Impending Cyber Security Law: Cross-Border Data Transfer Will Be Restricted For The First Time

Although the legislative timetable for its dedicated Personal Data Protection Law remains undecided, China has promulgated several other laws and regulations for protecting personal data, in response to the booming network technology and Internet economy. Also, China has amended its Law on Protection of Consumer Rights and other relevant laws to meet the rapidly changing social needs. Among these various legislations, the Cyber Security Law attracts the most attention, as it is not only the first time that a fundamental law will provide systematic protection to personal data but also the first time that cross-border data transfer will be explicitly restricted, which will significantly impact corporations' business operation in China.