Which Chinese Agencies Are Responsible for Overseeing Overseas Data Operations?

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In the age of digital globalization, data has become a critical asset, often crossing national borders. China, as a major player in the global digital economy, has developed a robust governance framework to regulate data operations both domestically and overseas. Multiple Chinese government agencies play important roles in overseeing overseas data activities, ensuring that Chinese entities comply with national laws and safeguard China’s cybersecurity and data sovereignty interests abroad. Understanding which agencies are involved and their respective responsibilities offers valuable insight into China’s approach to overseas data governance.

1. Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC)
The Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) is the primary gambling data china authority responsible for cybersecurity and data regulation, including overseas data governance. Established in 2014 and operating under the Central Cyberspace Affairs Commission, the CAC has broad powers over internet and data policy enforcement.

Regulatory Role: The CAC oversees the implementation of key legislation such as the Data Security Law (DSL) and the Personal Information Protection Law (PIPL). These laws govern the cross-border transfer of “important data” and personal information, requiring companies to conduct security assessments and obtain CAC approval before exporting data.

Cross-Border Data Security: The CAC manages the security review process for overseas data transfers, ensuring that data moving beyond China’s borders meets strict security standards. This oversight aims to prevent risks such as data breaches, leakage of sensitive information, or activities detrimental to national security.

International Cooperation: CAC also represents China in global cyber governance discussions and promotes China’s vision of digital sovereignty on international platforms.

2. Ministry of Public Security (MPS)
The Ministry of Public Security (MPS) is China’s principal law enforcement agency and plays a vital role in cybersecurity enforcement.

Cybercrime Investigation: The MPS investigates cybercrimes including hacking, data theft, and illegal cross-border data flows. It monitors and acts on illicit overseas data operations that threaten China’s cybersecurity.

Enforcement of Cybersecurity Law: While CAC sets policy, MPS has a key enforcement role. It can conduct raids, arrest offenders, and cooperate with international law enforcement agencies to tackle transnational cyber threats.

Regulation of Overseas Data Services: MPS may supervise Chinese companies providing overseas cloud computing, internet, or data storage services to ensure compliance with security requirements.

3. Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT)
The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) regulates China’s information technology sector, including telecommunications and internet infrastructure.

Oversight of Telecom and Internet Operators: MIIT licenses and supervises telecommunications and internet service providers (ISPs), many of which operate internationally or provide cross-border data services.

Standards and Compliance: MIIT sets technical standards for data security and promotes the development of secure IT infrastructure. It ensures that Chinese companies maintain cybersecurity standards when operating overseas.

Data Localization and Infrastructure: MIIT also plays a role in policies concerning data localization, which can affect how data is stored and transferred abroad.