Fulfilling the Promise of the Digital Age
MEDIA RELEASEJune 3, 2021Contact: Mr. Anders Halvorsen: +1 571 265-5964 E: ahalvorsen@witsa.orgWITSA Signs Multi-Association Letter on China Draft Personal Information Protection and Data Security LawsFairfax, VA: The World Information Technology and Services (WITSA) today signed a multi-association letter addressing data localization mandates and data transfer restrictions in the People’s Republic of China’s draft Data Security Law (DSL) and draft Personal Information Protection Law (PIPL). The letter raises concerns regarding certain provisions relating to data localization and data transfers in the draft legislation.The multi-association letter reflects WITSA’s existing policy principles established in its Statement of Policy on Restrictions of the Free Flow of Information Across Nationality/Regional Borders. WITSA is taking a strong stance against forced localization of data requirements as these interrupts the free flow of data that underpins the complex online networks connecting the globe in ways that threaten the cultural and economic growth potential of the Internet and Internet-based technologies.The ability to access technology and transfer data securely across international digital networks is of central importance to any company with international business activities. Cross-border data transfers support many important priorities, including international sales and marketing, transnational research and development, cybersecurity, fraud monitoring and prevention, anti-money laundering, anti-corruption, and a broad range of other activities relating to the protection of health, privacy, security, intellectual property, and regulatory compliance. To avoid prejudicing these priorities, the multi-association letter recommends that the PIPL and DSL avoid the imposition of data localization mandates, onerous data transfer restrictions, and associated data-related barriers.The signed letter can be found on the following link: https://witsa.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/China-DSL-PIPL-MultiAssociationLetter-20210602-English-Translation.pdf About WITSA: The World Information Technology and Services Alliance (WITSA) is the leading recognized international voice of the global ICT industry, whose members from over 80 countries and economies represent more than 90 percent of the world ICT market. WITSA is dedicated to advocating policies that advance industry growth and development; facilitating international trade and investment in ICT products and services; strengthening WITSA’s national industry associations; and providing members with a broad network of professional contacts.WITSA members are leaders in a globally interconnected marketplace. Because the challenges facing the ICT industry are undisputedly global in nature, WITSA members work together to achieve a shared vision on important issues of common interest. WITSA makes it possible for its members — ranging from Mongolia and Argentina to Kenya and the United States — to identify common issues and priorities, exchange valuable information, and present a united position on industry issues. For more information on WITSA, please visit www.witsa.org
