On May 29, 2026, China issued the Regulations on Internet Content Multi-Channel Network Distribution Services (the “MCN Regulations”), which will come into effect on September 1, 2026. The MCN Regulations apply to internet content multi-channel network distribution service providers (“MCNs”) and platform internet service providers that host MCNs in China (“Platforms”). Certain of the key requirements of the MCN Regulations are detailed below.

Registration and Filing Requirements

Under the MCN Regulations, MCNs not currently registered must register with the provincial cyberspace administration as business entities with "Internet information content multi-channel network distribution service" in their business scope, and those MCNs currently registered must amend their business scope accordingly within 30 days of the MCN Regulations taking effect. In addition, Platforms also have filing obligations. Before onboarding an MCN, a Platform must first verify the MCN’s qualifications before allowing onboarding. Following such, Platforms must then file relevant MCN onboarding information with the provincial cyberspace administration within 30 working days​ of onboarding and within 30 working days following any subsequent change to such information.

MCN Obligations

MCNs have obligations under the MCN Regulations regarding the content distributed. For example, an MCN must appoint a content management lead and maintain a content team, sign agreements with creators that clarify information security responsibilities, and promptly suspend or terminate services to creators who violate laws or Platform rules and notify Platforms of the same. In addition, MCNs and creators are prohibited from certain activities, including:

• inciting hatred, group antagonism or regional discrimination;
• exploiting minors or persons with disabilities to generate profit in ways that harm their well-being or dignity;
• faking metrics​ such as views, likes, followers and ratings;
• glorifying crime or disasters; and
• organizing, participating in, or abetting cyberbullying.

MCNs also have other obligations with respect to, for example, minor protection, which can involve age verification of users and/or parental or guardian consent, and livestream marketing, which requires, amongst other things, mechanisms for product selection and compliance review.