China is stepping up regulation of micro-dramas, with new measures introduced on 2 May targeting content that often features rich–poor romance storylines and dramatic social mobility plots.
The move focuses on a fast-growing short-form video sector that has attracted large audiences and revenue with limited oversight. Authorities aim to restrict content considered inappropriate and bring the industry under closer regulation.
Micro-dramas are short, vertically filmed series, with episodes typically lasting one to three minutes. They are produced at low cost with quick turnaround times and widely distributed on platforms such as Douyin, Kuaishou, Bilibili, and Tencent QQ
These shows often feature exaggerated storylines, including plots where wealthy individuals fall in love with people from poorer backgrounds. Authorities say such content can promote unrealistic ideas about love, wealth, and social mobility.
Officials have also warned producers against storylines that encourage marriage for wealth, emphasize luxury lifestyles, or focus heavily on family conflict.
While the official notice did not specify penalties for violations, current regulations require platforms to remove content that does not meet approval standards, while producers must obtain licenses before distribution.
Industry Faces Removals and New Licensing Rules
Authorities have steadily increased enforcement across the sector.
In February 2025, regulators introduced a requirement for all micro-dramas to obtain distribution permits before being released online. Platforms are not allowed to host or promote content without official approval.
The policy forms part of broader efforts to guide online content and promote state-backed values.
Between late 2022 and early 2023, regulators removed more than 25,000 micro-dramas, covering nearly 1.4 million episodes, for violations including explicit, violent, or low-quality content.
In early 2024, platforms such as Douyin and Kuaishou also removed multiple titles and hundreds of related clips for breaching content standards.
The new licensing system signals tighter long-term oversight of one of China’s fastest-growing entertainment sectors, with authorities placing greater focus on both scale and content.


