The Chinese government has rolled out new regulations mandating that social media influencers must hold an academic degree or formal qualification in any subject they discuss online a move aimed at tightening control over digital content and curbing misinformation.
According to a report by the Daily Mail, the new rule is part of Beijing’s ongoing effort to enforce stricter oversight of China’s fast-growing influencer economy, where millions of content creators use platforms such as Weibo, Douyin (TikTok’s Chinese version), and Bilibili to reach massive audiences.
Under the new policy, influencers who produce educational or expert-related content including topics like law, medicine, economics, or technology will now be required to prove their academic credentials before being allowed to post or livestream about those subjects.
Authorities say the measure is intended to ensure accuracy, professionalism, and “social responsibility” in online discussions. However, critics have described it as another step toward tightening state control over freedom of speech and online expression.
The rules also extend to foreign influencers operating within China, who must comply with the same standards or risk having their accounts suspended or permanently banned.
Observers note that this is the latest in a series of digital regulations under President Xi Jinping’s administration, which has increasingly sought to regulate online discourse, especially content that could challenge government narratives or spread “unverified information.”
While some citizens welcome the policy as a way to curb fake news and misinformation, others argue that it may suppress independent voices and limit the diversity of perspectives on social media.
🔗 Source: Daily Mail (UK)
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