China’s new exit-and-entry regulations took effect Tuesday, giving authorities expanded powers to restrict travel by Chinese citizens in cases involving national technology and industrial security.

The rules, announced by China’s State Council in July, allow authorities to prevent Chinese citizens from leaving the country if they violate export-control or technology import-and-export regulations in ways that could endanger industrial or technological security. The measures also provide for exit bans of six months to three years for citizens who return to China after committing illegal or criminal acts abroad that harm national security or national interests.

The regulations come as Beijing has increased scrutiny of technology companies and foreign connections involving sensitive industries. Reuters reported that the new provisions could affect Taiwanese technology professionals working in mainland China, with Taiwan officials expressing concern that the rules could give Chinese authorities greater discretion over travel restrictions. Chinese officials have said the regulations provide stronger legal protections and are intended to safeguard national security while facilitating lawful international travel.

Foreign nationals are also covered by the new rules. Individuals can be denied entry to China for one to five years if authorities determine they provided false information on visa applications.

The new regulations formalize restrictions that have previously been used in security-related cases. Reuters has reported that Chinese civil servants and employees of state-linked enterprises have faced tighter controls on private travel and scrutiny of foreign contacts in recent years. Foreign governments have also reported cases in which individuals were prevented from leaving China during security investigations.

The measures arrive as China expands controls surrounding technology exports and national security amid its competition with the United States in advanced technology. Taiwan officials have specifically raised concerns about provisions involving technology trade and export controls, while Beijing maintains that the rules are intended to protect national sovereignty, security, and development interests.