China: Cyberspace Administration of China deployed trial implementation of Negative List of Algorithms for Lifestyle Service Platforms

On 3 February 2026, the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) held a meeting to advance the trial implementation of the Negative List of Algorithms for Lifestyle Service Platforms. Lifestyle service platforms include e-commerce, mobile payment, messaging, and other related services. The list, developed in coordination with several government departments, sets out rules for algorithms that play central roles in benefit distribution within platform ecosystems. The CAC highlighted issues related to algorithmic opacity, discrimination, and collusion, noting the need for targeted measures to address these areas. Platforms are expected to establish dedicated working groups led by senior management to develop work plans and implementation roadmaps. Routine issues are to be addressed promptly, while more complex technical or managerial matters should be resolved within defined timeframes. Platforms are also expected to cooperate with external supervision and consider public feedback as part of performance evaluation. The CAC will monitor compliance through algorithm checks and may take action if implementation is inadequate. Representatives from 19 sectors, including food delivery, ride-hailing, freight, online shopping, and ticketing, participated in the meeting.