China’s government is considering new measures to limit social media and screen time among young people, sparking debate on the effectiveness and implications of such regulations. While officials argue that excessive internet use negatively affects the physical and academic well-being of minors, many young Chinese remain skeptical of these proposals.
During China’s annual political meetings in Beijing, retired basketball star Yao Ming suggested a policy requiring children to turn off all electronic devices for one day each academic semester to encourage outdoor activities. Other officials supported tighter regulations on online gaming and social media, citing concerns about addiction and harmful content.
China already enforces some of the world’s strictest internet controls, blocking numerous foreign websites and social media platforms. In recent years, the government has implemented policies aimed at reducing minors’ online presence. For example, in 2021, authorities limited gaming for minors to one hour on weekdays and two hours on weekends. Tencent Games further restricted playtime during the 2024 Chinese New Year break, allowing minors only 15 hours of gaming over 32 days. However, many young users bypass these restrictions by using adult accounts.
Public reactions to these new proposals have been mixed. While some support efforts to reduce screen time, others question their feasibility. Social media users argue that students already spend most of their time in school and rely on the internet for academic purposes. One commenter from Hebei Province noted that schools should assign less online homework if the government intends to limit internet use. Another from Beijing pointed out that students often return home late, leaving little time for social media.
Some analysts believe that internet addiction is a symptom of larger societal pressures. Media commentator Xu Quan suggests that, rather than restricting internet access, addressing academic stress and providing more offline freedoms would be more effective. Similarly, Will Wang, a Chinese student studying in the U.S., highlights how the internet provides young people with a rare space for privacy and social interaction.
While the government’s intentions may be well-meaning, many remain doubtful about the actual impact of these regulations. As China continues to navigate the complexities of internet governance, balancing youth well-being with digital freedom will remain a contentious issue.
