Google China's ICP license has been renewed.
September 8, 2011 Source: New Express Daily Editor: Science and Technology Network Troy
Although more than a year has passed, Google's presence remains a focal point of interest across various sectors. A reporter from New Express confirmed yesterday with Google spokesperson Wang Jinhong that Google China has recently passed the annual inspection for its ICP license. This marks the second time since July 2010 that Google China's ICP license has successfully passed the annual review, indicating that Google can continue its commercial operations in mainland China for the coming year.
The so-called ICP license refers to the "Telecommunications and Information Service Business Operating License of the People's Republic of China" issued by local communication management departments. It is a permit for operating a website. According to the national "Regulations on the Administration of Internet Information Services," commercial websites must obtain an ICP license; otherwise, they are considered to be operating illegally.
In 2010, Google shifted its search services from mainland China to Hong Kong, so users accessing google.cn would be automatically redirected to google.com.hk, while retaining local services such as advertising, music, translation, and shopping.
According to the market revenue share report for search engine operators released by Analysys in the second quarter of 2011, Baidu accounted for 75.9%, while Google China, in second place, continued to decline, holding only 18.9%. The semi-annual report shows that Baidu's net profit in the second quarter reached 1.633 billion RMB (approximately 253 million USD), a year-on-year increase of 95%.
Wang Jinhong stated that Google had previously obtained a 5-year valid ICP license, but it must undergo an annual inspection each year. The recent approval was merely a routine annual inspection. "Passing the annual inspection means that Google can continue to operate limited businesses in China, such as advertising, music, translation, etc. As for Google's search services, they will still be redirected to google.com.hk."