China is considering new restrictions for the live-streaming industry, continuing with its crackdown of the entertainment industry and control over the content young people are exposed to.
In recent years, live-streaming has exploded in China, as more people now have access to mobile internet and are looking for fresh content. In 2020, the China Association for Performing Arts estimated the value of the live-steaming industry at $30 billion.
However, instead of the government supporting the industry, it is planning restrictions.
According to The Wall Street Journal, authorities in China are drafting new restrictions for the live-streaming industry. They plan to limit the amount of tips content creators and influencers can receive in a day.
Some live-streamers earn from commissions for advertising products. But for most, the primary source of income is virtual gifts and tips. The more popular ones can earn tens of thousands in tips in a day.
An anonymous government official told the WSJ that authorities were considering a daily tipping limit of 10,000 yuan (approximately $1,500).
Apparently, the purpose of the restrictions is to dissuade the young population from aspiring to be live-streamers.
The planned restrictions are in line with the Chinese government’s crack down on the entertainment industry in the past year.
The government clamped down on celebrity fan clubs and even put a time limit on the amount of time kids can spend playing games.
The restrictions are likely going to hurt live-streamers and online platforms whose revenue is dependent on live-streaming.
