Navigating Cross-Border Data Rules: A Practical Guide for EU SMEs

Tags
  • Date
    16 May 2024
  • Beijing Time
    16:00 - 17:30
  • Brussels Time
    10:00 - 11:30
  • Location
    Online & Beijing
  • Venue
    European Chamber Beijing Offices
  • Open to
    All European SMEs
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The Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) has recently introduced the “Regulations on Promoting and Regulating Cross-Border Data Flows”, which came into effect on 22 March 2024, replacing previous regulations from 2022. These new Regulations bring about significant changes, such as relaxed timelines, reduced documentation requirements, and exemptions for data transfer, especially concerning employee data. They also provide more flexible thresholds for standard contracts and security assessments. Additionally, free trade zones now have the authority to create their own negative lists for data transfer activities.

Despite the perceived relaxation and clarity brought by the new Regulations, it is crucial to emphasise that stringent compliance requirements persist. Factors like cybersecurity, data security, and Personal Information Protection (PIP) rules are still strictly enforced, necessitating compliance efforts like data mapping, legal documentation, and privacy policies.

To shed light on these developments, the EU SME Centre and European Union Chamber of Commerce in China are organising a workshop to explore the key provisions of the new Regulations. Industry experts will share insights on the significant business implications for EU SMEs and offer practical guidance on the steps businesses should take to adhere to the new Regulations.

Join us in Beijing or online on 16 May to understand the impact of the new Regulations on your business and learn actionable measures to ensure compliance with the evolving data landscape.

This free event will be held in English. It is open to all interested SMEs from EU Member States and countries participating in the Single Market Programme.

Agenda (Beijing Time)

15:30 – 16:00

Registration at the venue
For onsite participants in Beijing

16:00 – 16:05

Opening remarks
Liam Jia, Team Leader, EU SME Centre

16:05 – 16:35

Overview and Key Provisions of the New Regulations 
Barbara Li, Partner, Reed Smith Beijing Office

16:35 – 17:00

Overview of the Obligations and Requirements for SMEs, Changes Brought by the New Regulations
Nathaniel Rushforth, Senior Data Security & Compliance Consultant Shanghai Office, Dezan Shira & Associates

17:00 – 17:25

Panel discussion and Q&A
European Companies’ Perspectives on the New Regulations
Moderator:
Liam Jia, Team Lead, EU SME Centre

17:25 – 17:30

Closing remarks

Speakers
Barbara Li
Partner, Reed Smith Beijing Office

Barbara is a seasoned partner based in Beijing with nearly thirty years of experience in senior legal roles at top international firms in Beijing and London. She also has a background in business consultancy services at PwC. Barbara specializes in advising international and Chinese companies on conducting business in China and globally, focusing on complex M&As, joint ventures, and foreign direct investment in various industries. She has a particular interest in the cyber, data, technology, and FinTech sectors, with expertise in navigating China’s evolving legal landscape. Barbara is recognized as a Certified Information Privacy Professional and is highly regarded in the Chinese market as an eminent data/tech lawyer. She has received numerous accolades and awards in the legal industry and is a sought-after speaker at international conferences. She served as the vice chair of the Cybersecurity Sub-Working Group and the Construction Working Group of the EU Chamber of Commerce in China for several years.

Nathaniel Rushforth
Senior Data Security & Compliance Consultant Shanghai Office, Dezan Shira & Associates

Nathaniel Rushforth is Dezan Shira & Associates’ Senior Data Security & Compliance Consultant, based in Shanghai. He holds a Juris Doctor and a Bachelor’s in computer science.

Prior to joining DSA, Nathaniel gained more than a decade of experience as a practicing lawyer, specializing in tech-related IP, cybersecurity, and China-related data compliance matters.

Nathaniel’s educational and practical background in computer engineering, software, and regulatory compliance allow him to engage with global companies to assess and solve compliance problems related to their businesses in China.

Register
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