MUMBAI: Believe Digital, the worldwide digital music distributor and service provider for independent artists and labels, has announced a strategic partnership with Tencent Holdings Limited, an Internet service provider for value added services in China. This partnership will allow online distribution of Believe’s catalogue in mainland China.

According to the agreement, Tencent will now be Believe Digital’s exclusive Chinese partner, enabling the company to distribute its repertoire of over 6 million songs through the QQ Music platform. It will also be to managing the sub-licensing business to legitimate local online music service providers in mainland China.

With Tencent’s expansive user base, the deal will be an ideal opportunity for Believe Digital to promote its independent artists in the Chinese market. Additionally, using QQ Music, the music distribution company will be able to increase its presence in China.

The partnership between Believe Digital and Tencent will help strengthening international cooperation on copyright protection and enforcement against infringement. It will also be a win-win for artists, record labels and will also enhance Tencent as an online music distributor.

Reportedly, Tencent will take appropriate action if necessary against illegal hosting and distribution of pirated Believe content in China.

Speaking on the deal, Believe Digital founder CEO Denis Ladegaillerie said, “Believe’s mission is to offer the best opportunities for independent labels and artists; we are therefore very proud to start this collaboration with one of the biggest players in China. It’s important for us to be proactive in building a real economic ecosystem for digital music in China, and to work hand-in-hand with Tencent to contribute to a fairer digital music landscape for independent music.”

Tencent Corporate vice president Cussion Pang added, “Tencent is dedicated to enforcing IP protection in the music industry in China. The partnership will further expand our music catalogue and we’re excited to connect Tencent’s huge user base to Believe’s artists, bringing user experience and enjoyment to a new level.”

QQ Music, Tencent’s digital music platform features over 15 million licensed songs. It has exclusive partnerships with companies like Sony Music, Warner Music Group, YG Entertainment and others in China.