Beijing Municipal Public Security Bureau and related departments have issued a regulation to strengthen the management of Twitter-like micro-blogs. The regulation, issued on December 16, 2011, requires Internet companies registered in the city and offering micro-blogging services to have their users register with their real names and personal information. Users' identity information must be validated before they begin blogging. Starting March 16, 2012, micro-bloggers without real-name registration will not be allowed to blog. 

The regulation will have a huge impact on China's 500 million Internet users and those who participate in major micro-blogging sites like Sina, Sohu and Netease.

Beijing is China's first city to demand real-name registration, a move that has sparked controversy.

Supporters believe the regulation will help foster a healthier Internet culture free of rumors and fear mongering, protect Internet users' rights and prevent personalities from influencing Internet conversations.

Opponents argue this practice will limit free speech and cause losses to micro-blog operators because of diminishing numbers of users.