China plans to increase advertising fraud fines

BEIJING - Fines for misleading and deceptive advertisements will be increased, according to a draft amendment to China's advertisement law.

The Legislative Affairs Office of the State Council is soliciting public opinion on the draft amendment, which says that advertising for drugs and medical equipment should comply with registered certificates issued by drug supervising departments.

New requirements on ads for prescription medicine and over-the-counter remedies will be put in place, along with new protection for juveniles.

The draft amendment bans advertising on primary and middle school campuses and in kindergartens. It includes textbooks, uniforms and school buses.

Ads for any kind of medical products or services, online games and alcohol are to be banned from any media aimed at juveniles and children.

Further information is online at chinalaw.gov.cn. The public can submit their comments before March 24.