China updates regulation on economic crime investigation

China on Tuesday published a revised regulation on police investigations into economic crimes.

The revision was jointly issued by the Supreme People's Procuratorate (SPP) and the Ministry of Public Security to replace the 2005 version.

Clarifications and guidance were given on topics such as police jurisdiction, registration of cases, use of compulsory measures, obtaining evidence and the disposal of relevant assets.

The revision highlighted the protection of human rights and property rights, with 15 of the 80 articles devoted to the matter.

It also required the police to conduct the investigation with proper timing and methods to minimize interference in normal economic activities.

Procuratorate supervision of investigations was also strengthened to avoid potential abuse of power by the police.

The new regulation will enter into force on Jan. 1, 2018.