China Tightens Grip on Data Integrity with Amended Statistics Law

China's legislative body has passed an amended statistics law to combat data fraud. This move aims to enhance data reliability amid ongoing scepticism. The law's approval by the National People's Congress promises stricter penalties for falsifying data. Analysts remain cautious about the authenticity of Chinese statistics.

China's top legislative body has approved an amended statistics law, the official Xinhua news agency reported on Friday, marking the latest effort to tackle persistent data fraud issues and address widespread scepticism about the reliability of data in the world's second-largest economy.

The standing committee of the National People's Congress sanctioned the law, although detailed specifics were not provided. Earlier this week, state media reported that the amended law aims to bolster the prevention of statistical fraud and increase penalties for officials who falsify economic data.

Persistent statistical fraud has undermined the authenticity and accuracy of Chinese data, despite previous sanctions. Analysists have voiced concerns about the reliability of these statistics, particularly given China's attempts to mitigate fears of an economic slowdown. The government has pledged to investigate and penalize any manipulation of economic data to boost data quality.

(With inputs from agencies.)