Kind of a propaganda piece, as I’ve posted a bunch of articles and videos of how science and studies have been corrupted by megacorps who have taken control of higher education and the government. But this is telling of how they plan to limit “disinformation”, or really to make their actual disinformation the only thing you can find on platforms. The way things are advancing, real information might only become available on the darknet where you can still be anonymous speak the truth.
By Vuyile Madwantsi
China’s influencer law aims to curb misinformation while addressing free speech concerns.
Effective October 25, China’s new influencer law has sparked widespread debate across social media platforms.
At its core, this law mandates that anyone creating content on sensitive topics like medicine, law, education or finance must hold formal qualifications in those fields.
It’s a bold step by the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) to combat misinformation, but it has also sparked heated discussions worldwide about censorship, freedom of expression and the responsibility influencers carry in shaping public opinion.
As a lifestyle journalist, I find myself torn. On one hand, I’ve scrolled past countless videos where influencers confidently dish out advice on health, finance or legal matters.
Their words, whether well-meaning or not, can have real consequences, from spreading vaccine misinformation to promoting dangerous financial scams.
On the other hand, there’s a reason we love influencers: their relatability, creativity, and ability to connect with us in ways that institutions often fail to do. So, where should we draw the line between creative freedom and public responsibility?
What does the law say?
Under the new rules, influencers in China who wish to speak on regulated topics must provide proof of their expertise, whether that’s a degree, certification, or professional credentials.
According to Marketing 4ecommerce platforms like Douyin (China’s TikTok), Bilibili, and Weibo will also play a role, verifying influencer credentials and ensuring that content includes proper citations and disclaimers.
For example, creators must clearly state when information is sourced from studies or dramatised with AI-generated elements.
This regulation doesn’t stop at influencers. Platforms are now required to educate their users about their own responsibilities when sharing content.
Furthermore, the CAC has banned advertising for medical services and products, including supplements and health foods, to crack down on covert promotions disguised as educational content.
This isn’t happening in a vacuum. The move comes at a time when misinformation is a global concern. If the past few years are anything to go by, it’s how dangerous a viral opinion can be.
Think back to the Covid-19 pandemic fake cures, antivax rhetoric, and pseudoscience spread like wildfire, often amplified by influencers with millions of followers but no medical background.
A 2021 study by the Center for Countering Digital Hate found that just 12 individuals were responsible for 65% of anti-vaccine content shared on social media. It’s easy to see why China’s government might want to prevent such scenarios from recurring.
Still, some people say this law could hurt creativity and silence voices that question the norm. They worry that by controlling who can talk about certain topics, China might limit not only misinformation but also real debate and independent ideas.
This struggle between fighting fake news and protecting free speech is a challenge everywhere, not just in China.
What about the rest of the world?
While China’s law is one of the most stringent, according to online reports, it’s not the only example of governments stepping in to regulate influencers.
Spain, for example, introduced its own “Influencer Law” in 2024, which requires high-profile creators earning over €300,000 annually or with more than 1 million followers to register and adhere to strict advertising guidelines.
Similarly, platforms like YouTube and Instagram have implemented policies to label paid promotions and combat misinformation, though enforcement is often inconsistent.
The new regulations stipulate that influencers wishing to discuss regulated topics must provide proof of their qualifications, whether through a degree, certification, or professional credentials.
Even Google has its own version of regulation. Content categorised under “Your Money or Your Life” (YMYL), which includes topics like health, finance, and legal advice, is subject to stricter scrutiny.
Google evaluates such content using its EEAT (Experience, Expertise, Authority, and Trustworthiness) framework, favouring creators who can demonstrate credible expertise. It’s a reminder that the digital world is already moving towards holding creators accountable for their influence.
As consumers of content, we live in a paradox. We crave authenticity and creativity from influencers, yet we also expect them to be trustworthy and informed.
When an influencer blurs the line between opinion and expertise, the consequences can be serious.
A poorly researched financial tip could wipe out someone’s savings. A viral health hack could lead to harm. The stakes are high, and many argue that it’s time for influencers to take their responsibility more seriously.
But does regulation have to come at the expense of creative freedom? China’s law, for all its good intentions, raises uncomfortable questions.
Who gets to decide what qualifies as “expertise”? What happens to creators who challenge mainstream narratives but lack formal credentials? And could such laws become a slippery slope toward silencing dissenting voices?