NIST Requests Information on Chinese Participation in International Standards Development

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has issued a Request for Information (RFI) on how Chinese national standards policies impact the development of international standards for emerging technology. The request comes after the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) signed into law early this year directed NIST to study and make recommendations regarding Chinese engagement in standards development bodies around the world.  The RFI also seeks information on how to bolster United States public and private sector participation in international standards-setting bodies.

In 2015, China introduced its “Made in China 2025” strategic plan for reducing the country’s dependence on foreign technology and promote Chinese technological manufacturers in the global marketplace. More recently, China introduced a new “China Standards 2035,” which outlines how China will work to set global standards for emerging technologies in areas such as artificial intelligence and advanced communications technology.

In the United States, the National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act (NTTAA) directs Federal agencies to adopt voluntary consensus standards wherever possible, avoiding the development of unique government standards and supporting the development of a private sector standards enterprise across a wide variety of industries. For additional information on U.S. standards policies and best practices, visit: https://www.nist.gov/standardsgov/what-we-do/federal-policy-standards/key-federal-directives

Comments must be submitted by December 6, 2021. For more information visit: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2021/11/04/2021-24090/study-on-peoples-republic-of-china-prc-policies-and-influence-in-the-development-of-international.