Computer games are included in the cultural products that could potentially make it to the blacklist. (Photo : Reuters)
A new blacklisting system will soon deal with "harmful cultural products" in China, according to a Wednesday announcement by the Ministry of Culture, as cited by the Xinhua News Agency.
According to the statement, "cultural products" encompass live performances, visual arts, computer games, publications, films, TV shows, radio programs and other similar materials.
The blacklist is set to target content of questionable morals, such as pornography. The details will be made known via mass media and posted on the website of the ministry.
Applications for licenses or permits for the blacklisted products will no longer be allowed.
When those who have been involved in the production and distribution of blacklisted products have their business applications reviewed, there will be much tighter scrutiny against them.
In 2015, the ministry already demonstrated the blacklist by producing an initial list made up of 120 songs and 38 online animations. Website administrators were then ordered to remove these harmful cultural products from their websites or else they risk being punished by the government.
The ministry also has plans to blacklist businesses that operate without licenses two or more times, counterfeit or illegally obtain permits, as well as commit other offenses.
The policy is scheduled to be piloted in six provinces and three municipalities in China.
Once a legal person or chief executive of a firm has entered the blacklist, they will be banned from involvement in businesses of the same nature. Companies will also be excluded from competing for awards or bidding for government contracts.
The blacklisted firms' status will be reviewed after five years, which will determine if they deserve to be removed from the list.
Operators who will be blacklisted can appeal in case they disagree with the treatment.
