Data Sovereignty and Digital Trade: China’s Legal Strategy under CPTPP and DEPA Frameworks

This study employs a qualitative case study analysis approach to demonstrate how the general exception clauses have been integrated into CPTPP and DEPA frameworks in lieu of digital trade. Simultaneously, it focuses on China’ regulatory model. The study examines the legal flexibility offered by these agreements and evaluates the compatibility with China’s data governance laws such as PIPL, DSL and Cybersecurity laws with international obligations. The study finds that exception do account for public interest protections, yet China’s broad security justifications posit a serious challenge. The study concludes that strategic engagement and modular compliance are essential to balance digital sovereignty with international cooperation in an increasingly data-driven global economy.