BBC Cites Record Radio Audience

The BBC says its World Service now attracts 163 million weekly radio listeners and calls that a record for the broadcaster.
Officials say the number is an increase of 14 million over last year. “The new figure equates to around 50% more listeners than any comparable international broadcaster,” it stated, and breaks its 2001 record of 153 million. The organization airs 33 language services and bases its audience estimates on various surveys.
The broadcaster touted its expanded FM services: “Over 10 million extra listeners are listening on the higher-quality audibility of FM through partner stations and the BBC’s own relays around the world,” it said. “BBC World Service is now available on high-quality FM sound in a record 150 capital cities out of a total of around 190, up from 145 last year.” At the same time, it said shortwave and MW listening also increased, “particularly in rural areas in parts of East Africa and Southeast Asia,” meaning Burma, India and Nepal.
National radio audiences for the BBC fell in Bangladesh and Pakistan, and the organization said it is seeking to develop more FM distribution in those countries.