UK achieves new status in global data privacy certification programme

The UK has become the first country in the world to achieve new status in global data privacy certification programme

This is because the UK has been granted Associate status in the Global Cross Border Privacy Rules (CBPR) Forum.

The Forum works to support international data transfers between member countries, safeguarding standards on data protection and privacy.

This international organisation is dedicated to facilitating secure data transfers between member nations while upholding stringent data protection and privacy standards.

UK’s associate status in CBPR forum promotes collaboration on data flows

The newly acquired Associate status empowers the UK to foster cooperation with member countries such as the United States, Canada, Mexico, Japan, the Republic of Korea, the Philippines, Singapore, Chinese Taipei, and Australia in the realm of international data flows.

This association opens up avenues for the UK to actively contribute to shaping global data transfer standards.

Trusted data transfers as a key contributor to UK’s services exports

In today’s interconnected global business landscape, the movement of both customer and company information across borders has become an indispensable element.

In 2021, data-enabled services accounted for a staggering 93% of the UK’s services exports, underscoring the vital role of trusted data exchanges in driving economic growth.

Recognising the significance of this aspect, the UK government is committed to adopting a pragmatic approach that facilitates new innovations while safeguarding the security of personal data.

Focus on Data security: UK’s practical approach

Sir John Whittingdale, the Minister for Data and Digital Infrastructure, highlighted the significance of the UK’s association with the Global CBPR Forum, emphasising the need for a practical and effective framework for global data transfers.

The minister emphasised the paramount importance of data safety and security during international data movement, urging collaboration with international partners to design solutions that benefit all stakeholders.

The UK’s high data protection standards position it as a valuable contributor to the development of secure data transfer standards on the global stage.

The Global CBPR system is a government-endorsed data privacy certification programme that allows companies to demonstrate adherence to internationally recognised data privacy safeguards.

Several prominent multinational corporations, including Apple, IBM, and Mastercard, have already obtained certification under this framework.

Notably, the CBPR system stands out as one of the few entities actively supporting secure data flow across multiple countries, dismantling barriers and working towards universal data transfer standards.

Data Protection and Digital Information Bill

Following its departure from the European Union, the UK has capitalised on the opportunity to establish a new data rights regime through the Data Protection and Digital Information Bill.

This legislation alleviates burdens on businesses, aligning with the government’s priority of fostering economic growth while unlocking new avenues for scientific and technological innovation.

In April 2022, the CBPR Forum expanded beyond the Asia-Pacific region, leading to the acceptance of the UK as an Associate member—the first jurisdiction to receive this newly created status.

Prior to the UK’s official involvement, the country co-hosted a workshop with the United States in London last April.

The purpose of the workshop was to explore strategies for enhancing the compatibility between the CBPR system and the data privacy frameworks of different nations.