As the 2026 APEC conference draws near, Shenzhen has witnessed a citywide training frenzy, with programs ranging from civil servants to community residents, and from merchants to food delivery riders, all unfolding in full swing. Behind this enthusiasm for universal participation, however, lie numerous legal risk points that are easy to overlook. As a lawyer who has long served clients in foreign-related matters, I believe it is necessary to offer a professional reminder to all parties involved in this grand event.

Legal Red Lines in Foreign-Related Services: Compliance Requirements Behind Etiquette Training

Shenzhen has formed a 455-person multilingual emergency service team and conducted foreign affairs etiquette training, which is undoubtedly a good measure to enhance the city's image. But from a legal perspective, the legal issues involved in foreign-related services are far more complex than imagined.

First, the protection of personal information in international interactions must not be overlooked. When receiving foreign guests, volunteers and staff may come into contact with sensitive data such as passport information and travel itineraries. According to the Personal Information Protection Law, the processing of personal information shall follow the principles of lawfulness, legitimacy, and necessity, and excessive collection is prohibited. Training should clearly instruct volunteers not to photograph or disseminate images of foreign guests without authorization, nor to use personal information for non-service purposes.

Secondly, foreign-related contracts and intellectual property issues also require attention. When merchants participate in APEC-related activities, if they involve the use of the APEC logo or related intellectual property, they must obtain official authorization; otherwise, they may constitute infringement. The Shenzhen market regulatory authorities have recently also stepped up law enforcement inspections related to the use of APEC logos. Merchants should proactively check whether their promotional materials are compliant.

Legal Boundaries in the Community Training Boom: From "AI Night School" to "Cultural Market"

The "AI Night School" in Shuibei Community combines English training with jewelry livestreaming, while the Shekou Cultural Market integrates multicultural elements. These innovative formats do make training more down-to-earth. However, beyond the excitement, legal boundaries need to be clearly defined.

In terms of training content, courses involving cross-border live streaming and e-commerce should incorporate compliance knowledge. For example, when selling jewelry to overseas consumers, the rules of the E-commerce Law regarding cross-border consumption must be followed, including return and exchange policies and consumer rights protection. If training teaches "high-traffic" techniques, it should also avoid illegal practices such as false advertising and fake orders; otherwise, it may lead to administrative penalties.

In addition, personal information collected from trainees during community training, such as names and contact details, must comply with the requirements of the Personal Information Protection Law. Training institutions should establish confidentiality systems to prevent information leakage. Previously, there have been cases in some places where training institutions resold trainee information. Training institutions in Shenzhen should take this as a warning.

Legal Insights for Nationwide Participation: A Compliance Guide from Volunteers to Merchants

For the general public and merchants, participating in APEC is both an honor and a responsibility. From a legal perspective, I offer the following suggestions:

First, volunteer services need clear rights and responsibilities. When volunteers provide services, if accidental injuries occur, how should liability be allocated? It is suggested that organizing parties purchase personal accident insurance for volunteers and sign service agreements to clarify the rights and obligations of both parties. Shenzhen already has relevant cases supporting the protection of volunteers' rights and interests, but prevention beforehand is more important.

Second, merchants should pay attention to contract review in foreign-related business operations. During the APEC period, the number of overseas merchants increases, bringing more trading opportunities, but contract risks also rise accordingly. It is recommended that merchants focus on reviewing payment methods, delivery deadlines, and dispute resolution clauses when signing contracts, and consult professional lawyers when necessary.

Third, in activities such as cultural markets, the sale of products like food and handcrafted items must comply with the requirements of the Food Safety Law and the Product Quality Law. Especially for imported ingredients, quarantine certificates should be inspected to avoid losing more for the sake of a small gain.

APEC is an excellent opportunity to showcase Shenzhen's law-based and internationalized business environment. Guangdong Zhiming Law Firm has long focused on foreign-related legal affairs. If you need professional support on APEC-related legal matters, you are welcome to contact us for consultation. Let us join hands, with law as our shield, to ensure the complete success of this grand event.