MUMBAI: With an aim to develop China's paid market and control piracy, music label- Sony Music and Tencent announced their partnership on Tuesday. The partnership will enable internet giant Tencent to distribute Sony Music's catalogue in China.

Sony Music Entertainment, chairman and CEO, Edgar Berger said, "Sony Music is excited to partner with Tencent in this landmark deal. Through its advanced digital systems operations and huge customer base Tencent understands the amazing scope of the market for both Chinese and international artists. We share the vision that China can easily become within a relatively short period of time one of the world's largest music markets and look forward to developing greater consumer engagement and services."

Tencent senior executive VP, Downson Tong said, "We have had a relationship with Sony Music for many years, this is a step up, to develop the Chinese music market. The market in China is a evolving rapidly and through QQ's massive user base we can offer online and offline activity for Sony Music's entire roster of artists. Also, piracy is a concern, a closer partnership between content owners and Tencent will help combat that."

Sony Music's catalogue comprises artistes like Daft Punk, Bob Dylan, Adele, AC/DC and Pitbull among a number of other famous international acts. Tencent, which offers mass media, entertainment, internet and other services in China, did not disclose any financial details. The company will also promote Sony Music's performers on their social networking platform- QQ, which has more than 20 million monthly active users.

Recently, Tecent signed similar deals with Warner Music and South Korea's YG Entertainment.