In China, the expected has happened: The State Administration of Radio Film and Television (SARFT) has announced the results of its inspection on numerous online video sites, which was carried out in the 3-month period ending March 20, 2008. SARFT said they found a total of 62 sites in violation of the recently announced rules regulating China’s online video sites. The two most common violations are operation without a license and providing illegal content. As a result, SARFT will force closure of video services on 30 sites while issuing warning notices to 32 sites. Tudou, one of China’s largest video-sharing sites was on the warning list. The Chinese language notice is here.
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Chinaview: They were punished for broadcasting obscene, fear-inspiring or violent content or programs that might endanger national security and interests, or for offering such services without the required qualifications or certificates, the circular said. Under new regulations that took effect on Jan. 31, 2008, website operators must get a license before airing audio and video content.