zhōng guó中国xiū dìng修订《guó fáng国防dòng yuán动员fǎ法》
China's revised National Defense Mobilization Law will take effect on October 1.
The new law states that when the country needs it, the government can turn economic and social resources into national defense capabilities. It can also use or acquire civilian supplies and equipment in accordance with the law.
The scope includes transportation, communications, finance, technology, factory production, and online services.
If stored supplies are insufficient, local governments can requisition civilian resources. Some resources may only be used temporarily, while others may not be returned.
The new law also expands the scope of personnel mobilization.
Male and female citizens who meet the age requirements may need to take part in training, transportation, medical care, or other national defense work.
Analysts believe these changes are related to modern warfare, because war needs not only soldiers, but also drones, industrial production, technical personnel, and stable supplies.
Some people believe the new law may be preparing for a future conflict in the Taiwan Strait. Others say that changing the law does not mean that war will happen soon.
For Taiwanese and foreign companies operating in mainland China, the new law may increase the risk that their property, technology, and personnel will be called upon.