A specific regulation on cell phone messages is expected to be available this year to rein in junk SMSes.

Xinhuanet reports the Ministry of Information Industry will join other relevant departments to be in charge of the legislation that is underway.

An official with the ministry said improved management on domain names and IP addresses has enabled lawmakers to trace junk message senders.

The official stressed the implementation of real-name registration for mobile phone users will ensure the regulation takes full effect.

China launched real-name registration for cell phone users in late 2005. However, many have not been covered due to the astronomical numbers of the country's 460 million mobile phone users who use prepaid SIM cards without registration.

(CRI February 25, 2007)