Australian bill sets 'double standard' on cybersecurity: Foreign Ministry

Beijing said on Wednesday it would like to hear the explanation regarding a bill Australia passed in December that forces technology companies to grant law enforcement and security agencies access to encrypted data.

"China is paying close attention to the development," Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang said in a daily news conference. "By forcing companies to install 'back doors' through legislation, a country is building its security and interests on the basis of violating other countries' security and citizens' privacy."

Such actions also will impose a serious impact on the market of and international cooperation in the telecommunications industry, and the industry has voiced grave concerns, Lu added.

Reuters reported in October that Facebook, Apple, Alphabet and Amazon would oppose the law and lobby lawmakers to amend the bill.

"It is baffling that relevant countries use cyber security as an excuse and hype the groundless 'security threats' from other countries or companies, while harming cyber security themselves," Lu said, referring to Australia's banning Chinese telecommunications company Huawei.    

"I would ... also like to hear the Australian government explain it," he said, when asked if he thought Australia is playing a double standard.

Australia has shut out Huawei from its 5G networks over what it called security threats, though no evidence was provided. 

Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne said in February Australia will stick to the ban and doesn't want anyone in its communications networks that has an a obligation to any other government, remarks that drew "grave concerns" from China.

"China has always attached great importance to and firmly safeguarded cyber security. It will continue to take part actively in the international cooperation over cyber security and work with all parties to build a cyberspace that is peaceful, secure, open, cooperative and orderly," Lu said.

"Also, China urges again relevant countries to provide a fair, just and non-discriminative business environment for companies from all countries, including China," he added.