China has submitted its draft atomic energy law for a third reading by the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress (NPC), Huang Haihua, a spokesperson for the Legislative Affairs Commission of the NPC Standing Committee, told a press conference. Chinese lawmakers started deliberating a draft atomic energy law in April, with an aim promoting the sound and sustainable development of the atomic energy industry with strengthened security.
The draft law adds new regulations in five areas. It stipulates that enterprises exporting nuclear or dual-use items will be held legally accountable under relevant laws if they violate the atomic energy law and regulations.
Based on feedback from various parties, the third draft also states that China supports the peaceful use of atomic energy, promotes sharing achievements and works to prevent and respond to the threat of nuclear terrorism while advancing the establishment of a fair, cooperative and win-win international nuclear security system.
The draft also states that China will strengthen the development of standards in the atomic energy sector and promote participation in international standardisation. It requires that the site selection, design, construction, commissioning, operation and management of nuclear reactors must comply with relevant laws and administrative regulations.
The draft mandates that nuclear facility operators must take necessary measures to prevent cyberattacks, intrusions, interference and sabotage, respond to cybersecurity incidents, and ensure the safe and stable operations of the facilities.
