On October 31, 2024, the Hong Kong China Network Security Association, in collaboration with corporate member Hewlett Packard Enterprise, successfully host the Joint Seminar of the Data Privacy Committee and the China Affair Committee. The event attracted numerous cybersecurity experts and scholars from Hong Kong and the mainland, who gathered to discuss the legal regulations of cybersecurity in both regions, innovative development paths for the industry, and potential future challenges.
At the beginning of the event, Mr. David Ip, the founding chairman of the HKCNSA, emphasized in his speech that the cybersecurity of critical infrastructure in Hong Kong urgently needs enhancement, as it is crucial for the overall security and stability of the nation. He highlighted the importance of industry collaboration and the association’s role in promoting the construction of critical infrastructure in Hong Kong, particularly in the area of cybersecurity. Furthermore, he pointed out that there are differences in the needs and standards for infrastructure across different regions, and that Hong Kong should formulate corresponding policies based on its market demands while aligning with international standards to promote the overall modernization and security enhancement of its infrastructure.
David delivering his speech
During the seminar, Ms. Chandy Ye, the vice president of the association and director of the Data Privacy Committee, introduced the legal framework of cybersecurity in the mainland and its practical implications. She elaborated on the “3+1” legal framework for cyber data security, which includes key regulations such as the Cyber Data Security Management Regulations (effective January 1, 2025), the Cyber Security Law, the Data Security Law, and the Personal Information Protection Law. She further explained the legislative understanding framework in the mainland and emphasized the importance of data classification and graded protection. Additionally, Ms. Ye discussed the emergency response requirements for cyber data processors in the event of security incidents, such as taking immediate remedial actions, promptly informing users, and reporting to relevant authorities, providing valuable insights for attendees on how to respond to cybersecurity incidents.
Chandy delivering his speech
Moreover, Mr. Noble Yin, the director of the China Affair Committee of the association, provided an in-depth introduction to the relevant aspects of the cybersecurity grading protection system and offered valuable suggestions for the future construction direction of cybersecurity in Hong Kong. Mr. Yin emphasized that the mainland has established a comprehensive legal system, including the Cyber Security Law, the Data Security Law, the Personal Information Protection Law, and the upcoming Cyber Data Security Management Regulations, which provide strong legal guarantees for maintaining national cybersecurity. He pointed out that, in contrast, there are still gaps in Hong Kong’s cybersecurity regulations, and there is an urgent need to develop laws related to cybersecurity that are suited to the local context. Additionally, Mr. Yin called for strengthening the local technological innovation and incubation environment in Hong Kong to provide robust support for the development of the local cybersecurity market, enabling it to address various future challenges in the field.
Noble delivering his speech
This seminar established an efficient communication platform, facilitating in-depth exchanges and cooperation between cybersecurity experts and scholars from Hong Kong and the mainland. By sharing the latest legal regulations, technological innovations, and practical experiences, participants gained a deeper understanding of the current state and future development of the cybersecurity industry in both regions.
Looking ahead, the Hong Kong China Network Security Association will continue to serve as a bridge and link, organizing more similar exchange seminars to enhance the understanding of cybersecurity and data privacy laws among professionals in Hong Kong, while strengthening cooperation and communication in the field of cybersecurity between the mainland and Hong Kong. We look forward to collaborating with more enterprises and institutions to jointly promote innovation and progress in the cybersecurity industry, providing solid support for the development of the digital economy in Hong Kong and Macau.
