China cracks down on online stealth marketing

Tencent, other platforms adapt to Beijing's latest tech regulation

20230605 China apps SXM2023060400005112

New Chinese regulations stipulate that online advertisements have to be clearly labeled as ads. (Photo by Takashi Kawakami)

TAKASHI KAWAKAMI, Nikkei staff writer

GUANGZHOU -- China has tightened restrictions on how companies market products and services to the country's vast online population, in a move that could have effects on corporate social medial campaigns.

A ban on stealth marketing -- advertising in which consumers do not realize they are viewing or interacting with an ad -- went into force last month. Examples include product placement, compensated reviews or partnerships with online content creators.

Sponsored Content

About Sponsored ContentThis content was commissioned by Nikkei's Global Business Bureau.