China Mandates Professional Qualification for Social Media Influencers on Sensitive Topics

China has implemented strict new regulations requiring social media influencers to provide verifiable proof of their professional qualifications before they are permitted to discuss sensitive topics such as medicine, finance, law, or education.

This move is part of broader efforts by the government to curb the spread of misinformation and tighten its control over content shared on its technology platforms.

Under the new rules, influencers must demonstrate formal training, a relevant degree, or verified expertise directly to the social media platforms they use.

Platforms like Douyin, Weibo, and Bilibili are now responsible for checking and verifying the credentials of their high-profile content creators.

The primary goal is to ensure that advice in sensitive, professional areas comes from certified experts.

Failure to comply with these qualification requirements can lead to severe penalties for influencers, including account suspension, permanent closure, or fines of up to 100,000 yuan approximately $14,000 USD. These stringent measures signal China’s determination to regulate online discourse and enhance the credibility of information available to the public.