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China rolls out strict licensing system for all online shows, tightening control over world’s biggest internet market
- The National Radio and Television Administration will implement strict licensing rules for online shows from Wednesday
- This development reflects Beijing’s intention to tighten its grip on cyberspace, while directing internet firms to root out harmful and inappropriate content
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China’s broadcasting regulator will implement strict licensing rules for online shows from Wednesday, deepening efforts by the government to monitor, review and clean up content in the world’s biggest internet market.
The National Radio and Television Administration (NRTA) will require all online films and shows to obtain a broadcasting licence before these can be made available to the public. It puts this segment of the internet market to the same level as China’s film industry, which is subject to some of the toughest censorship in the world.
“The purpose of this rule is to prevent the internet platform from becoming a place where disqualified content can circulate without regulation,” NRTA’s deputy head Li Jingsheng told state television broadcaster China Central Television on Tuesday. “Content creators will feel a stronger social responsibility … [and] sense of mission to promote Chinese culture.”
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This licensing requirement is expected to add a new layer of uncertainty for all studios and distributors that cater to China’s vast online audience.
03:34
Inside a Chinese internet censorship centre
Inside a Chinese internet censorship centre
This latest development reflects Beijing’s intention to tighten its grip on cyberspace, while directing internet companies to root out content that fails to fit the values that the government endorses.
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