In recent years, live-streaming has become an essential tool for consumption. Using advanced technology, businesses can reap high profit at a low cost.

According to the China Internet Network Information Center, 560 million people, accounting for 62 percent of all netizens, avail of live-streaming services. Nearly half of them buy the products being promoted.

Though it's a dynamic industry, some problems have been revealed, including exaggerating data of viewing and purchasing.

During the epidemic, live-streaming showed its value, stabilizing consumption and economic growth. According to industry insiders, the live-streaming industry will reach nearly 1 trillion yuan ($141.6 billion) this year. So there is no need to cheat the public on sale volumes or how many times a product has been viewed because it will have a detrimental effect on industrial development.

When the focus of businesses and anchors becomes data instead of product quality, consumers' rights will be ignored.

Therefore, for the healthy development of the industry, anti-counterfeiting rules should be introduced to build a fair and transparent cyberspace emphasizing honesty and credit. It is also necessary to combine online and offline forces to ensure comprehensive supervision.

(This is an edited excerpt of an article originally published in Beijing Youth Daily on June 25) 

(Print Edition Title: Honesty and Transparency)