In an effort to combat the growing problem of internet addiction among children and teenagers, Chinese authorities have introduced stringent new rules that restrict internet access for individuals under 18 years old. These measures, set to take effect from September 2, are among the most comprehensive in the world, aimed at managing young people’s smartphone and internet usage during specific hours.
The regulations, proposed by the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC), address the pressing need to protect the well-being and development of the younger generation in the face of increasing digital influence. Internet addiction has become a major concern, with concerns over its impact on mental health and academic performance.
According to the new rules, children under eight years old will be limited to a maximum of 40 minutes of mobile usage per day, while 16- and 17-year-olds will be allowed up to two hours of internet access daily. Additionally, all individuals under 18 will be prohibited from accessing the internet on their smartphones between 10 pm and 6 am.
The CAC aims to “improve the positive role of the internet, create a favourable network environment, prevent and intervene in minors’ internet addiction problems, and guide minors to form good internet use habits” through these regulations. While the restrictions are stringent, the CAC is allowing parents to bypass them if they choose to do so.
This move is part of China’s broader efforts to protect minors online and regulate the use of digital technology among young people. In recent years, Chinese authorities have been increasingly concerned about the potential risks posed by internet addiction and excessive smartphone usage. These regulations are seen as an important step towards addressing the issue proactively.
In 2021, China had already implemented measures to limit gaming time for children to combat addiction issues. The decision to freeze approvals for new games for nine months affected major companies like Tencent. With the introduction of these new internet rules, Beijing continues its regulatory clampdown on domestic tech giants, impacting several leading Chinese internet firms.
The new regulations have sparked a decline in the stocks of these firms, indicating the market’s concern about potential impacts on their revenues. However, analysts also argue that the short-term market reaction may not have lasting implications, as investors are already aware of the rising concerns over internet addiction.
Overall, China’s bold move to tackle youth internet addiction through strict regulations signifies its commitment to safeguarding the well-being of its younger population. As the country continues its efforts to create a balanced digital environment, these measures could pave the way for a healthier and more responsible internet usage culture among its youth.
