China continues to find ways to impose video game-related bans in the country. However, while most regulations aren't directed at any specific title, the latest ban seems to single out PUBG: Battlegrounds. In particular, the ban targets the esports portion of the popular battle royale title, with China's National Press and Publication Administration (NAPP) yet to approve PUBG.
China continues to crack down on gaming all over the country
China's video game market is worth billions of dollars. Yet, despite this success, it appears that the Chinese government is committed to tightening its grip on the industry. Case in point, China recently imposed a law the restricted the playing time of minors. However, the latest crackdown has had a direct effect on PUBG Esports, and although PUBG remains legal to play in China, the law prohibits its esports leg from operating.
A report from the Sports Business Journal claims that Yibo Zhang, the Vice President of China Culture Management Association Esports Committee has stated that the NAPP hasn't approved PUBG yet. Because of this, the esports side of PUBG will need to shut down until further notice. Zhang explained that the ban will affect the entire PUBG community, even if the ban is just focused on competitions.