Policy Snapshots
Navigating China's ever-evolving regulatory landscape can be challenging, which is why we provide valuable insights that help contextualize policy changes. The Policy Snapshot is a bi-weekly briefing on the latest Chinese policies for German companies in China. The Policy Snapshot is shared on the WeChat Channels of the German Chamber and can also be accessed on this site. As a member of the German Chamber, you can also benefit from our more comprehensive report, the Policy Barometer, which is delivered straight to your inbox.
Policy Snapshot - Recent National and Regional Policies in China (2024/09/18)
Negative List for Data Exports at Beijing FTZ
The Beijing Cyberspace Administration together with two other departments jointly released the Negative List Administrative Measures for Data Exports in the Free Trade Zone (FTZ) and the 2024 Data Export Negative List for Beijing FTZ. The measures clarify responsible parties, labor divisions, working processes, and the implementation of Beijing’s FTZ data management. It also includes rules of how to classify data at Beijing’s FTZ, which lists 13 categories and 41 sub-sectors for important data identification.
Our take: Finally, the negative list for the Beijing FTZ has been released, after those for Tianjin FTZ and Shanghai FTZ were issued. These pilots attempt to be frontrunners in trying to handle the complex data transfer topic, focusing on specific sectors such as pharmaceuticals as a start. For German companies in these specific sectors and zones this is likely a good step forward.
The Negative List Administrative Measures for Data Exports in the Free Trade Zone (FTZ)
The Negative List for Data Exports (2024 Edition) for the China (Beijing) Free Trade Zone
The 2024 Negative List for Foreign Investment
The Special Administrative Measures for Foreign Investment Access (Negative List) (2024 Edition) was released by the National and Development Reform Commission (NDRC) and the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM). Compared with the previous version, the 2024 edition removed the last wo restrictions in manufacturing including printing and traditional Chinese medicine. As of now there are still 29 items left. The 2024 edition will come into effect on November 1, 2024.
Our take: The last two restricted items had almost no relevance for German companies. Therefore, with the shortening of the list, there will virtually be no change for German businesses in terms of business opportunities. What would be more beneficial are measures that address various other hurdles, such as obtaining licenses or approvals in a timely manner.
The Special Administrative Measures for Foreign Investment Access (Negative List) (2024 Edition)
What Does the New Negative List Mean for German Companies?
More Support for the E-Scooter Trade-in Programs
The Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) and four other central government agencies issued an implementation plan to support the trade-in of electric scooters, which includes two types of subsidies: subsidies for all e-scooter trade-ins, with local governments formulating plans based on their specific conditions, and additional subsidies for consumers trading in old battery equipment.
Our take: Since more products have been included in the trade-in program, it reflects the central government's increased emphasis on the initiative.
Implementation Plan to Support the Trade-in of Electric Scooters