China's Foreign Ministry said on September 13 that the country is monitoring media reports about security issues related to iPhones but has not yet issued any regulations to ban the purchase or use of mobile phones from foreign brands.

The Wall Street Journal previously reported that China had banned government officials from using iPhones at work. Bloomberg later reported that Beijing planned to expand the ban to government-backed agencies and state-owned companies.

Speaking at a regular press conference on September 13, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Mao Ning said that many media outlets have reported on security incidents involving Apple's iPhones.

However, she asserted that China has not issued any laws, regulations or policy documents prohibiting the purchase and use of smartphones made by foreign brands such as Apple.

“The Chinese government attaches great importance to information and cyber security, and treats both domestic and foreign-invested enterprises equally,” Mao affirmed.

According to Ms. Mao, China has always had an open attitude towards foreign-invested enterprises, welcoming them to seize development opportunities and sharing the fruits of economic development here.

China also hopes that all mobile phone companies operating in China will strictly comply with the country's Data Security Law and Personal Information Protection Law, as well as other relevant laws and regulations, and strengthen information security management and protection of consumer data in their mobile phones, Mao added .

Nguyen Tuyet (According to Global Times, Barron's, Reuters)