Tencent Music Entertainment Group (TME) is terminating all exclusive audio content licensing agreements. China’s State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) approved TME’s acquisition of online audio platform Ximalaya on May 12, 2026.
The regulator prohibits TME from entering into any new exclusive copyright deals. TME must also terminate all existing exclusive agreements within a specific timeframe.
SAMR bars the company from raising service fees. TME must also maintain its current volume of free content.
Furthermore, TME cannot prevent content creators from partnering with rival platforms. These conditions aim to curb monopolistic practices and foster competition in China’s online audio and music streaming markets.