对外贸易法修订拟不限最低罚款数额

Core Viewpoint - The draft amendment to the Foreign Trade Law aims to enhance the legal framework supporting the development of foreign trade, incorporating new measures to adapt to recent changes in the trade environment and promote high-quality growth in foreign trade [1][2]. Group 1: Key Modifications in the Draft Amendment - The draft includes provisions for the state to promote the construction of a cross-border financial service system based on the needs of foreign trade development [1]. - It introduces measures for the state to facilitate international recognition of digital certificates and electronic signatures, thereby improving the level of trade facilitation [1]. - The draft emphasizes the need for the state to support the development of product standards, certification, and labeling systems related to green trade [1]. - It also includes provisions for enhancing the functions and service levels of trade promotion platforms [1]. - The draft supports the construction of a talent pool for foreign trade to provide necessary human resources for high-quality development [1]. Group 2: Legal Responsibility and Enforcement - The draft amendment adjusts relevant clauses regarding fines, removing the minimum fine limit to allow authorities to apply penalties based on specific case circumstances [1]. - It includes measures to counteract foreign individuals and organizations that threaten China's sovereignty, security, and development interests, allowing for restrictions on their foreign trade activities [3]. - The draft prohibits any individual or organization from providing support or assistance to evade countermeasures, with legal consequences for violations [3]. Group 3: Historical Context and Reform Initiatives - The current Foreign Trade Law has been in effect since 1994, with significant revisions in 2004, 2016, and 2022, reflecting ongoing reforms in the foreign trade sector [2]. - The new round of amendments aims to elevate successful reform initiatives, such as the negative list management system for cross-border service trade and the encouragement of digital trade, to a legal status to ensure effective implementation [2]. - The previous draft emphasized optimizing the foreign trade environment, enhancing intellectual property protection related to foreign trade, and establishing a trade adjustment assistance system to stabilize supply chains [2].