China Leads with World’s First Mandatory AI Content Labeling Law
On September 1, 2025, China officially implemented groundbreaking regulations requiring all AI-generated content to carry explicit or implicit labels. This marks the world’s first mandatory national standard for AI content identification. The comprehensive framework was jointly issued by four government bodies, including the Cyberspace Administration of China.
The regulations mandate both visible labels for users and embedded metadata watermarks for all AI-generated content such as text, images, audio, video, and virtual content. Social media platforms like WeChat, Douyin, and Weibo have quickly implemented compliance measures. These measures allow users to flag unlabeled AI content while using automated detection systems.
This enforcement is part of China’s broader AI governance strategy. Authorities reported the removal of over 960,000 pieces of illegal AI-generated content and handling 3,500 problematic AI products earlier in 2025. With these regulations, China positions itself ahead of other regions in AI content transparency. It has more comprehensive requirements than the EU’s AI Act or voluntary U.S. policies.
Source: CGTN News