The Chinese government has defended its right to censor the internet.
In a paper stating its policy on the web, it says blocking some content is necessary in order to protect state power, national unity and the country's interests.
It says foreign companies operating in China should abide by the country's rules.
Websites considered sensitive by officials are routinely blocked in China.
The BBC reports the policy document also reveals just how fast the internet is developing in China.
The government hopes that nearly half the population will have access to the internet within five years. The figure is nearly 30% at the moment.
