On February 3, 2026, eight departments, headed by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, jointly rolled out the Security Guidelines for Automobile Data Export (2026 Edition). This move is aimed at fostering the creation of a streamlined, user-friendly, and secure framework for the cross-border movement of automobile data.

These guidelines are designed to govern the actions of automobile data processors who are involved in the overseas provision of automobile data. They specifically target three key types of data export behaviors:

• Firstly, the transfer of data collected or generated within China to overseas destinations.
• Secondly, the scenario where data remains stored domestically but can be queried, retrieved, downloaded, or exported by overseas entities, organizations, or individuals.
• Thirdly, the overseas processing of personal information belonging to natural persons residing within China, in line with other activities outlined in the Personal Information Protection Law of the People's Republic of China.

The guidelines delve into various scenarios pertinent to automobile research and development, design, and manufacturing. They refine the criteria for identifying important data, clarify methodologies for conducting security assessments prior to data export, and outline the process for entering into standard contracts for the export of personal information. By doing so, they provide enterprises with a roadmap for conducting data export activities in a standardized and secure manner, ultimately elevating the level of security protection afforded to automobile data.