China Eases Data Rules for Foreign Firms, Signaling Softer Stance Amid Economic Pressures
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China is signaling a softer stance on data rules to ease regulation for foreign businesses. Authorities will allow data exports without oversight if not deemed "important data".
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The changes address business concerns about cross-border data flows and data localization requirements. They follow pledges to improve the investment climate.
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The rules still do not define "important data", leaving some ambiguity. But they reduce regulatory uncertainty.
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Other recent regulation, like on AI chatbots, has also been more relaxed. Baidu's CEO called new AI rules "pro-innovation".
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While incremental, the steps show Beijing responding to economic pressures and foreign business frustrations. More action may follow recent commitments.