China Re-releases Draft Measures for Internet Information Services

The Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC), in coordination with the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) and the Ministry of Public Security (MPS), has released a revised draft of the "Measures for the Administration of Internet Information Services" for public comment. This updated version incorporates changes from the revised Cybersecurity Law and previous public feedback. The draft mandates that internet service providers adhere to the leadership of the Communist Party of China and socialist core values. It establishes a multi-departmental regulatory framework and sets strict licensing requirements for sensitive sectors such as news, finance, and religion. Public feedback is being accepted until August 2, 2026.

This regulation updates the legal framework for all internet services in China, formalizing strict real-name requirements and account management protocols that will impact both domestic providers and users.

The Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) has issued a revised draft of the "Measures for the Administration of Internet Information Services," marking a significant update to the foundational rules governing the country's digital ecosystem. The draft, released on July 16, 2026, is the result of inter-agency collaboration between the CAC, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), and the Ministry of Public Security (MPS). According to the draft, the regulation applies to all internet information services provided within the People's Republic of China. A central pillar of the new measures is the explicit requirement that internet services must adhere to the leadership of the Communist Party of China (CCP) and be guided by socialist core values. The draft aims to foster a "positive, healthy, and upwardly mobile" network ecology while maintaining national security and public interest. The regulatory framework is divided among several key authorities. The CAC is responsible for overall coordination and content supervision, while the MIIT oversees market access, network resources, and industry management. The MPS and state security organs are tasked with maintaining public order, protecting network security, and punishing illegal activities. Licensing remains a critical component of the proposed measures. Entities engaged in commercial internet services must obtain a telecommunications business permit from the MIIT. Notably, the draft introduces a provision where licenses may be revoked if a provider fails to conduct business for two consecutive years. Furthermore, services involving news, culture, publishing, education, religion, or finance must obtain specific approvals from relevant authorities before applying for general telecommunications permits. The draft also emphasizes technical and social responsibilities. Providers are encouraged to prioritize the use of IPv6 and must implement robust network and information security management systems. Personnel working in internet news services are specifically required to maintain "correct political directions" and professional ethics. The public has until August 2, 2026, to submit feedback via email or letter to the CAC's Bureau of Rule of Law.