Earlier this year, the General Office of the State Council of China released new “Measures for the Administration of Scientific Data” in order to optimize the policies and processes of collecting, storing, securing and sharing data. The draft defines “scientific data” as including data that are generated through applied research, basic research and pilot tests, as well as raw data derived from monitoring, investigating and testing for the purpose of research.

The draft regulation indicates that any scientific data within the country be submitted to the “lead program entity,” which is not yet established, for approval before publication. The data will be able to be shared with international collaborators, save in cases involving “state secrets,” in which a special form of approval will be required from the science and technology ministry. Furthermore, the draft states that before scientific data intended for publication can be released outside of China, it must first undergo a review process by authorities.

While many experts agree that China needs improved data security and sharing policies, the draft regulation is causing concern that the new regulation provides Chinese authorities with too much power in regards to controlling the collection and output of scientific data in the country. International collaborations may also become compromised with the increase of red tape surrounding data sharing.

Source: University World News