China's New Exit Rules Could Restrict Taiwanese Travelers, Analyst Says
China will tighten exit and entry controls from Sept. 15, expanding government powers to restrict travel and monitor cross-border activities.
Taiwanese travelers may face heightened uncertainty when journeying to China following Beijing's recent introduction of new regulations, according to an analyst. The State Council issued a 19-part set of exit and entry rules, set to commence on September 15, that broaden government oversight of cross-border activities involving people, technology, information and social networks.
Analyst Hung Pu-chao from Tunghai University's Center for Mainland China and Regional Development Research notes that these rules represent a more comprehensive approach to national security, extending beyond traditional border controls. They establish a comprehensive framework for managing cross-border activities, and grant Chinese immigration authorities the power to advise citizens against traveling to high-risk destinations, question travelers about their purpose, and inspect electronic data stored on mobile phones.
Provincial governments can also bar Chinese citizens from leaving the country for up to three years if they engage in activities deemed harmful to China's national security or interests. The regulations also extend oversight to intermediary services involving overseas study, immigration and visa applications. For Taiwanese travelers, these rules could introduce significant uncertainty due to the increased administrative discretion granted to authorities and the lack of clear definitions for triggering government intervention.
Those already in China may face enforcement measures or restrictions on leaving the country, while those planning to travel for work, study or other purposes are advised to be prepared for potential legal risks.
Written by urgent.news from Tempo.co English's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
