China Accelerates Removal of Microsoft Windows 10 from State Agencies

• •China is removing Microsoft Windows 10 from state agencies earlier than planned.
• •The directive is driven by data security concerns and aims to reduce reliance on foreign tech.
• •Domestic software companies have seen stock surges following the announcement.

China's Ministry of State Security has ordered state-linked entities to uninstall a customized version of Microsoft Windows 10, advancing the planned discontinuation from February 2027 to several months earlier due to data security concerns. This version, developed by C&M Information Technologies (CMIT), is tailored to meet Chinese security requirements. The directive, which caught some agency staff off guard, aligns with China's broader strategy to reduce reliance on foreign technology. Microsoft stated it is unaware of any security incidents affecting the software, which continues to receive updates. The move has led to significant stock increases for domestic software companies, as Beijing pushes for the adoption of local alternatives. This decision also follows previous bans on foreign-branded PCs and Apple's iPhones in sensitive state sectors.