WIC holds seminar on cross-border data flow study

The World Internet Conference Data Working Group held a seminar on comparative study of cross-border data flow policies in Beijing on Jan 10. Nearly 20 experts attended the seminar, including members of the working group and representatives from data-related research institutes. 

The World Internet Conference Data Working Group holds a seminar on the Framework for the Comparative Study of Cross-Border Data Flow Policies in Beijing on Jan 10. [Photo/wicinternet.org]

The research team presented the background, main considerations and core content of the comparative study and future work plans. The study aims to systematically analyze similarities and differences in the policies and regulations of major global economies and relevant international organizations regarding cross-border data flow. By summarizing the characteristics and evolutionary trends of various policy paradigms, the study intends to propose initiatives and policy tools that will promote global cooperation in cross-border data flow.

During the discussion session, experts from institutions including Tsinghua University, IBM, DBAPP Security, SAP, Cisco, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, China Academy of Information and Communications Technology and China Mobile Research Institute provided feedback on the study’s objectives, framework, target audience and expected outcomes.

Participants agreed on the necessity of conducting such a comparative study in light of the increasing global focus on data as a critical resource and the growing demand for cross-border data flow. They suggested taking into account the policy trends and timeliness of various countries and regions in regard to data flow, analyzing and presenting existing policy paradigms, and forming perspectives and recommendations accordingly. They expressed hope that the study would provide valuable insights and tools for governments, industry organizations and enterprises, contributing to building a global consensus on data cooperation and sharing the benefits of the global digital economy.