China’s new cyber security law stirs controversy
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BEIJING: More than 40 international business and technology organizations representing hundreds of companies on Friday expressed “deep concerns” to the Chinese government about a new cyber security law they said would likely increase the separation between China and the rest of the world economy.
China cyber security law tightens grip over Internet
Beijing on Monday adopted a cyber security law it called necessary to counter growing threats of hacking and terrorism.
The measure, to take effect in June 2017, was swiftly condemned by overseas critics, including business and human rights groups.
They said it threatens to shut foreign technology companies out of various sectors deemed “critical”, and includes contentious requirements for security reviews and for data to be stored on servers in China.
Chinese officials have said it would not interfere with foreign business interests.
In their letter, the groups warned that Beijing’s efforts to control more of China’s Internet and technology would “effectively erect trade barriers along national boundaries” while failing to achieve its security objectives.
The cyber security law would also burden industry and undermine “the foundation of China’s relations with its commercial partners,” the groups wrote in a letter addressed to the Chinese Communist Party Central Leading Group for Cyberspace Affairs.