Provisions on the Management of Algorithmic Recommendations in Internet Information Services
These provisions regulate the use of algorithmic recommendation technology in internet information services within mainland China. They establish requirements for service providers to uphold mainstream values, protect user rights, manage information security, and comply with filing and security assessment obligations. The regulations are issued jointly by multiple Chinese state departments to promote healthy industry development and safeguard national security and public interests.
Summary and content fields are drawn from the document text and are pending editorial review.
Who issued it
Who it governs
Internet information service providers and algorithmic recommendation developers operating in China who must comply with security, transparency, and user protection obligations.
What the document contains
The provisions cover the use of algorithmic recommendation technology to provide internet information services within China. They address information security management, user rights protections including opt-out mechanisms, protections for vulnerable groups such as minors and seniors, algorithmic filing requirements, and regulatory oversight by state departments.
Detailed technical source code disclosure standards and specific monetary fine amounts within the text itself are not stated, deferring largely to existing laws and administrative regulations.
- Algorithmic recommendation service providers must adhere to mainstream values, promote positive energy, and prevent the transmission of illegal or negative content.
- Providers are required to implement primary responsibility for algorithm security, including periodic security assessments and record filings for services with public opinion properties.
- Users must be informed about algorithmic recommendation services and provided with options to close the service or opt out of targeted characteristics.
- Special protections are mandated for minors and seniors, including prohibitions on inducing addiction and requirements for senior-friendly smart services.
- Unfair competition, fake accounts, traffic manipulation, and price discrimination based on user traits through algorithms are strictly prohibited.
· Chapter I: General Provisions · Chapter II: Regulation of Information Services · Chapter III: Protection of User's Rights and Interests · Chapter IV: Oversight and Management · Chapter V: Legal Responsibility
How it scores
Each score is backed by a quote verified against the document text. Editorial review has not yet confirmed them.
Accountability
4/5Clear responsibility for AI outcomes
The providers of algorithmic recommendation services shall implement primary responsibility for algorithm security, establish and complete management systems and technical measures
Chapter II, Article 7
screening score · 2026-10-23
Fairness
4/5Non-discrimination and equitable treatment
must not use algorithms to unreasonably differentiate terms of transaction prices or other transaction conditions, or carry out other unlawful conduct, based on consumers' preferences, transaction habits, or other traits
Chapter III, Article 21
screening score · 2026-10-23
Human Dignity
3/5Respect for the inherent worth of persons
When the providers of algorithmic recommendation services provide seniors with services, they shall safeguard the rights and interests lawfully enjoyed by the seniors, fully consider the needs of seniors in travel, seeking medical care, spending, and handling affairs
Chapter III, Article 19
screening score · 2026-10-23
Human Oversight
4/5Humans remain in control of consequential decisions
establish and improve mechanisms for manual intervention and users' independent selections
Chapter II, Article 11
screening score · 2026-10-23
Transparency
4/5Openness about how AI systems work and are used
The providers of algorithmic recommendation services shall inform users in a conspicuous fashion of the circumstances of the algorithmic recommendation services provided, and display the algorithmic recommendation services' basic principles, intended purposes, main operation mechanisms, and so forth in an appropriate manner.
Chapter III, Article 16
screening score · 2026-10-23
Enforcement
4/5Consequences and compliance mechanisms with real force
In conjunction with relevant departments such as for telecommunications, public security, and market regulation, the cybersecurity and informatization departments are to carry out security assessments and oversight inspections efforts on algorithmic recommendation services in accordance with law
Chapter IV, Article 28
screening score · 2026-10-23
Impact Assessment
4/5Required assessment of an AI system's risks/impacts before or during use
The providers of algorithmic recommendation services shall periodically check, assess, and verify algorithm mechanisms, models, data, and outcomes
Chapter II, Article 8
screening score · 2026-10-23