As the digital landscape continues to evolve, an increasing number of individuals are relying on social media to stay informed about current events and trending topics, with influencers often leading the charge in shaping public discourse.
From selecting the latest fashion trends to choosing a new diet, influencers have become a popular source for the information people seek.
Despite the convenience of their insights, it can be challenging to discern fact from opinion—a dilemma one country has decided to address decisively.
To combat the spread of harmful trends and myths presented as facts, this nation has implemented a measure aimed at curbing misinformation. Influencers are now required to possess verified credentials before offering advice on certain subjects.
The new regulations, effective from October 25, stipulate that Chinese influencers can only discuss topics like medicine, law, education, or finance if they can demonstrate they possess the pertinent professional qualifications or degrees.
Platforms such as Douyin, Weibo, and Bilibili are reportedly responsible for verifying these qualifications under the new directives.
Violators of these rules face more than just a warning. Platforms that permit such content may incur fines of ¥100,000 ($14,000), which may be passed down to the users themselves.
Additionally, the Cyberspace Administration of China has introduced new advertising rules to curtail the promotion of medical products, like supplements and health foods, preventing them from being misrepresented as educational content.
The new regulations have sparked debate on social media, with some individuals appreciating the move as a measure to safeguard public safety, while others worry it could impede free expression.
“You can’t practice medicine, psychology, physio etc, without a license, so I’m not sure why they were allowed to ‘practice online’ in the first place,” one user commented in favor of the regulations.
Another user supported the guidelines, saying: “China just set a new global standard no degree, no debate. While the West drowns in misinformation, China’s making sure knowledge comes with responsibility.”
A third user remarked: “I support this rule. Too many discussions on complex topics lack even the most basic logical foundation.”
However, the changes are not without criticism, as some users believe the regulations serve as a form of censorship controlling who can participate in public dialogue.
“China’s new law for influencers is a genius move – finally, some accountability for the noise these people make. But let’s be real, it’s also a clever way to silence dissenting voices. Who gets to decide what’s ‘accurate’ or ‘sensitive’ anyway,” one skeptic pointed out.
Another user expressed a similar concern, saying: “By restricting serious discussions to degree-holders, the government can limit who shapes public opinion on sensitive issues – ensuring that only ‘qualified’ or state-approved voices influence citizens.
“Officially they claimed that this restriction leads to stop false information about economy, health and political commentary. But this decision will help Chinese government to control narrative and gives authorities more power and control on influencers.”