China responds to US accusations about the ‘Great Firewall’

After the release of the report of the US Trade Representative, discussions rose about the effects of China’s ‘Great Firewall’ on international trade. In response to the launch of the report, which claimed that Internet censorship in China is a barrier to trade, the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) released a statement in defence of its policies. According to the statement, ‘The aim of the internet security inspection system is to guarantee the security and controllability of information technology products and services, safeguard user information security, and strengthen market and user confidence.’ The CAC furthermore emphasised that China abides the principles and accession protocols of the World Trade Organisation and establishes a fair market environment for foreign enterprises.