China has introduced new regulations tightening controls on entry and exit from the country, with authorities empowered to impose travel restrictions in circumstances considered to pose risks to national security.

The regulations, which take effect on Tuesday, allow Chinese authorities to prevent citizens from leaving the country if they violate export controls or technology trade rules in ways considered capable of threatening industrial or technological security.

Chinese citizens who commit illegal or criminal acts abroad that are deemed harmful to national security or national interests may also face exit restrictions lasting between six months and three years after returning to China.

Under the new rules, immigration authorities may advise Chinese citizens against travelling to countries or regions classified as high-risk by the government.

The regulations also empower authorities to question travellers about the purpose of their journeys and, in certain circumstances, inspect electronic data stored on mobile devices.

Foreign nationals are also affected by the new framework. Those who submit false information when applying for Chinese visas abroad or at the border could be refused entry or face bans lasting between one and five years.

The measures reflect Beijing’s expanding use of national security considerations in regulating cross-border movement, particularly around technology, data and activities considered capable of affecting national interests.

China’s broader national security framework has already raised concerns among foreign governments, with the United States warning that Chinese authorities have broad powers to impose exit bans and detain or interrogate foreign nationals under national security and counterespionage laws.