China Prevents Online Comments That Damage Businesses And Entrepreneurs' Image

China will take firm action against online comments that harm businesses and entrepreneurs. (photo: doc. Pixabay)

JAKARTA - China will take firm action against online comments that harm businesses and entrepreneurs in the country, the internet regulator said in a statement on Tuesday, March 22. This move is part of an official campaign to support the private sector and promote economic growth.

"Fake news about companies and entrepreneurs, especially private companies and private entrepreneurs, appears from time to time, damaging the company's brand image," said Shen Yue, an official from the China Cyberspace Administration, while answering questions at a press briefing.

Shen said that fake news also affected the company's normal production and operations, causing economic losses.

"Regulators will "firmly crack down on online activities that violate the law and damage the image and reputation of companies and entrepreneurs, even seeking illegal profits from them," Shen said, quoted by Reuters.

The operation will aim to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of companies and entrepreneurs in cyberspace, as well as control the "online chaos for creating and spreading fake news".

The authorities will swiftly deal with false information related to companies in accordance with laws and regulations, and deal with online violations involving employers.

Chinese leaders have in recent weeks given guarantees to private companies in a bid to bolster their confidence after a two-year crackdown on regulations.

Alibaba founder Jack Ma has returned to China after living abroad for more than a year in what was seen as a reflection of the gloomy mood of private business, and is reportedly finally pushing the newly appointed prime minister to contact the private sector.

China's new Premier, Li Qiang, in his first press conference earlier this month, tried to give reassurance to the private sector, saying that the environment for business entrepreneurship would improve and that equal treatment would be given to all types of companies.

Li said that some "untrue" comments in society about private companies had made entrepreneurs feel anxious.