Foreign Surveying Control Tightened in China

China will increase the supervision of foreigners who conduct surveys and map areas of the country. Foreign organisations and individuals, who engage in surveying and mapping in scientific research and teaching programs, travel or exploration, must obtain approval from the government and accept supervision, the State Bureau of Survey and Mapping said.

The number of foreigners conducting surveying and mapping in China is on the rise and many field projects have been carried out illegally, which have threatened the security of the country, according to the state bureau. The Chinese law on surveying and mapping states that foreigners must cooperate with a Chinese partner and the activities must not involve state secrets or jeopardize national security.

The bureau notice said that foreigners who illegally survey, gather and publish geographical information on China will be prosecuted. Chinese partners or translators will be fined if they fail to stop illegal mapping activities when they have detected any.

Details of regulations on how foreigners can conduct surveying and mapping in China will be announced soon by the State Bureau of Survey and Mapping.