Officials with the Ministry of Public Security say their second generation ID cards were developed exclusively in China and that the security of personal data is ensured.

They made the assurances after recent media reports that the new generation ID card was made by a Japanese company.

The ministry denies such reports, but does admit that some foreign brand printers, such as Xerox and Hewlett Pakard, were chosen in the making of the new card in order to guarantee its quality.

Security officials emphasize their assertion that all second generation cards are made in designated institutions under the ministry. They stress that the card-making process is monitored and they will exert utmost effort to ensure the security of personal data.

(CRI August 26, 2004)