CHINA TOPIX

11/22/2024 01:24:08 am

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Foreign Organizations Speak Against China’s New Cybersecurity Law

Foreign investors are against China's new Cyber-security laws.

(Photo : Getty Images) China's proposed cyber security law continues to be lambasted by critics.

A group of over 40 foreign business and technology companies on Friday spoke out against China's new security law. They argued that the new law will only strengthen the barrier between China and other countries.

If the new law becomes fully effective, then companies would be required to localize data and be put on surveillance.

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In a letter written by the group addressed to the Chinese Communist Party Central Leading Group for Cyber Space Affairs, they argue that if the new law comes into effect, China would easily create trade barriers along national boundaries.

"The cyber security law would also burden industry and undermine the foundation of China's relations with its commercial partners," the letter reads.

The companies added that even if the laws are to be implemented, it does not necessarily guarantee that their cyber security needs would be fully met.

The letter was signed by the Information Technology Industry, the Australian Industry Group, Business Europe, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce among others.

U.S. Senator and Colorado Republican Cory Gardner told Reuters that the new law is something to be worried about.

He noted that the law would only violate people's privacy and damage their relationship with other nations

"I have spoken with Chinese officials in regards to the matter during my last visit and will push the Obama administration to address Bejing's broader actions in cyberspace," he said.

The new law, which is expected to take effect in June next year, was openly condemned by foreign including business and human rights groups.

Chinese cybersecurity experts, however, claim that foreign companies are exaggerating the matter and that no international barriers would be broken when the new laws come into effect.

"They are synonymous. This kind of misunderstanding is a kind of prejudice," said the director of the Cyberspace Administration of China, Zhao Zeliang.

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