China’s top internet regulator has issued a blanket ban on three categories of sexualized content in group live streams, declaring all “vulgar” behavior used to convince viewers to tip illegal.
From skimpy outfits to staged “fiery” moments to exaggerated moans, the Chinese group livestream format known as tuanbo is now under scrutiny. Authorities prohibited any sexually suggestive tactics intended to entice viewers to spend money.
In a regulation announced on November 26, the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) said that the group’s streamers are prohibited from using “vulgar content to solicit advice,” “Vulgar punishments to force a tip“O”Raunchy leaderboard aiming games.” According to Sixth Tone, the agency has already removed nine accounts under the new rules.
Tuanbo Its popularity has exploded on Chinese short-video platforms over the past year. Official data speaks of around 8,000 tuanbo theaters stream every day, up more than 20% from 2024. Industry revenue is expected to exceed 15 billion yuan ($2.1 billion) this year.
These live streams often involve scripted interactions like “PK” battles, where groups dance, compete, or perform scenarios to climb the leaderboard and attract virtual gifts.
Although the platforms have introduced restrictions Douyin they banned revealing clothing and excessive beauty filters in July and introduced anti-tipping measures in October. Sexualized content continued to thrive.
The new CAC rules expressly prohibit “vulgar punishments“, such as streamers patting each other on the thighs or buttocks, shocking each other with electrical devices, or performing daring acts to pressure viewers into giving gifts. The agency also banned “battles for the gift ranking”, where the audience competes to get the biggest tip, often shown through graphs of public spending or close-ups of the performers’ bodies.
Violators may face reduced visibility, room suspension, demonetization or permanent bans. Douyin reported to have penalized over 1,200 tuanbo account over the past year for vulgar content and has stopped working with 12 associated MCN companies.
Zheng Ning, director of the law school at China Communications University, told local media that some MCN companies deliberately design sexualized scripts and manipulate the public”purely for profit.”
In an effort to reshape the industry, the China Association of Performing Arts and Douyin have launched a “Tuanbo Quality” initiative, aiming to create over 100 standardized, high-quality group live streaming teams by the end of 2025.
Sources: Znews
