Decoding China's Security Rules: Navigating Risks in Business and Diplomacy

China has implemented new regulations outlining the roles and responsibilities of its embassies and consulates in overseas security affairs, as part of its broader strategy to increase its security presence abroad. These regulations raise concerns about potential transnational repression and the expansion of China's security and intelligence apparatuses. Host countries should establish clear boundaries and communication channels with non-state-affiliated Chinese nationals to assess security risks. They should also clarify what constitutes "special circumstances" and what unilateral activities are permitted under existing law enforcement cooperation agreements. It is crucial for host countries to prevent the PRC from exploiting gray areas and building a larger security presence that could enable transnational repression.