China's .cn domain may soon be open to everyone.

Chinese authorities plan to lift the rule that only businesses and government organizations can register .cn domain names. Ordinary citizens will soon be able to register domains as well.

A spokesperson for the China Network Information Center (CNNIC) stated this in an interview with China Daily. The organization is currently in talks with the Chinese government regarding the resumption of domain registration for individuals. However, if the free registration rule is reinstated, citizens will only be able to register a domain if they provide a full set of identity documents.

If the state does not agree to return the opportunity for private individuals to register domains in the .cn zone, then the CNNIC organization will launch a special domain zone intended for private individuals.

Registrars are protesting this government decision – approximately 40% of registrar companies' clients are private individuals.

Moreover, analysts believe that the ban on domain registration by individuals will have a negative impact on the country's entire Internet industry.

At the end of 2009, there were 13.6 million websites in China, up 61% from the previous year.