China now requires influencers to hold a degree in the topics they discuss

China’s New Influencer Law: Degrees Now Required for Sensitive Topics

In a sweeping move to combat misinformation and tighten control over online discourse, China has enacted a new law requiring social media influencers to hold formal qualifications in the subjects they discuss, particularly when those subjects are deemed sensitive.

This regulation, which came into effect on October 25, 2025, mandates that content creators who speak on topics such as medicine, law, education, and finance must possess a relevant degree, professional license, or certification.

The law is enforced by the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC), which has positioned the policy as a safeguard against false or harmful advice proliferating online.

Under the new framework, platforms like Douyin (China’s version of TikTok), Bilibili, and Weibo are now responsible for verifying the credentials of influencers who post content in regulated domains.

These platforms must ensure that creators provide citations for their claims and clearly disclose when content includes AI-generated material or references academic studies. In addition to credential verification, platforms are tasked with educating users about their responsibilities when sharing content, reinforcing a broader push for digital literacy and accountability.

The law also includes a ban on advertising for medical products, supplements, and health foods within influencer content. This measure aims to prevent covert promotions disguised as educational material, a tactic that has become increasingly common in China’s booming influencer economy. By eliminating these hidden ads, regulators hope to reduce the risk of consumers being misled by unqualified individuals posing as experts.

Reactions to the law have been mixed. Supporters argue that it is a necessary step to ensure that public discourse on critical issues is informed and trustworthy. They believe that only professionals with verified expertise should be allowed to guide public opinion on matters that could affect health, financial stability, or legal outcomes. Critics, however, warn that the law could stifle creativity and suppress freedom of expression.

By narrowly defining “expertise,” they argue, the government may gain excessive power to silence dissenting voices or alternative perspectives that challenge official narratives.

Concerns have also been raised about the potential for overreach. Some fear that the law could be used to marginalize independent thinkers or grassroots educators who lack formal credentials but possess valuable insights.

Others worry that the requirement for degrees may disproportionately affect younger or less privileged creators who rely on social media platforms for income and influence.

Despite the controversy, the law reflects China’s broader strategy of regulating its digital ecosystem with increasing precision. It underscores the government’s commitment to curbing misinformation while reinforcing ideological control over online spaces.

Whether this approach will lead to a more informed public or simply a more restricted one remains a subject of global debate.