JUST IN: 🇺🇸🇨🇳 US bans romantic and sexual relationships with Chinese citizens for all government employees in China.

The U.S. government has implemented a policy prohibiting American government personnel, their families, and contractors with security clearances from engaging in romantic or sexual relationships with Chinese citizens while stationed in China. This directive, enacted by departing U.S. Ambassador Nicholas Burns in January 2025, extends across U.S. missions in mainland China, including the embassy in Beijing and consulates in Guangzhou, Shanghai, Shenyang, Wuhan, and Hong Kong. Exceptions are made for pre-existing relationships, which require approval; if denied, individuals must end the relationship or leave their position. Violations of this policy will result in immediate expulsion from China.

This policy arises from congressional concerns and builds upon prior limited restrictions enacted in 2024. It reflects heightened security measures amid growing U.S.-China tensions and apprehensions over Chinese intelligence practices, including the potential use of romantic relationships to extract sensitive information. U.S. Bans Romantic and Sexual Relationships with Chinese Citizens for Government Personnel