China has brought a strict new rule for social media creators that has surprised many across the world. From 25 October 2025, influencers in China must show formal qualifications if they speak about topics such as health, law, education or finance. They need a degree, a licence or a certificate to offer expert advice online. China says this rule will stop untrained creators from spreading unsafe or misleading information. Supporters believe it will increase trust and protect people from harmful advice. Critics say it may reduce independent voices and limit free expression. Many also feel that knowledge does not always come from degrees, as some creators learn from real experience, research or on-ground work.
Why India Is Watching Closely
India has one of the world’s largest social-media audiences. Platforms like YouTube, Instagram and short-video apps reach crores of people every day. Many Indians look to creators for fitness, wellness, home remedies, savings, exam tips, legal guidance and career advice. Some creators gain huge trust despite having no formal training, which gives online content a strong influence over public behaviour.
India has already seen how fast unsafe information spreads. During COVID-19, “miracle” cures and home remedies went viral, and many people followed online tips instead of medical advice. Even today, health videos promising quick results often lack scientific proof, and experts warn they can delay proper treatment.
Financial content is another concern. Many creators share investment and trading tips without clearly stating if the content is sponsored or promotional. First-time investors may treat this as expert advice and risk losing money. Legal content can also mislead, as videos often oversimplify serious matters that depend on specific case details, leading to poor decisions on issues like property or disputes.
If India Ever Tried Rules Like China
India’s creator culture is very different from China’s. Influencers here belong to metros, small towns and rural areas. Many share tips based on personal experience or self-learning rather than formal education. A strict rule demanding degrees could impact this diversity. Because of this, experts say India may not be able to copy China’s rule directly.
If India considers any regulation, a softer and practical approach may suit the country better. Instead of blocking creators without degrees, the focus could be on transparency. Viewers should be able to clearly understand whether a creator is trained or not.
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Another idea often discussed is a voluntary verification system for creators who want to show their qualifications. Those with degrees or certificates in fields such as health, finance, education or law could be labelled as verified professionals. This would help audiences identify expert content more easily, without stopping others from sharing knowledge.
Under such a model, general lifestyle content would remain open and free. Travel, food, fashion, culture, entertainment and daily life tips would not need any qualifications. Only areas where safety, money or rights are involved may require more clarity. This approach aims to protect viewers while allowing creativity and diverse voices to grow.
How This Could Impact India’s Creator Economy
A strict rule that demands qualifications for expert content could limit opportunities. Some creators worry that too many rules may reduce fresh content ideas and discourage new creators. They fear that strict checks could make the internet feel controlled.
If India ever discusses introducing rules for influencers, the main challenge will be to balance safety with freedom. The country will need to protect viewers from harmful advice while keeping the digital space open for learning, creativity and relatable content from all corners of India.