Now, THIS is breaking news. Just got this from OpenSRS, but I guess it applies to ALL:
Hi there -
We regret to inform you that CNNIC has announced an indefinite suspension all .CN registrations from overseas Registrars, including our registration provider Neustar.
As a result of this action by CNNIC, we have no choice but to suspend new .CN registrations through OpenSRS. We are in the process of disabling new registrations and we expect to have suspended registrations by end of day today, Tuesday, January 5th, 2009 (EST).
Please note that renewals and transfers will continue to be supported.
Availability checks for .CN domains via the API and Reseller Web Interface will continue to work, however, orders for new .CN domains will fail.
CNNIC says the suspension will allow them to implement a better methodology to verify registrant information from overseas registrations. You will remember that in mid-December, CNNIC put into place new requirements for supporting documentation required to be submitted with new registrations.
There is no timetable for the resumption of new registrations. We'll keep you posted as new information becomes available.
Sincerely,
Adam Eisner
Director, Domain Services
OpenSRS