Briefly

346 generative AI services filed with CAC

A total of 346 generative artificial intelligence services had been registered with the Cyberspace Administration of China as of March 31, according to a statement released by the Chinese internet regulator on Tuesday. According to the CAC, providers of generative AI services that possess attributes of public opinion influence or the capacity for social mobilization may complete filing or registration procedures through their local cyberspace authorities. The generative AI services that have completed filing include DeepSeek and Baidu's Ernie Bot, as shown on the CAC's website.

Former Party chief sent to prison for bribery

Mao Qi, the former Party chief of Wannian county in Shangrao, Jiangxi province, was sentenced to 10 years and six months in prison for bribery on Tuesday. He was also fined 1 million yuan ($136,300) and had his illicit gains totaling over 11.5 million yuan confiscated, according to the Xinyu Intermediate People's Court. The court found that between 2012 and 2024, Mao abused his positions to help others secure construction projects, government funds, promotions and bank loans. In return, he accepted bribes either directly or through intermediaries.

Tax refund policy for foreign visitors updated

China has updated its tax refund policy for foreign tourists, shifting from a refund-upon-departure model to a refund-upon-purchase model, the State Taxation Administration said on Tuesday. Foreign visitors can instantly claim value-added tax rebates at tax-free stores. Previously, VAT rebates were only available for withdrawal upon departure. The policy change, initially piloted in Shanghai, Beijing, Guangdong province, Sichuan province and Zhejiang province, has now met all operational requirements for a nationwide rollout, according to the STA.

Xinhua