China: State Administration for Market Regulation issued CNY 200’000 fine against Shanghai Qiaopin Network Information Technology for artificial intelligence-enabled false advertising

On 6 February 2026, the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) published a list of typical cases of unfair competition enforcement in the the artificial intelligence sector, including its investigation into Shanghai Qiaopin Network Information Technology Co., Ltd. The case concerned the company's provision of AI-based automated outbound calling software to intermediary loan companies to enable them to carry out false advertising activities. The SAMR determined that the company violated Article 8(2) of the Anti-Unfair Competition Law of the People’s Republic of China, which prohibits assisting other companies in conducting false or misleading advertising, ordering the company to cease the conduct, and imposing a fine of CNY 200’000.