China’s broadcasting regulator says it will ban livestreaming of video games without approval, according to an official notice published on Friday.
The National Radio and Television Administration said the move was designed to eliminate “online live broadcast chaos”, as well as teenagers’ addiction to games.
“It is urgent to take effective measures to strictly regulate them,” the regulator said in a statement.
In accordance with the Law on the Protection of Minors, “all kinds of online audio-visual programs such as online film and television dramas, online variety shows, online live broadcasts and short videos are not allowed to broadcast online games that have not been approved”.
The regulator said live broadcast platforms or online platforms that carry out approved videogame streaming must set up anti-addiction mechanisms, ensure users are registered under their real identities, and limit play for minors.
The new rules also forbid appearances on livestreams by those “who have an incorrect political position”.
- George Russell
READ MORE:
How China Videogame Firms Toed Line to End Licence Freeze
China’s Video Game Studios Face Long March – Caixin Global
Sony To Buy ‘Destiny’ Videogame Developer Bungie For $3.6bn
