Sony has postponed plans to launch its PlayStation 4 (PS4) games console in China, amid reports the company has been stalled by “prolonged negotiations” with Chinese authorities.

According to a report by Reuters, Sony has confirmed that “various factors” have caused the brand to push back its 11 January launch date for PS4 in China. A new sales date is yet to be confirmed.

China had prohibited foreign games consoles from being sold since 2000, claiming they adversely effected mental health, but announced it would lift the ban in January. Microsoft moved first, launching its Xbox One console in September.

Sony had hoped to become the latest player to tap into the Chinese gaming community with its PS4 and PlayStation Vita consoles, with Sony Computer Entertainment CEO Andrew House stating the market has “great potential”.

Sony said it had teamed up with more than 70 third party software developers and publishers to create games for Chinese audiences, with PS4 set to be priced at 2,899 RMB ($468) and PlayStation Vita costing 1,299 RMB ($209).