China Media and Entertainment Weekly News Bulletin – ISSUE 34 Week of 20 January 2025
(1) Hong Kong Signs 5-Year Deal to Keep World-Class Snooker Event at Kai Tak Arena
Hong Kong will host the World Grand Prix snooker tournament in March as part of a new five-year deal, marking the city’s first ranking event in over 30 years.
(2) TME Reveals 2024 Rankings, Celebrating the Flourishing Landscape of Chinese Music
Tencent Music Entertainment Group released its 2024 music rankings, celebrating top artists and albums at the “Chinese Hit Song 2024 TME Year-End Chart” night.
(3) Hong Kong Film Council Revamps Financing Scheme to Boost Local Productions
The Hong Kong Film Development Council launched the Film Production Financing Scheme 2.0 to enhance local film production and attract investment.
(4) Trump Signs Executive Order Delaying TikTok Ban, as China Appears to Soften Stance on Selling App
President Trump has delayed the enforcement of the U.S. TikTok ban for 75 days as Chinese officials express a willingness to consider selling the app to a non-Chinese entity.
(5) Shanghai Courts Taylor Swift for 2025 Show as Chinese Cities Bet on Stars to Boost Economy
Shanghai is actively pursuing the opportunity to host a Taylor Swift concert this year as part of efforts to stimulate the local economy.
(6) ‘Little Prince’ Chinese Adaptation in the Works From Stars Collective, Shanghai’s El Pajaro
Stars Collective and El Pajaro Pictures are collaborating on a new animated adaptation of “The Little Prince” blending the original story with aspects of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s life, and with full authorization from the organization overseeing his legacy.
(7) M+ Special Exhibition ‘The Hong Kong Jockey Club Series: Picasso for Asia—A Conversation’ interprets Picasso’s legacy through an unprecedented cross-cultural and intergenerational dialogue with Asian artists
M+ in Hong Kong will host “The Hong Kong Jockey Club Series: Picasso for Asia” from 15 March to 13 July 2025, featuring over sixty works by Picasso alongside Asian artists.
(8) Zac Purton Sets New All-Time Record for Victories in Hong Kong with 1,814th Win
Zac Purton has made history as Hong Kong’s all-time winningest jockey with 1,814 victories, surpassing Douglas Whyte’s record of 1,813 at Happy Valley on Wednesday.
(9) HK’s Nicholas Tse to Hold 2 Kai Tak Shows After Coldplay
Nicholas Tse will be the first Hong Kong artist to hold two solo concerts at the Kai Tak Main Stadium on in late April shortly after Coldplay’s performances there earlier in the same month.
(10) The Inaugural Edition of the Longines Hong Kong International Horse Show is Set to Debut in February
The Longines Hong Kong International Horse Show 2025 will take place from 14 to 16 February at AsiaWorld-Expo, featuring a 5-star showjumping class, international performances, and family-friendly activities.
(11) Popular Restaurant Hikiniku To Come Opens New Location in Taipei’s Xinyi District
Japanese’s Hikiniku To Come (挽肉と米) has unveiled its largest flagship store in Taipei’s Xinyi District, a second branch of the establish in Taiwan offering a unique dining experience with interactive cooking and walk-in seating.
(12) Bugatti Tourbillon Unveiled in Shanghai and Hong Kong: A Fusion of Heritage and Innovation
Bugatti has debuted its latest hypercar, the Tourbillon, in Shanghai and Hong Kong in a show of automotive luxury and high-performance engineering.
(1) Hong Kong Signs 5-Year Deal to Keep World-Class Snooker Event at Kai Tak Arena
(Photo Credit: RLB)
Hong Kong is gearing up to welcome the World Grand Prix in snooker from 4 to 9 March 2025, as part of a newly secured five-year agreement to host the event. The tournament will take place at the state-of-the-art Kai Tak Arena, which has a seating capacity of 5,300, with expectations to set attendance records for ranking events. This marks the first ranking tournament in Hong Kong since 1989.
Simon Brownell, chief executive of the World Snooker Tour, cited the city’s passionate fan base as a pivotal factor in this decision. He recalled the remarkable turnout of 9,000 spectators during the 2022 Masters final, which set a world record for a snooker match, and it showcased the local community’s keen support for the sport and its ability to foster an electric atmosphere for players.
Meanwhile, Feng Huanhuan, CEO of F-Sports Promotions, shared her commitment to bringing the Grand Prix to Hong Kong, noting that alternative locations like Macau and Shenzhen were considered before finalizing the deal. With ticket prices ranging from HK$80 to HK$2,580 (around US$10 to US$331), interest is anticipated to be high.
News Source: https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3295700/hong-kong-signs-5-year-deal-keep-world-class-snooker-event-kai-tak-arena?module=perpetual_scroll_0&pgtype=article
(2) TME Reveals 2024 Rankings, Celebrating the Flourishing Landscape of Chinese Music
(Photo Credit: Tencent Music)
On 5 January 2025, Tencent Music Entertainment Group (“TME”) released its annual music rankings for 2024, which showcases a comprehensive overview of the Chinese music industry. The rankings encompass various sub-charts including the “Uni Chart” and the “Wave Chart”, all of which provides a detailed reflection of the year’s achievements across multiple platforms.
The announcement was celebrated at the “Chinese Hit Song 2024 TME Year-End Chart” night, co-hosted by Tencent Music and Zhejiang Television. The event featured a lineup of prominent artists, including Cai Xukun, Shan Yichun, and Silence Wang, who joined fans in a lively celebration of the year’s musical accomplishments. Among the top ten artists recognized were Zhou Shen, Angela Chang, and Khalil Fong, acknowledged for their significant contributions in songwriting and performance.
Additionally, the newly introduced “Korean Chart” also made its debut, with the K-pop group aespa achieving remarkable success across several categories including the K-pop group of the year. Meanwhile, solo artist YUQI’s single “FREAK” won K-pop Song of the Year, and she also claimed Best Artist and Best Solo Artist. As TME continues to document the dynamic landscape of the Chinese music scene, it remains dedicated to supporting emerging talents and celebrating their achievements in 2025.
News Source: https://news.qq.com/rain/a/20250121A06K6P00
(3) Hong Kong Film Council Revamps Financing Scheme to Boost Local Productions
(Photo Credit: “A Guilty Conscience”)
On 15 January, the Hong Kong Film Development Council (“HKFDC”) introduced the Film Production Financing Scheme 2.0 (“FPFS 2.0”) to bolster local film production and promote sustainable industry growth. This new initiative replaces the COVID-era scheme that financed 23 projects, including the record-breaking “A Guilty Conscience,” Hong Kong’s highest-grossing Chinese film of 2023. Recent films like “Papa” and “Last Song For You” were also funded by the previous scheme, and have performed well at the box office.
FPFS 2.0 features significant enhancements to attract filmmakers and investors. The maximum government funding has increased from HKD 9 million ($1.1 million) to HKD 10 million ($1.2 million), with eligible projects able to secure up to 40% of their production budget. Upfront disbursements have risen to 70% at the start of principal photography, and the project limit for applicants and financiers has doubled from two to four, allowing for easier recoupment of investments.
To qualify for FPFS 2.0, applicants must be registered film production companies with at least two released films. Projects should be feature dramas or animations intended for commercial release in Hong Kong, meeting specific runtime and budget criteria. Applications are open-ended and free of charge, with guidelines available on the FDC website. HKFDC chair Dr. Wilfred Wong, speaking on this new development, noted his confidence that the upgraded scheme will invigorate the local film industry and enhance production diversity.
News Source: https://variety.com/2025/film/asia/hong-kong-film-council-financing-scheme-1236275576/
(4) Trump Signs Executive Order Delaying TikTok Ban, as China Appears to Soften Stance on Selling App
(Photo Credit: Ascannio/Shutterstock)
On 21 January, President Donald Trump signed an executive order postponing the enforcement of the U.S. TikTok “divest-or-ban” law by 75 days. This decision coincides with a cautious shift from Chinese officials, who have signaled a willingness to consider the sale of TikTok to a non-Chinese entity. The order instructs the attorney general not to impose fines on app stores and service providers that support TikTok’s operations in the U.S., ensuring them that there are no violations during the specified period. The Chinese Foreign Ministry echoed this newfound flexibility, stating that companies should independently decide on their operations and acquisitions.
This marks a change from China’s previous firm opposition to any forced sale of the platform. Trump’s proposal for the U.S. to hold a 50% ownership stake in TikTok has drawn mixed reactions, with some viewing it as a potential solution for keeping the app operational.
TikTok briefly went offline in the U.S. following legislation requiring ByteDance to divest its ownership, but returned after Trump provided assurances to service providers. The evolving situation has sparked debates on social media, as users in China express frustration over the idea of a forced joint venture. Meanwhile, discussions persist regarding potential deals involving TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, amidst ongoing scrutiny from both U.S. and Chinese officials.
News Source: https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/trump-signs-executive-order-delaying-tiktok-ban-as-china-appears-to-soften-stance-on-selling-app/
(5) Shanghai Courts Taylor Swift for 2025 Show as Chinese Cities Bet on Stars to Boost Economy
(Photo Credit: Getty Images for TAS Rights Management)
Shanghai is exploring the possibility of hosting a concert by American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift this year, according to local tourism officials. Zhang Qi, deputy director of the city’s culture and tourism bureau, revealed that preliminary discussions have taken place between Swift’s team and Shanghai officials, which raises hopes for a potential performance.
The initiative to attract international stars comes amid growing recognition of their economic influence. Last year, advisers to the Shanghai government dubbed artists like Swift as “walking GDP” due to their ability to stimulate local economies. They have called for easing restrictions on foreign performers to facilitate more high-profile events with particular attention on the need for streamlined approvals and logistical support.
As demand for live entertainment surges, other Chinese cities are also competing to draw major acts. Recent announcements include plans for Ed Sheeran to perform in Hangzhou, while invitations have been extended to rap icons such as Cardi B and Travis Scott. With a bustling cultural scene, Shanghai remains a prime destination for international artists, and officials are optimistic that a concert by Swift could enhance the city’s economic recovery and cultural vibrancy.
(6) ‘Little Prince’ Chinese Adaptation in the Works From Stars Collective, Shanghai’s El Pajaro
(Photo credit: Stars Collective/El Pajaro Pictures Shanghai Co.)
Stars Collective is joining forces with Shanghai’s El Pajaro Pictures to create a new animated adaptation of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s classic novella, “The Little Prince”. The project aims to intertwine the original tale with elements from Saint-Exupéry’s life during 1940-1944, using a hybrid animation style that combines 2D watercolor and 3D oil painting techniques.
The beloved story follows a young prince on his interplanetary journey, encountering whimsical characters that offer profound insights into human nature. This adaptation has received full authorization from POMASE, the organization overseeing Saint-Exupéry’s legacy, with its president, Olivier d’Agay, highlighting the book’s significant success in China.
Founded by Peter Luo in 2020, Stars Collective is aggressively acquiring rights for various projects, including “Fortune Sons” and “Leigh Howard and the Ghosts of Simmons-Pierce Manor.” The new adaptation is currently in production, with Medialink Animation International handling licensing.
News Source: https://variety.com/2025/film/asia/little-prince-animated-adaptation-china-1236275590/
(7) M+ Special Exhibition ‘The Hong Kong Jockey Club Series: Picasso for Asia—A Conversation’ interprets Picasso’s legacy through an unprecedented cross-cultural and intergenerational dialogue with Asian artists
(Photo Credit: Nature morte à la Tête de taureau)
A major exhibition titled “The Hong Kong Jockey Club Series: Picasso for Asia—A Conversation” is set to take place at M+ from 15 March to 13 July 2025. This landmark event will feature more than sixty iconic works by the Spanish master Pablo Picasso, sourced from the Musée national Picasso-Paris, alongside over eighty pieces by contemporary Asian and Asian-diasporic artists from the M+ Collections. This marks a historic first, as it is the inaugural display of Picasso’s masterpieces in dialogue with an Asian museum collection.
This exhibition represents the first significant showcase of Picasso’s works in Hong Kong in over ten years, exploring the artist’s lasting impact on and connections with Asian art. The curatorial framework is built around four archetypes—The Genius, The Outsider, The Magician, and The Apprentice—which collectively illustrate the varied dimensions of Picasso’s influence on modern artists. Co-organized by M+ and the Musée national Picasso-Paris, the exhibition aims to create a rich intercultural dialogue and provide new perspectives on Picasso’s relevance in today’s artistic landscape.
Accompanying the exhibition, a comprehensive monograph titled “Picasso/Asia: A Conversation” will be published, which will feature over 200 colour illustrations and essays that delve into Picasso’s legacy in relation to contemporary art in Asia. Co-presented by M+ and the French May Arts Festival, the exhibition is supported by various sponsors and is expected to enhance cultural exchange between East and West, making it a pivotal event in Hong Kong’s artistic calendar.
News Source: https://www.mplus.org.hk/en/press/mplus-special-exhibition-picasso-for-asia-a-conversation/
(8) Zac Purton Sets New All-Time Record for Victories in Hong Kong with 1,814th Win
(Photo Credit: Hong Kong Jockey Club)
Zac Purton has etched his name in history as the leading jockey in Hong Kong racing by achieving a landmark 1,814 wins following a successful night at Happy Valley on 22 January. The seven-time champion surpassed Douglas Whyte’s longstanding record of 1,813 wins, a milestone that had stood since Whyte’s retirement in 2019.
The 42-year-old Australian jockey, who relocated to Hong Kong in 2007, secured his record-breaking wins in two 1,200-metre races, a testimony to his exceptional talent and consistency. Purton has consistently excelled throughout his career, surpassing 100 wins in a season nine times, including a record-setting 179 wins in the 2022/23 season. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to his supporters and the racing community for their unwavering encouragement following the historic night.
In a nod to his predecessor, Purton acknowledged Whyte’s transformative influence on Hong Kong racing, stating that his meticulous approach changed the landscape for jockeys. In return, Whyte, who was present to witness Purton’s achievement, commended him as one of the sport’s finest ““It’s been a long time coming. It was always going to happen and he’s one of the best riders we’ve seen around and he deserves it”.
News Source: https://www.thoroughbredracing.com/articles/6492/zac-purton-sets-new-all-time-record-victories-hong-kong-1814th-win/
(9) HK’s Nicholas Tse to Hold 2 Kai Tak Shows After Coldplay
(Photo Credit: Marketing Interactive)
Nicholas Tse, the acclaimed Cantopop singer and actor, is poised to make history as the first Hong Kong artist to hold two solo concerts at the newly constructed Kai Tak Main Stadium. Tse announced his “Evolution Nic Live” concerts on 15 January via a social media video, in which he was seen playing the guitar at the newly unveiled stadium. The concerts are scheduled for 25 and 26 April, with ticket prices ranging from HK$680 to HK$1,380.
While details regarding ticket sales are yet to be released, Tse’s announcement has already generated considerable excitement online, garnering over 9,400 likes on Instagram, with many fans expressing their eagerness to attend, including fans from Singapore and Malaysia.
The concerts will take place shortly after British rock band Coldplay performs at the venue on 8, 9, 11, and 12 April. Additionally, Taiwanese singer Jay Chou and rock band Mayday are scheduled to perform at the stadium later this year. The Kai Tak Sports Park is set to officially open in March, with the Hong Kong Sevens rugby tournament serving as its inaugural public event.
News Source: https://www.marketing-interactive.com/hk-nicholas-tse-to-hold-kai-tak-shows-after-coldplay
(10) The Inaugural Edition of the Longines Hong Kong International Horse Show is Set to Debut in February
(Photo Credit: Lifestyle Asia)
The Longines Hong Kong International Horse Show 2025 will take place from 14 to 16 February at AsiaWorld-Expo, marking it as a premier event on the sports calendar. Attendees can expect an action-packed lineup, featuring over 30 international horsemanship performances and a range of entertainment options suitable for all ages.
Among the highlights will be a 5-star international showjumping class, where thirty elite competitors will vie for a substantial HK$6.5 million prize. The event will also showcase young jockeys racing Shetland ponies and performances by renowned equestrian artist Santi Serra, who will demonstrate the extraordinary bond between horse and rider.
In addition to the equestrian events, guests can enjoy culinary demonstrations at the Chef’s Theatre, engage in activities at the LeMieux Kid’s Zone, and attend a Fashion Runway featuring local designers. This event promises to be a comprehensive celebration of equestrian sport and culture, attracting enthusiasts and families alike.
News Source: https://www.prestigeonline.com/hk/people/events/the-inaugural-edition-of-the-longines-hong-kong-international-horse-show-is-set-to-debut-in-february/
(11) Popular Restaurant Hikiniku To Come Opens New Location in Taipei’s Xinyi District
(Photo Credit: Hikiniku To Come)
The popular restaurant Hikiniku To Come has officially opened its second location in Taipei’s bustling Xinyi District. This new venue aims to provide a unique immersive dining experience that is designed to challenge the norms of the hamburger steak market. The design, crafted by a renowned Japanese team, showcases the authentic style of the original Japanese Hikiniku To Come.
The Xinyi branch features an innovative three-tiered curved theater seating arrangement with 42 seats, allowing diners to enjoy an expansive, interactive atmosphere. Guests will have the opportunity to watch their meals being grilled over an open flame, a specially curated feature of Hikiniku aimed at enhacing both the quality and the excitement of the dining experience. To mark the grand opening, the original Japanese team will be on-site to celebrate with local customers.
In a significant policy change, the restaurant will now include a waiting area for walk-in customers, making it easier for those without reservations to dine. This newly introduced adjustment aims to improve convenience for patrons looking to enjoy a meal while exploring the vibrant Xinyi area.
News Source https://www.lifestyleasia.com/hk/style/hyukoh-sunset-rollerocaster-aaa-hong-kong-pop-up-heath-news-info/
(12) Bugatti Tourbillon Unveiled in Shanghai and Hong Kong: A Fusion of Heritage and Innovation
(Photo Credit: Bugatti)
Bugatti’s latest hypercar, the Tourbillon, has made a striking entrance in Shanghai and Hong Kong as part of its global tour following its debut in June 2024. This new model represents a significant evolution for the brand, merging its storied heritage with cutting-edge innovation, and aligns perfectly with the vibrant cultures of both cities.
In Shanghai, the Tourbillon was displayed against the iconic skyline, with landmarks such as The Bund and the Oriental Pearl Tower providing a dramatic backdrop. Guests at the Kingsway Apex showroom in Jing’an were treated to an up-close look at the hypercar, marveling at its blend of artistry and advanced engineering that is testamentary to Bugatti’s long-standing reputation for luxury and performance.
The Tourbillon continued to impress in Hong Kong, where it was showcased alongside the Jacob & Co. Tourbillon timepiece to showcase the art of craftmanship. Its presence was felt throughout the city, from the historic Lin Fa Temple to the picturesque views of Victoria Harbor. The contrast of tradition and modernity in areas like West Kowloon and East Coast Park Precinct represents Bugatti’s commitment to timeless innovation as the Tourbillon cements its status as a pinnacle of performance and design in the automotive world.
News Source: https://www.drivespark.com/four-wheelers/2025/bugatti-tourbillon-shanghai-hong-kong-premiere-011-64507.html
