Should South Africa tighten influencer rules? Lessons from China’s new certification laws

Loading player...
GUEST: Gail Schimmel - CEO of the Advertising Regulatory Board.

China has just introduced sweeping new rules requiring influencers to prove formal training or credentials before they can post about sensitive topics like medicine, law, or finance. It’s a move that blurs the line between free speech and professional responsibility and it’s turning heads in the global influencer economy.

In South Africa, where the influencer marketing industry is booming and regulation often plays catch-up, this raises a critical question: Should we be doing more to verify who gets to influence?
28 Oct 2025 4PM English South Africa Business News · Investing

Other recent episodes

4Sight CEO on Why Intelligent Automation Is Now Essential

4Sight Holdings is at the forefront of AI‑powered enterprise transformation, with FY26 revenue up 16.3%. CEO Tertius Zitzke unpacks the rise of intelligent automation, the convergence of OT and IT, WhatsApp‑based enterprise tools, and the technologies that will shape South African businesses over the next five years.
2 Jun 3PM 9 min

Rate Hike Tests SA Property Market Resilience

After months of improving sentiment, the latest rate hike raises questions about affordability and market momentum. CEO Herschel Jawitz explains the impact on buyers, sellers, investors and tenants — and why long‑term fundamentals remain positive despite short‑term pressure.
2 Jun 3PM 16 min

SA’s KSIA Marks 16 Years With 92% Passenger Recovery

King Shaka International Airport celebrates 16 years as KZN’s aviation gateway, with passenger volumes rebounding to 92% of pre‑pandemic levels. Sanjeev Gareeb discusses operational milestones, new route development, infrastructure upgrades, and what travellers can expect in the years ahead.
2 Jun 3PM 17 min

SA New Vehicle Sales Hit 12‑Year High Despite Rate Hikes

South Africa’s new vehicle market continues to defy economic pressure, with May sales reaching their highest level since 2013. NADA Vice‑Chairperson Thembinkosi Pantsi breaks down consumer trends, rising interest in hybrids and EVs, and why mobility remains a priority even in a high‑cost environment.
2 Jun 3PM 14 min

Telkom HEPS Up 21.5% as Data Strategy Powers Growth

Telkom delivered a strong set of full‑year results, with data revenue rising to R26.6bn and HEPS up 21.5%. CEO Serame Taukobong unpacks mobile momentum, fibre growth, improved cash generation, and the Group’s revised dividend policy in a tough economic environment.
2 Jun 3PM 14 min