Asian country regulates online streaming on social media

intern

December 20, 2016 12:59 PM

A statement said online platforms are also prohibited from offering access to Weibo or WeChat accounts that defy regulations.

A picture illustration shows a WeChat app icon in Beijing, December 5, 2013.

China’s press and publication regulator on Tuesday ordered social media platforms featuring video and audio programmes to obtain licenses.

The State Administration of Press, Publication, Radio, Film and Television (SAPPRFT) have recently issued a document strengthening the regulation of video and audio programmess on social media platforms.

“If organisations and individuals operate online streaming services on Weibo or WeChat without licenses, the social media platforms should be responsible for the content.

“Platforms must monitor if content is suitable according to various requirements for managing video and audio programs,’’ SAPPRFT noted.

It added that the scope of content cannot exceed the limit specified in the license issued to platforms.

It said that online platforms are also prohibited from offering access to Weibo or WeChat accounts that defy regulations.

“In addition, films and TV series circulated on social media platforms must obtain licenses for public airing.

“Social media platforms are not allowed to repost user-generated video and audio programmes featuring political news,’’ it stressed.

intern