Chinese authorities have confirmed that internet search services provider Google Inc is yet to apply for the China web map license. According to deputy director general of the State Bureau of Surveying and Mapping (SBSM), Song Chaozhi, about 80 firms had submitted their applications since the introduction of a new regulation in May.
The new regulation requires companies providing online maps in China to apply for approval. While Google had reportedly made initial contact with the authorities, it has not officially submitted an application. Online mapping licenses have been granted to 31 firms - including Nokia, Baidu, Alibaba, Sohu, Sina and Tencent.
It is believed that Google would soon send a senior executive to China to discuss about the license issue.
According to a SBSM official, failure of Google China to get the online map license will affect millions of smaller Chinese websites which are using Google China's maps.
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