Sensitive sectors & control
Defence-adjacent, infrastructure, key tech, data-heavy assets.
China Law Key Words · FDI and National Security Review
National Security Review (NSR)
Keyword hub for China national security review of foreign investments and acquisitions—screening triggers, process themes, and coordination with antitrust.
Last reviewed 21 August 2026
The rule in 60 seconds
Start with the rule, then map it to your situation
This briefing separates the core issue from the next research and counsel steps.
Structure effects
Share vs asset deals and governance rights that change control.
Key distinction: This is general orientation. Company type, documents, location and timing can change the analysis.
Which situation are you in?
Start with the event, then test the rule
Scenario 01
Sensitive sectors & control
Defence-adjacent, infrastructure, key tech, data-heavy assets.
Next review: Open the related guides and confirm how this issue presents in your documents.
Scenario 02
Structure effects
Share vs asset deals and governance rights that change control.
Next review: Open the related guides and confirm how this issue presents in your documents.
Scenario 03
Closing risk
Build long-stops that survive dual regulatory tracks.
Next review: Open the related guides and confirm how this issue presents in your documents.
Scenario 04
vs merger control
NSR ≠ SAMR antitrust—many deals need both screens.
Next review: Open the related guides and confirm how this issue presents in your documents.
Key steps
A simple sequence for this topic
01
Sector sensitivity map
What does the target actually do?
02
Control rights review
Vetoes and board seats.
03
Data asset inventory
NSR often follows data.
04
Diligence protocols
Anti-espionage hygiene.
Review checklist
What to check before you choose the next step
Sector sensitivity map
What does the target actually do?
Control rights review
Vetoes and board seats.
Data asset inventory
NSR often follows data.
Diligence protocols
Anti-espionage hygiene.
Dual-track timeline
NSR + SAMR if needed.
Why this matters
The issue usually reaches beyond a single filing
Sensitive sectors & control
Defence-adjacent, infrastructure, key tech, data-heavy assets.
Structure effects
Share vs asset deals and governance rights that change control.
Closing risk
Build long-stops that survive dual regulatory tracks.
vs merger control
NSR ≠ SAMR antitrust—many deals need both screens.
Recommended reading path
Move from the rule to the right depth of guidance
Common situations
Recognise the issue before you choose the response
Sensitive sectors & control
Defence-adjacent, infrastructure, key tech, data-heavy assets.
Structure effects
Share vs asset deals and governance rights that change control.
Closing risk
Build long-stops that survive dual regulatory tracks.
Frequently asked questions
Questions readers commonly need answered next
Does every acquisition file NSR?
No—but sensitive sectors and control changes need early screening.
Parent?
FDI & national security hub.
Guides & articles
Practical writing from counsel and the portal editorial team on this topic
When the next step needs advice
Turn the legal issue into an actionable company plan.
Use the directory to find relevant counsel or ask a focused question through China Legal Portal.