According to several media sources, China has established a new rule requiring influencers to have a degree in the subjects they cover in their material. According to the guideline, influencers who wish to talk about "serious" subjects like money, health, medicine, law, or education must present documentation of their necessary professional qualifications.
According to reports, the rule was implemented to lessen false information on the internet and went into force on October 25. According to Daily Mail, the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) has also outlawed advertising for medical goods and services. The new regulation may represent a paradigm change in the way China's influencer culture operates.
Before producing social media content on delicate subjects like medical, law, education, and finance, influencers in China are now required by law to demonstrate their formal qualifications.
According to reports, the new regulation has generated controversy online and spurred worries that it would restrict free speech and hinder creativity. The Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) defended the regulation, stating that it was implemented to shield people from harmful advice and deceptive content found online.
Before publishing content on those restricted areas, influencers must possess a university degree, accredited training, a license, or a certification. These rules apply to influencers on popular Chinese platforms including Weibo, Bilibili, and Douyin, which is China's version of TikTok.
In addition to influencers, sites like Bilibili, Weibo, and Douyin the Chinese equivalent of TikTok will need to confirm the credentials of the artists on their platform and make sure that the video being shared includes the appropriate disclaimers and citations.
Influencers must make it obvious when posting content on Chinese social media platforms whether it is AI generated or if it contains references. When information is taken from research or when AI generated content is used in videos, content producers must make this apparent. In order to stop clandestine promotions masquerading as "educational" information, the CAC has also outlawed advertising for health foods, supplements, and medical products.
Additionally, when sharing content online, people need to be conscious of their obligations. Additionally, advertisements for health foods, vitamins, and medical products are prohibited by the CAC. The goal of the action is to end covert promotions disguised as "educational" content. According to Morocco News, these modifications are intended to increase internet responsibility and stop deceptive or covert advertising.
Many have applauded the ruling, pointing out that it will enable users to view informed material on platforms. Some of them contend that in order to avoid spreading false information, only individuals with the necessary credentials should be permitted to speak and debate specific topics.
One Weibo user said, "It's about time people with real expertise led the conversation." Others, however, pointed out that the new regulation will limit independent voices and critical discourse on social media, so restricting freedom of speech. A Beijing based designer posted on Weibo, "Next thing you know, we'll need a license to post opinions." They claim that the law will give authorities too much authority to choose who qualifies as a "specialist."
