CHINA

China Stresses Soon-to-Launch National Digital ID Will Be Voluntary

Published: May. 27, 2025 2:17 p.m. GMT+8

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China plans to launch a national digital ID system in July that aims to improve public security management. Photo: VCG

China is set to implement a national digital identification system in July that aims to improve public security management, protect personal data and support the digital economy, according to the public security ministry.

The new rules of the digital ID system were released Friday by six central government bodies, including the Ministry of Public Security, the Cyberspace Administration of China, and the Ministry of Civil Affairs.

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China will launch a national digital ID system in July 2024, intended to improve public security and support the digital economy.
Registration for the digital ID is voluntary, not mandatory, with measures to ensure equal access for non-users and stronger data protection.
Experts caution that voluntary usage could become de facto mandatory, raising concerns about privacy and personal freedom online.

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