CRI to cut popular programs for audiences in Shanghai

Shanghai's 87.9 FM, which is owned by China Radio International, is set to see a decrease in the number of shows being produced from Beijing.

For years, many programs, such as the morning drive show featuring Felix and Yuzhou, China Drive AM and PM, and learning shows were simulcast on CRI EasyFM stations throughout China. But that's about to change.

China Media News has learned that advertisers in Shanghai are finding it difficult to sell English-language programs. They have been given increased control over programming decisions, and want more Shanghai-centric programs in Chinese.

China Media News understands that China's largest and most dynamic market would require more tailor-made programming. However the result is that many popular programs will be pulled off the air, alienating loyal listeners. In fact, these shows, including the Learning Pub, and the Pulse (which replaced Joy FM) were pulled in March. Felix and Yuzhou's show and China Drive PM were the only ones returned after massive listener complaints.

The only show that will remain in Shanghai will be Yuzhou and Felix's morning music show. The change will occur within the next two weeks. CRI staff in Beijing have been instructed not to mention the move on air, and a phone number has been set up for listener complaints.