The list of Strategic Commodities that require a license to be imported or exported to Hong Kong was updated with effect from 18 July 2006. The changes include a new measurement method for the speed of digital computers (Weighted TeraFLOPs on Adjusted Peak Performance), a relaxation of the restrictions on computer speeds, and the addition of a control on encryption systems designed to use quantum cryptography.
Quantum cryptography has generated a lot of academic interest recently, but experts, including Bruce Schneier, have suggested that it is unnecessary, "Quantum cryptography has the potential for making the strongest link, in a series of very weak links, even stronger," says Schneier.
Other specifications for control of cryptographic products remain unchanged: including the limit of 56 bits for symmetric keys and the exemption of mass market products where the “cryptographic function cannot easily be changed by the user”. Also, the Import and Export controls still only apply to tangibles, so cryptographic software downloaded from the Internet is not covered.
Five plant pathogens have also been added to the list:
