To maintain a high level of services for the media, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has imposed a strict quota -- 5,600 for the written and photographic press, the same as that for the Athens 2004 and Sydney 2000 Games. For the broadcasting media, the Beijing Olympic Broadcasting Co will hold 4,000 accreditation cards and 12,000 will go to Right Holding Broadcasters.

However non-accredited media people from all around the world are also welcome to cover the Olympic Games. 2008 Beijing International Media Center (BIMC) is a major initiative by Beijing city government to assist many journalists coming from all over the world to cover the 2008 Olympic Games who do not hold IOC accreditation certificates.  

The center will provide some 10,000 non-accredited journalists from around the world with work areas, accommodation and many other services. It will also be an important platform for the host city to distribute Games-related news and showcase its unique cultural heritage and attractions.