China implemented new regulations on 'deep synthesis' technology in January 2023. Some commentators have called it a 'landmark', 'first-of-its-kind' and the 'most comprehensive' law in the world regulating deepfakes. The regulations prohibit the use of such technology for spreading 'fake' news or information that could disrupt the economy or national security, which authorities have wide latitude to interpret. Providers of 'deep synthesis technologies' must take steps to prevent the use of their services for illegal or harmful purposes, protect user privacy by requiring consent, authenticate user identity, and label synthetic content, among other legal obligations.

Professor Mimi Zou, Chair in Commercial Law at the University of Exeter, will examine the multi-faceted and conflicting policy rationales underlying the new regulations in the Chinese context, their likely implications for different actors and the challenges that may arise in its implementation and enforcement.

China's Deepfake Regulations: navigating security, misinformation and innovation with Prof Mimi Zou