China: Creation of Accession Working Group for China's application to join the Digital Economy Partnership Agreement (DEPA)

On 18 August 2022, the Joint Committee of the Digital Economy Partnership Agreement (DEPA) decided to formally start the accession process for China after the country applied to join DEPA on 1 November 2021. A working group chaired by Chile and composed of government representatives from the three member states (Chile, New Zealand and Singapore) will review China's application for accession and discuss the country's ability to meet DEPA standards and commitments, including any additional changes to its domestic laws and regulations that will be required. The DEPA creates a common framework for data protection, establishes common rules on digital trade and removes digital barriers for businesses.