The World Trade Organization (WTO) on Tuesday decided to set up an expert panel to investigate US allegations that China limits imports of movies, DVDs, music and certain publications.

The United States has complained to the WTO that China's certain measures constituted restrictions to the imports of publications and audiovisual entertainment products.

But China stresses that it has provided ample market access to foreign publications, films and audiovisual products, and all its measures are in compliance with WTO regulations.

The panel decision was automatically made at a WTO Dispute Settlement Body (DSB) meeting on Tuesday since it was the second time that the United States had requested such a panel.

Washington's first panel request in October was blocked by China according to related WTO rules.

It usually takes at least one year before a final panel report could be issued and adopted by the WTO DSB.