The China Project, US-Based Media Outlet Covering China, Shuts Down Due to Funding Shortfalls and "Politically-Motivated Attacks"

Political Tensions and Accusations of Biased Coverage Contribute to Financial Challenges and Ultimate Closure of The China Project, Displaying the Complexity of Providing Balanced Reporting Amid US-China Relations Strain

• The China Project, a US-based media organization covering China, announced its closure due to financial issues and politically induced challenges. This platform emerged as a significant source of news and information for global China watchers since its launch in 2016.
• The media outlet was accused of serving both the Chinese and US governments, posing legal and reputational challenges that impeded attracting investors, advertisers, and sponsors. Notable US lawmakers Marco Rubio and Chris Smith alleged last year that the company was influenced by the Chinese government.
• In addition to accusations from US lawmakers, The China Project faced criticism from China itself. The nationalist Chinese tabloid, the Global Times, designated the platform as a 'West-backed anti-China organization' attempting to smear China's image through a public opinion war.
• The China Project attempted to stay neutral and provide 'balanced' reporting amid the intense rivalry between the United States and China. Its closure illustrates the difficulty of maintaining impartial coverage and navigating geopolitical tensions.
• Despite a growth in their subscription offerings and initial backing from investors, the company faced a sharp decline in investor interest over the last six months amid economic and geopolitical headwinds. Finally, funding shortfalls have forced the closure, but some of the company’s initiatives and projects might survive beyond this decision.

4 Articles

South China Morning Post Al Jazeera CNA Reuters