Navigating through China’s personal data protection maze is becoming increasingly important as the country emphasizes national security over economic development and strengthens the oversight of such information.
China Data Protection, Cross-Border Transfers Enter New Chapter
New National Data Bureau Established
China’s recently finalization of data protection regulations and establishment of a new National Data Bureau following the recent “Two Sessions” political meetings usher in a new chapter in the country’s security-focused regulatory environment, in which health players must pay close attention to avoid mishaps and non-compliance.

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After almost seven years, China’s NMPA has once again published draft measures for clinical trial data protection, opening these up to public comments. While specific protection periods by drug category are proposed, some clarifications are still needed.
A new annual report from China's CDE shows a rise in overall product approvals but a fall in the transition rate for conditional to full approvals, possibly signalling more stringent requirements.
While CMC glitches linger over a US NDA for Elevar/Hengrui’s novel liver cancer combination following a second complete response letter, the separate issue of underrepresentation of US patients in multiregional trials is looming large after new FDA draft guidance last year.
The main 2025 policy priorities for China's government as outlined in an annual report will include the strengthening of commercial insurance for innovative drugs and opening up cell and gene therapy and the hospital sector to foreign investment.
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Artesunate for malaria, TB drug pretomanid and omadacycline for pneumonia and skin infections are among the drugs identified by Japanese regulatory authorities in urgent need of domestic development.
Analysts expect a limited impact on South Korean pharma from US tariffs, even if imposed at a later date. Meanwhile, the early June domestic presidential election is set to determine the direction of policies in the sector.
Trump announced a 26% reciprocal tariff on India, but a country-agnostic exemption of pharmaceuticals implies that the interests of Indian firms are protected for now. What is Indian pharma’s business exposure and what is domestic industry saying?