New China law fines influencers if they discuss ‘serious’ topics without a degree

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Starting October 25th, China is requiring online influencers to prove they have the proper credentials before they share information about potentially sensitive areas like healthcare, legal matters, schooling, or personal finance.

China’s Cyberspace Administration has implemented new rules requiring platforms like Douyin, Bilibili, and Weibo to verify the identities of content creators before publishing their work.

People creating content about professional fields like law or medicine must demonstrate their qualifications with a license, degree, or certificate. Those who offer advice on these sensitive topics without proper credentials could be fined up to 100,000 yuan – approximately $14,000 US dollars.

Content must show its sources

Influencers need to always share the sources for any research or data they mention in their videos. They also have to clearly mark any content that was created using artificial intelligence. Social media platforms are being asked to teach users how to share information responsibly as these changes are introduced.

New rules now restrict advertising for health products. Companies can’t promote medical items, supplements, or health foods by disguising ads as educational information.

Those who support the law believe it will improve the quality of information available on key topics. However, some worry that restricting who can discuss these issues could stifle public debate.

This shift is happening because online influencers are increasingly competing with traditional experts to gain people’s trust and attention.

In October 2025, a speech by Chinese social media personality Wu Qi became widely popular online. He shared his unusual career journey – how he transitioned from a video game programmer to a spokesperson working with therapy dogs.

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2025-10-28 22:18