A milestone moment for the future of AM radio
China has taken a major step in modernizing its radio landscape. On July 29, 2025, the National Radio and Television Administration (NRTA) officially adopted Digital Radio Mondiale (DRM) as the national industry standard for domestic shortwave and medium-wave (AM) broadcasting.
The newly published specification, GY/T 423-2025 – Technical Specifications for Medium and Short-Wave Digital Sound Broadcasting, sets out the technical framework for DRM adoption across the country, marking a decisive move toward next-generation AM broadcasting.
What the New Standard Means
The NRTA’s new DRM standard supports multiple transmission modes and bandwidths, including:
Analog–digital simulcast and pure digital DRM modes
Advanced audio quality with xHE-AAC codec
Emergency Warning Functionality (EWF) for instant public alerts
Journaline interactive text services for additional information and multi-language support
This means broadcasters can upgrade without changing their AM frequencies, while listeners can enjoy FM-like sound quality and additional digital services — all from the same bands they already use.
Building on Years of Development
China has been gradually laying the groundwork for DRM adoption:
Since 2023, authorities have encouraged broadcasters to implement DRM and automakers to integrate DRM receivers into vehicles.
Public consultations in 2024 shaped nationwide standards for in-vehicle DRM reception.
Several DRM-capable shortwave transmitters are already in use for domestic coverage and international broadcasts via China Radio International.
Why This Matters
The move positions China as a leader in digital AM broadcasting, with benefits that include:
Clearer Audio: FM-like quality on AM bands
Richer Content: Data services, images, text, and multiple languages
Greater Resilience: Reliable emergency alerts via EWF
Seamless Transition: Broadcasters can modernize without overhauling infrastructure
In-Car Expansion: Automotive DRM adoption will extend reach and usability
A Global Step for DRM
For the international radio community, this decision reinforces DRM’s growing role as a robust, flexible, and future-proof standard. With China joining other adopters worldwide, listeners can expect enhanced content and improved reception across borders.
As DRM’s adoption accelerates, it’s another reminder that radio — in both its heritage and evolving forms — remains a vital, global medium.
Stay tuned to WRTH for updates on DRM and other developments shaping the future of global broadcasting.
One response to “China Adopts DRM Standard for Shortwave and Medium-Wave Broadcasting”
This is good news. I hope that, with this official decision, it will be possible to boost the production of DRM radio receivers in large quantities and at affordable prices. Currently, DRM receiver factories lack the funds to start the production line for DRM radio receivers, despite having the technology. And without funds to start a production line, the system will not be able to prosper. Perhaps the implementation of DRM in medium and short waves could make it possible for companies with the capacity to produce these receivers to receive sufficient funds, allowing them to do so at low prices from the very beginning. I hope so. Because having to contact the factory to place a minimum order of receivers does not guarantee the future of this technology, which is the only one that could save, in the short and medium term, the existence of medium and short waves, which are increasingly difficult to broadcast due to the exorbitant price of electricity.