China's Perspective: Regulation and Impact of Cross-border Data Transfer

中国视角：跨境数据传输的监管及其影响

Understanding Data Classifications: Personal Information and Important Data

了解数据分类：个人信息和重要数据

When considering cross-border data transfers, it is crucial to understand what types of data are involved. Under Chinese law, personal information includes data that can directly identify individuals, such as names, identification numbers, and biometric data (e.g., fingerprints, voiceprints, and facial recognition features). Moreover, Chinese law pays particular attention to "sensitive personal information," which, if leaked or misused, could harm an individual’s reputation, and safety, or cause discrimination. Handling such information requires the data subject’s explicit, separate consent.

在考虑跨境数据传输时，了解涉及哪些类型的数据至关重要。根据中国法律，个人信息包括可直接识别个人的数据，例如姓名、身份证号码、生物特征数据（例如指纹、声纹和面部识别特征）。此外，中国法律特别关注“敏感个人信息”，这些信息如果泄露或滥用，可能会损害个人的声誉、安全或造成歧视。处理此类信息需要数据主体的明确、单独同意。

In addition to personal information, China classifies certain data types as "important." This includes unpublished government information, population genetics, health data, and resources-related information (e.g., geographical or mineral resources). Identifying key information infrastructure is another critical aspect, as it determines which data and systems require the highest levels of protection.

除了个人信息，中国还将某些类型的数据归类为“重要数据”。这包括未公开的政府信息、人口遗传学、健康数据和资源相关信息（例如地理或矿产资源）。关键信息基础设施的识别是另一个关键方面，因为它决定了哪些数据和系统需要最高级别的保护。

Legal Exemptions and Free Trade Zones

法律豁免和自由贸易区

Despite strict regulations, there are specific exemptions that allow for the transfer of personal information without the need for security assessments. For instance, data generated during international trade, academic cooperation, or transnational manufacturing may qualify for these exemptions, as long as no personal information or sensitive data is involved.

尽管有严格的规定，但在某些例外情况下，个人信息可以在不进行安全评估的情况下进行转移。例如，在国际贸易、学术合作或跨国制造过程中产生的数据可能不受此限制，前提是不涉及个人信息或重要数据。

China has established 21 Free Trade Zones (FTZs) to encourage foreign investment and promote economic liberalization. These FTZs provide additional regulatory flexibility by utilizing a "negative list" system for data transfers. Data not included on this list can be transferred more freely; however, this process still requires oversight and approval from both provincial and national authorities.

此外，中国为促进外商投资和经济自由化而设立的21个自由贸易区?(FTZ)?提供了额外的监管灵活性。这些FTZ?有权通过“负面清单”系统管理数据传输。任何不在该清单上的数据都可以更自由地转移，尽管这一过程仍需要省级和国家当局的监督和批准。

In a globalized economy, data has become a vital asset that transcends borders, necessitating stringent regulatory frameworks to ensure its protection. China’s approach to cross-border data transfers reflects a commitment to safeguarding national security, protecting personal information, and promoting economic growth. The multi-level legislation and tiered management system provide a structured approach that aligns with global trends while addressing the unique challenges faced by Chinese businesses. As data becomes increasingly valuable, the ability to navigate these regulatory frameworks will be essential for companies looking to engage in cross-border activities while remaining compliant with local laws.

在全球化经济中，数据已成为跨越国界的重要资产，需要严格的监管框架来确保其保护。中国对跨境数据传输的做法反映了维护国家安全、保护个人信息和促进经济增长的承诺。多层次立法和分层管理体系提供了一种符合全球趋势的结构化方法，同时解决了中国企业面临的独特挑战。随着数据变得越来越有价值，对于希望从事跨境活动同时又遵守当地法律的公司来说，驾驭这些监管框架的能力将至关重要。