China's new exit and entry management regulations have taken effect, and personnel involved in technology import and export, industrial safety and national security may face stricter exit review

China's new version of the "Exit and Entry Administration Regulations" officially came into effect on the 15th. Personnel involved in technology import and export, industrial safety and national security may face more stringent exit review. (Reuters photo)

China's "Regulations on Exit and Entry Administration of the State Council" officially came into effect on the 15th. Personnel involved in technology import and export, industrial safety and national security may face more stringent exit review. What was originally a simple trip abroad may impose new administrative restrictions on some Chinese people engaged in sensitive work.

The British Financial Times reported on the 15th that the new regulations cover not only government officials, members of the Communist Party of China and employees of state-owned enterprises, but also extend to private enterprise personnel in sensitive industries. The report pointed out that China has continued to strengthen its management of state secrets, technological development and the flow of professional talents in recent years, and the new regulations further incorporate relevant restrictions into legal norms.

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According to Article 4 of the new regulations, personnel who violate export control, technology import and export management and other regulations and may endanger industrial or technological security can be restricted from leaving the country. Those who violate relevant regulations may face travel restrictions and fines from 3 months to indefinitely.

The FT pointed out that relevant regulations also increase the compliance pressure on companies when handling employees' overseas travel. Some professionals and their family members face stricter scrutiny when applying to leave the country, and the overseas procedures may involve more levels of approval.

Technological talents are also being controlled out of the country

For sensitive technology and manufacturing industries, the new exit regulations involve not only people in the public service system, but also employees in private enterprises may be affected. Personnel involved in key technologies and other sensitive fields may face additional scrutiny when traveling abroad.

Article 6 of the new regulations also stipulates that in certain circumstances involving national security or criminal investigation, the competent authorities may not inform the parties of the facts, reasons, basis and relief channels for restricting exit from the country. Such regulations have also drawn attention to the transparency of exit restrictions and relief procedures.

Chinese officials stated that the relevant regulations are to standardize entry and exit management and safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests. The new version of the regulations will officially take effect on the 15th. Exit restrictions involving technology import and export, industrial safety and national security will be implemented in accordance with the new regulations.