China has implemented new border control regulations that could prohibit citizens from leaving the country if they are involved in activities deemed to threaten national or industrial security. The rules, which took effect Tuesday, are part of a broader effort to update border regulations and reflect a heightened concern within the government over the potential for technology to be exported, particularly amid increasing competition with the United States in areas like artificial intelligence.
The regulations state they were developed to protect national sovereignty, security, and development interests. Under the new rules, a citizen involved in criminal activity overseas that jeopardizes national security could face a travel ban ranging from six months to three years following their return to China. Similarly, individuals violating technology export or import regulations, if such actions endanger industrial or technological security, could also be barred from leaving.
Consultancy Trivium noted in a statement after the regulations were announced that they demonstrate China's seriousness in preventing the transfer of key technology and technical knowledge. This concern was exemplified in April when China blocked tech giant Meta's acquisition of AI startup Manus, a Singapore-based company with Chinese origins, after the deal reportedly raised government worries about the transfer of advanced technology.
The updated rules also include provisions that could prevent foreigners from entering China for one to five years if they provide false information on visa applications or at ports of entry. Additionally, the regulations aim to prevent citizens from being tricked into traveling abroad and subsequently forced into illegal gambling or online and phone scam operations, a persistent issue in recent years.
The Cyberspace Administration of China has stated that the measures are directed at individuals engaged in illegal cross-border activities and not intended to impede ordinary citizens with legitimate travel plans. The agency sought to alleviate concerns that the new rules would broadly restrict travel.