China's People's Daily newspaper has said that work needs to be done to close loopholes that allow minors to play games despite new restrictions.

As reported by Reuters, the state-run publication has pointed out that there is an economy where users can buy and rent game accounts so that those below the age of 18 can circumvent the newly-introduced restrictions.

People's Daily says that game companies need to "actively fulfil social responsibilities" to make sure that the restrictions can be enforced. The media has said that developers and publishers have to "be responsible for the healthy growth of the next generation" as well as "promote the healthy development of the industry."

In August, China introduced new restrictions that prevented children from playing games for extended periods of time. They are unable to play during the week, but are allowed one hour per day between Friday and Sunday, as well as on public holidays.

This comes amid a new moral panic over video game addiction in the region, which has seen over 200 Chinese companies committing to self regulating and finding ways to curb children playing games excessively.

As if that wasn't enough, China's content regulator is introducing stricter rules for games launching in the region.