The Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) has officially launched a unified filing system for internet technologies, marking a significant shift in how the country regulates decentralized ledgers and automated systems. Effective as of November 2026, the new "Internet New Technologies and New Applications Information Service Filing System" replaces previous independent registries. This transition consolidates the oversight of blockchain information services and algorithm providers into a single platform (beian.cac.gov.cn), streamlining the compliance process for developers while reinforcing strict operational boundaries within the mainland.
Consolidated Registration and Compliance Standards
The restructuring involves the simultaneous discontinuation of the former Internet Information Service Algorithm Filing System and the Blockchain Information Service Filing Management System. Under the updated directive, all entities providing Blockchain as a Service (BaaS) platforms must migrate to the new interface to ensure legal standing. The Shanghai CAC has provided specific guidance to clarify the scope of these requirements, emphasizing that the filing process is mandatory for any service utilizing distributed ledger technology to provide information to the public.
- The system integrates multiple emerging technologies under one regulatory umbrella.
- Server infrastructure must be located within mainland China to qualify for filing.
- Entities must possess complete ICP (Internet Content Provider) filings before submitting technology-specific applications.
- Generative AI applications using third-party APIs must register if they possess "public opinion attributes."
Strict Prohibitions on Virtual Currency Activities
Despite the streamlined administrative process, the Chinese government maintains a rigorous stance against speculative digital assets. The regulatory guidelines explicitly state that service names submitted for filing must not contain terms associated with the volatile crypto market. Applications will be scrutinized or rejected if they involve prohibited activities or lack transparency regarding their technical infrastructure.
Service names must not include terms such as virtual currency, exchange, or ICO. Applications involving virtual currency issuance, trading, or ICO businesses will affect the application process.
This policy reinforces the 2021 ban on cryptocurrency trading and mining while allowing for the development of "permissioned" blockchains that do not utilize public tokens. Companies are reminded that overseas server deployments for these services are generally not permitted for mainland-facing applications, as the CAC seeks to maintain data localized within its jurisdiction.
The updated filing system reflects China's dual-track approach to digital innovation: encouraging the domestic adoption of blockchain and artificial intelligence for industrial efficiency while maintaining a total embargo on the decentralized finance (DeFi) ecosystem. By centralizing these filings, the CAC enhances its ability to monitor the evolution of Web3 technologies and ensures that all public-facing algorithms and data structures remain compliant with national security and information control standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to the most common questions about this topic.
For educational purposes only. Nothing here constitutes financial or investment advice. Crypto markets are highly volatile — always DYOR before making any decisions.
Fact-checked per our editorial policy. We maintain strict independence from advertisers. Spot an error? Let us know.