China is preparing to enforce revised entry and exit rules that could create new risks for Taiwanese citizens visiting the country, particularly those working in sensitive technology sectors, according to a report by Taiwan’s Taipei Times citing a national security source.
The revised rules are scheduled to take effect in September and would give Chinese authorities broader powers to restrict the movement of people considered a threat to national security or national interests. According to the source, Taiwanese visitors could potentially face restrictions if they are suspected of involvement in sensitive technologies or employment with companies considered “hostile” by Beijing.
Under rules issued by China’s State Council, Chinese nationals who engage in illegal or criminal activities overseas that threaten national security or national interests can be prevented from leaving China for between six months and three years after entering the country. Beijing’s nationality law also treats Taiwanese citizens as Chinese nationals.
The rules could also apply to cases involving violations of import and export regulations that authorities believe could threaten China’s industrial or technological security. The source said Taiwanese citizens could face restrictions if Chinese authorities believe they have been involved in obtaining technology, industrial information, scientific research or military-related information.
In some circumstances, the source warned that Taiwanese citizens could be prevented from returning home. The source also claimed that if individuals live in other countries, Chinese authorities could potentially target family members residing in China in an attempt to pressure them to return.
Local governments in border areas are also expected to have greater authority to impose exit restrictions, raising concerns about personal safety for people traveling or working in China.
The measures could have particular implications for the semiconductor and technology supply chain. Engineers employed by semiconductor suppliers or integrated-circuit design companies who travel to China for business could face additional inspections or movement restrictions if their laptops or other devices contain information about new manufacturing processes or technology development.
The national security source said some companies have already introduced stricter travel-security policies for employees visiting China. These measures include requiring workers to use dedicated “clean” phones and laptops and prohibiting them from carrying their normal work or personal devices.
China is also proposing changes to its Administrative Measures for Internet Information Services, which would give authorities additional tools to regulate online speech and behavior, according to the Taipei Times report.
The developments come alongside China’s Ethnic Unity and Progress Promotion Law, which took effect on July 1, 2026. More than 50 Uyghur civil society organizations condemned the legislation in July, arguing that it goes beyond an administrative measure and represents a broader effort toward forced assimilation.
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In a joint statement, the organizations said the law links ethnic unity with the Chinese nation and the Chinese Communist Party while placing greater emphasis on loyalty to the Party, the state and what the legislation defines as the Chinese nation.
