How to organize an event in China: broadcasting, constraints, and technical solutions

Organizing an event with worldwide broadcast? It's not as easy as you might think! When you have a website, you might think that it is accessible to everyone, no matter where they are in the world. This is not necessarily the case, particularly in China.
Broadcasting an event in China can present several challenges due to the strict regulations in force in the country.

Why China is a high-potential market

1. China: an unexplored El Dorado for your events

Anticipation is the key to success, regardless of the event you wish to organize, and doubly so for a seminar or convention in the Land of the Rising Sun.
In order for your event platform to be accessible in China, certain parameters must be defined.
Have you ever heard of ICP* licenses, the Great Firewall*, or Content Delivery Networks*?
If not, now is the time to read this article! 

The main constraints for broadcasting events in China

Faced with the rise of digital events and to facilitate access to events in China, effective planning requires knowledge of all the complexities of the Chinese ecosystem.
Here are some of the main constraints:
#Censorship and information controlChina has strict online censorship rules, which can restrict the content that can be broadcast during events. Certain politically or socially sensitive topics may be banned or heavily regulated.
#A license is required
To broadcast an event online in China, it may be necessary to obtain a specific license from the authorities, especially for large-scale or public events.
#Timing: time zones and accessibility
Since the world is not aligned to the same time zones, you will need to consider scheduling several time slots for your event so that everyone can participate.
#Technological restrictions
Some online broadcasting tools that are popular in other countries may be blocked in China, which means you have to use local platforms or those approved by the authorities, which sometimes have specific technical features or requirements.
But have you tested to ensure compatibility with the player you want to use? Test and learn to avoid unpleasant surprises on the day and for your future events!
#Language and cultural barriers 
The Chinese language and culture can be barriers to broadcasting events in China. Adaptation and a precise understanding of local culture and expectations are necessary to effectively reach Chinese audiences.
French, English, Chinese... In which languages will your event be broadcast?
You will need to consider a multilingual player that works on all types of devices.
This will remove any limitations for your participants.

What technical solutions are available for effective broadcasting in China?

Use a CDN that is suitable for China

CDN will enable fast loading of your web platform, content, and high-definition streaming.
Many CDNs already allow events to be broadcast around the world without any streams being blocked.
However, not all of these CDNs have servers in China, as most are American, which complicates the broadcasting of digital events in the country.

Border areas: a strategic alternative

However, there are other more suitable solutions.
Using CDNs based in areas bordering China (Korea, for example) can be an attractive option because they are less expensive and operate more efficiently than CDNs located in China.
AppCraft has expertise in issues related to organizing events in China and has all the experience necessary to support you in your project.
By using a CDN, we deliver the best performance and ensure that all technologies are "brought together" to guarantee that your event runs smoothly.

Checklist for successfully broadcasting an event in China:

• Choose a CDN suited to the region
• Check compatibility with the video player
• Provide a responsive multilingual player
• Adapt content to the Chinese cultural context
• Anticipate ICP license requests if necessary
• Test the platform from China
• Plan for multiple broadcast times

Glossary of essential terms

Great Firewall
Also known as the Great Digital Wall in reference to the Great Wall of China, it is an advanced filtering system (firewall) designed to control the flow of information online. The Great Firewall of China slows down website speeds by 40%, sometimes preventing content or images from loading completely.
Sites not hosted in China are strictly controlled via this firewall, preventing content from being distributed to Chinese internet users.
ICP license for Internet Content Provider
An ICP license may be necessary but is not mandatory to distribute your content.
Is your site hosted in China?
If you wish to invest in the Chinese market, you can obtain your ICP license by applying before organizing your event.
CDN stands for Content Delivery Network
The essence of CDN is to facilitate the distribution of your content from data centers located in many cities across China, connected to the main Internet service providers in each region.
A CDN will optimize your event platform and user experience, allowing you to provide high-quality content to your participants. 

Do you have an event to organize?

Get started with Appcraft!

Follow us on social media

Appcraft Insurance

Do as our 200+ clients, agencies, and companies have done:
choose peace of mind with the No. 1 provider.

The comprehensive event platform to manage all your events
Discover our newsletter
The latest event news, resources, and best practices delivered to your inbox every month
Our certifications
ISO 27001 certification icon symbolizing information security, data protection, and IT risk management.GDPR icon representing European GDPR compliance and personal data protection in a secure digital solution.ISO 20121 certification icon illustrating responsible event management and commitment to sustainable development.
Our partners
Freelance event professionals collaborating on the organization and management of professional events via a centralized digital platform.