BEIJING — China’s press and publication regulator has ordered social media platforms featuring video and audio programs to obtain licenses.

The State Administration of Press, Publication, Radio, Film and Television (SAPPRFT) has recently issued a document strengthening the regulation of video and audio programs on social media platforms, such as Weibo and WeChat, according to a press release on Dec 20.

If organizations and individuals operate online streaming services on Weibo or WeChat without licenses, the social media platforms should be responsible for the content.

Platforms must monitor if content is suitable according to “various requirements for managing video and audio programs,” the document said, adding that the “scope of content cannot exceed the limit specified in the license issued to platforms.”

Online platforms are also prohibited from offering access to Weibo or WeChat accounts that defy regulations.

Moreover, films and TV series circulated on social media platforms must obtain licenses for public airing, and social media platforms are not allowed to repost user-generated video and audio programs featuring political news.