China to implement stricter exit and entry regulations

China is implementing new exit and entry regulations set to take effect on September 15. The State Council's new rules allow authorities to prohibit Chinese nationals from leaving the country if they are deemed a threat to national industrial or technological security. Overseas Chinese who are perceived to harm national interests may face exit bans ranging from six months to three years upon their return.

Reports from travelers indicate that customs controls have already intensified at various airports. Witnesses have described increased scrutiny, including the mandatory unlocking and inspection of mobile phones and social media accounts. Some travelers have reported being detained for questioning or being turned away from flights.

Internal documents suggest that these heightened surveillance and control methods, including digital monitoring and physical passport management, have been modeled after border control systems previously utilized in specific regions like Xinjiang.