China bans foreign words in local media

BEIJING - China has banned the use of foreign words, particularly English ones, in the Chinese media.

The ban order, which applies to newspapers, publishers and website-owners, was issued by the General Administration of Press and Publication (GAPP), the People’s Daily reported.

According to the GAPP, abuse of foreign languages, particularly the use of half-English, half-Chinese terms, has seriously damaged the purity of the Chinese language and resulted in adverse social impact on the harmonious and healthy cultural environment.

The order said that with economic and social development, foreign languages are increasingly being used in all types of publications in China, including newspapers, periodicals and on the internet.

According to the order, the translation of foreign languages should be consistent with the basic translation principles and practices.

Violations of norms will attract punishment according to law.