Navigate China's mandatory cybersecurity review process. We guide companies through the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) security assessment—required for cross-border data transfers above regulatory thresholds.
The CAC Security Assessment is a mandatory government review for companies that need to transfer personal information or important data out of China. Introduced under the Data Security Law (DSL) and Personal Information Protection Law (PIPL), it's the strictest route for cross-border data compliance.
This is not optional. If your company meets the thresholds, you must pass the CAC assessment before transferring any data abroad—or face penalties including fines up to 50 million RMB and business suspension.
The assessment evaluates the legality, legitimacy, and necessity of your data export activities, and whether your overseas data recipient can adequately protect the data.
You must undergo CAC security assessment if any of the following applies:
Companies processing personal information of 1 million or more individuals in China.
Companies handling "important data" as defined by sector regulators.
Critical Information Infrastructure Operators (CIIOs) in key sectors.
Companies exporting personal data above annual limits.
We guide you through every step of the CAC assessment process, from initial data mapping to final approval.
Comprehensive inventory of all data you collect, process, and store in China. We classify data types, identify sensitive categories, and map cross-border flows to determine exact regulatory obligations.
Conduct the mandatory self-assessment required before CAC submission. Evaluate data export necessity, recipient security capabilities, contractual protections, and potential risks to national security and public interest.
Prepare all required submission materials including application forms, data export contracts, privacy impact assessments, security measures documentation, and overseas recipient certifications.
Submit complete application package to provincial CAC. We ensure all materials meet formal requirements to avoid rejection on procedural grounds.
CAC reviews your application. We serve as liaison, responding to follow-up questions, providing clarifications, and coordinating any required supplementary materials or meetings.
Upon approval, we help implement required controls, set up ongoing compliance monitoring, and establish re-assessment schedules (assessments valid for 2 years).
6 months
Well-organized company with clear data flows, minimal regulatory back-and-forth, straightforward data export scenario.
8-10 months
Some complexity in data architecture, moderate documentation gaps, normal review cycles with CAC clarification requests.
12+ months
Multiple data types, legacy systems, significant remediation needed, sensitive industry sectors, or novel data export scenarios.
Start early. Many companies underestimate preparation time. Beginning the process 12-18 months before planned market entry gives you buffer for unexpected delays.
Detailed mapping of all personal information and important data processed in China, with classification and cross-border flow analysis.
Comprehensive risk evaluation document meeting CAC requirements, ready for submission.
China-compliant data transfer agreements between you and overseas data recipients, based on CAC standard contractual clauses.
Complete submission materials including all forms, supporting documentation, and required certifications.
Direct communication with CAC throughout review period, handling all follow-up queries and supplementary requests.
Ongoing monitoring procedures to maintain compliance and prepare for bi-annual re-assessment.
Don't let regulatory uncertainty block your China market access. Our team has guided dozens of companies through successful CAC assessments.
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