A wide-ranging and sophisticated communications network has developed in Hong Kong, reflecting its thriving commerce and international importance. There are some 60 newspapers (in various languages, but mostly Chinese) and the numbers of periodicals run into the hundreds. The territory is in addition the East and Southeast Asian headquarters for most of the major international news services. Broadcast news is provided by several television and radio companies, one of which is government-run. Under the British administration, the press developed largely free from government censorship. Television provides the major source of news and entertainment for the average family, and the Chinese television programs produced are not only for local consumption but also for overseas markets. Hong Kong also ranks as an important centre of publishing and printing: numerous books are published yearly for local consumption, several leading foreign publishers have their regional offices in Hong Kong, and many international magazines are printed in the territory.
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Kowloon-street-at-night-Hong-KongKowloon street at night, Hong Kong.[Credits : Photos.com/Jupiterimages]
Hong-Kong-skyline-at-night-including-the-Convention-and-ExhibitionHong Kong skyline at night, including the Convention and Exhibition Center (centre).[Credits : © Digital Vision/Getty Images]
Hong-Kong-Island-from-Victoria-Peak-Hong-KongHong Kong Island (centre background) from Victoria Peak, Hong Kong.[Credits : © M. Borchi/DeA Picture Library]
Street-scene-Hong-KongStreet scene, Hong Kong.[Credits : © Goodshoot/Jupiterimages]
Boat-people-in-Hong-Kong-Harbour“Boat people” (Tanka) in Hong Kong Harbour.[Credits : © Goodshoot/Jupiterimages]
Woman-lighting-incense-at-a-Buddhist-temple-Hong-KongWoman lighting incense at a Buddhist temple, Hong Kong.[Credits : © Corbis]
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