Key practical points:
• State secrets are classified into levels (top secret, secret, confidential) with a defined circle of access.
• Collecting, holding, transmitting, or publishing state secrets without authorization is prohibited, including online.
• Secrets may cover defence, economic, scientific, and other information if officially classified.
• Staff handling classified information are bound by confidentiality duties and post-employment restrictions.
• Some 'work-sensitive' information may be restricted even if not formally classified as a secret.
• Breaching the law can lead to serious administrative or criminal liability.
💬 General consulting
Law on Guarding State Secrets of China · Yalla China
中华人民共和国保守国家秘密法 / Law on Guarding State Secrets of the PRC
Enacted: 2024-02-27 ✅ Effective: 2024-05-01
📝 Overview
This law governs how state secrets are defined, protected, classified, and who may access them. Its current revised version took effect in 2024. It is relevant to anyone working with government bodies or sensitive information.
This is general information only, not legal advice. For your specific case, consult a licensed lawyer.
📜 The law text / key provisions
💬 Practical reading
💬 This is a general reading/opinion for orientation — not the official legal text nor legal advice.
If your work brings you near sensitive government or industrial information, do not copy, share, or upload it without clear authorization. When unsure of an item's classification, ask the competent body before acting. This is general orientation, not legal advice.
📎 Official source
National People's Congress / npc.gov.cn
🕒 Updated: 16 March 2026