RedNote Tightens Source-Labelling Rules for News, AI and Fictional Content

WESTMINSTER, U.K. - May 11, 2026 - PRLog -- RedNote, also known as Xiaohongshu, a major Chinese social networking and e-commerce platform with around 300 million monthly active users, has strengthened its rules on information source labelling, according to its official notice dated 8 May 2026. The update signals a stricter compliance environment for creators, brands, MCN agencies and businesses using the platform for social search, reputation-building and China-facing marketing.

The official guidance highlights four key requirements. First, when publishing current-affairs information involving domestic or international events, policies or social issues, creators must clearly state the information source; self-shot images or videos should include the filming time and location. Second, when referencing old news or historical events, creators must clearly state when and where the event occurred, to avoid presenting old information as new. Third, AI-generated images, videos, short dramas and story-based content must be clearly labelled as "AI-generated". Fourth, fictional or dramatised content, including scripted plots and performance-led stories, must carry a visible "fictional dramatisation" or equivalent label.

RedNote said it had handled 8,034 non-compliant notes, closed 139 non-compliant accounts and banned 426 accounts. Its cited cases included a Chengdu-based account permanently banned for repeatedly publishing false current-affairs information without sources; an account banned for 30 days for continuing to post dramatised content without the required label despite platform reminders; and an account banned for 30 days for publishing multiple AI-generated short dramas and stories without AI-generation labels.

Gogetop Marketing advises brands to treat the update as a core operating rule, not a minor publishing detail. Before posting, brands should classify each note, verify claims, label AI or fictional content clearly, keep source records, train creators and KOCs, and connect compliant content with conversion paths such as WeChat, website visits, enquiries or consultations.

"RedNote visibility in 2026 will depend on trust, evidence and clarity," said Ann Zhu, Director of Gogetop Marketing. "Brands that build transparent content systems will be better positioned for long-term growth."

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