Game developers, distributors and providers have been ordered by the government to label their products with ratings showing their suitability for children.
The Ministry of Economic Affairs announced on Tuesday a new ratings system for games (including mobile applications) consisting of five categories: general audience, protected, parental guidance-12, parental guidance-15 and restricted.
In the past, authorities could only verbally admonish companies that did not classify their products properly to improve them or remove them from store shelves.
However, following an amendment to the Children and Youth Welfare Act (兒童及少年福利法) passed in November last year, authorities can more effectively regulate businesses, and protect children and youths from products harmful to their health.
According to the amended law, businesses and individuals who supply improperly classified games and applications are subject to a fine of up to NT$300,000, starting next year, the ministry said.
Games and applications that have already entered the market must also follow the rule, with owners, providers and developers facing penalties starting from 2014, the ministry said.
Foreign game developers and their local agents also have to abide by the law to avoid fines.
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