginning of February new, tougher regulations to ensure an "orderly" cultural market and helping significantly to reduce pirated audio products ...