China to Label AI Content Starting September

New AI Regulations in China

China’s internet regulator, the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC), has announced that all AI-generated content will require explicit labels. This initiative aims to ensure transparency and reduce the spread of misinformation. Starting September 1, 2025, AI text, audio, video, images, and even virtual scenes must be clearly marked, with labels visible to audiences and embedded in metadata.

Scope of the AI Content Labeling Policy

The new regulations will affect all service providers, including AI Large Language Models (LLMs). These providers must add explicit labels to all generated and synthesized content, covering various data types. App stores are also required to verify that hosted apps comply with these regulations.

Exemptions and User Responsibilities

Users can request unlabeled AI-generated content for “social concerns and industrial needs.” However, the generating app must reiterate this requirement and log the information for traceability. The responsibility for adding AI-generated labels and metadata falls on the end-user.

Prohibitions and Penalties

The CAC prohibits the malicious removal, tampering, forgery, or concealment of AI labels, including providing tools to carry out these actions. Adding AI identifiers to human-created data is also forbidden. While specific punishments are not yet prescribed, violators may face legal action.

Global Context and Impact

This initiative follows similar efforts, such as the EU’s Artificial Intelligence Act, to control the development and use of AI technologies. By clearly marking artificially generated content, China aims to reduce misinformation and help users distinguish between real and machine-generated content. For companies seeking to navigate these changes, consider leveraging Custom Software Development to ensure compliance and innovation.

The Broader Implications

China’s move to enforce clear flagging of AI-generated content underscores a growing global trend towards regulating AI technologies. This policy will help in reducing the potential for confusion and misinformation among internet users. Companies like Evotek are closely monitoring these developments to adapt their strategies and remain compliant.

Want to explore how these regulations might affect your business? Contact us today for a consultation!