On August 18, 2026, Radio France Internationale (RFI)'s Chinese-language website reported that the Chinese government announced new entry and exit management regulations, strengthening scrutiny and restrictions from the perspective of national security and technology protection.

The article introduced that the Chinese State Council announced the "State Council Regulations on Entry and Exit Management," consisting of 19 articles, at the end of July, and that they would come into effect on September 15. The new regulations include recommendations for self-restraint regarding travel to risky areas overseas and an expansion of electronic data verification authority during entry and exit procedures. Furthermore, if an individual is deemed to have threatened national security or the safety of industry and technology through illegal acts abroad or violations of export control regulations, they will be subject to an exit ban of 6 months to 3 years.

The article also cited examples such as the founder Xiao Hong (肖弘) and others facing exit restrictions when the AI company Manus was acquired by Meta, explaining that the movement of researchers and talent, particularly those involved in advanced technology fields such as artificial intelligence (AI) and semiconductors, would be strictly monitored under the framework of national security.

Moreover, the article pointed out that while the new regulations expand the authority of administrative organs, there is concern that opportunities for legal remedies will be limited. It also noted that the new regulations apply not only to foreigners but also to personnel within the system. In cases where foreigners submit false documents or make false statements during visa applications or entry, an entry ban of 1 to 5 years will be imposed. Furthermore, it was introduced that the regulations explicitly prohibit internal personnel, such as civil servants and military personnel, from illegally assisting others in acquiring foreign citizenship or overseas permanent residency.

The article conveyed Professor Zhang Lun (張倫) of CY Cergy Paris University's view that while China needs international markets, technology, and exchanges with people for economic growth, it is extremely wary of the risks associated with the flow of people and information, and harbors an irreconcilable contradiction between openness and control.

It also mentioned Professor Zhang's view that, regarding the method of thoroughly managing the flow of people and information from the perspective of national security while permitting the flow of goods and capital, China is increasingly moving towards what could be called "soft North Koreanization."

In addition, it introduced an analysis from Professor Li Shaomin (李少民) of the University of San Francisco, stating that the intensified surveillance of personnel within the system is a manifestation of deepening mutual distrust within the regime. (Edited and Translated/Kawajiri)