China's securities regulatory agencies have issued new instructions to prevent economists and other practitioners from publishing information that contradicts central policies. SMU Associate Professor of Finance Fu Fangjian noted that some industry professionals publish false statements for interest groups, harming investors and the industry's credibility. Despite last year's penalties for non-compliant behaviour, further regulation is needed to prevent the entire industry from being demonised due to individual comments. Assoc Prof Fu also highlighted the importance of professionals interpreting policies responsibly and warned against creating an atmosphere of fear in the industry. He stressed that economics should be treated as a science and that responsible statements based on facts are crucial.
