China | Employment Tax | China penalizes online influencer for tax evasion


January 29, 2026

Employment Tax

China | China penalizes online influencer for tax evasion

Summary

The Tianshui Taxation Bureau has taken enforcement action against online anchor Yang Suiwa for tax evasion, highlighting China’s continued scrutiny of the live-streaming industry. The case reflects the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen tax compliance among digital content creators and platform-based earners.

The detail

According to authorities, Yang concealed more than 4.1 million yuan in income between 2022 and 2024, resulting in underpaid taxes of 1.0164 million yuan. The bureau imposed a total penalty of 1.814 million yuan, which includes recovered taxes, late fees, and fines.

Key details:

  • Yang Suiwa evaded 1.0164 million yuan in taxes between 2022–2024.
  • Concealed income totaled over 4.1 million yuan.
  • Total penalty imposed: 1.814 million yuan, covering taxes, late fees, and fines.
  • Investigation initiated following a real-name report to authorities.
  • Action highlights regulatory focus on online influencers and live-streaming sector compliance.

What this means for employers

For employers, this case reinforces the need to strengthen tax compliance controls, especially for businesses working with online anchors, influencers, and other platform-based workers. Companies should ensure proper income reporting, withholding where applicable, and clear contractual terms to avoid regulatory exposure and reputational risk as authorities increase enforcement in the digital economy.

Contact us

For a deeper discussion on the above, please reach out to your Vialto Partners point of contact, or alternatively:

Farrell Chen
Partner

Flora Yang
Senior Manager

Tianxiang Shen
Senior Manager

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