The US government has quietly enacted a sweeping ban prohibiting American government personnel in China, as well as their family members and contractors with security clearances, from engaging in any romantic or sexual relationships with Chinese citizens, sources have learned.  

The directive, which was implemented in January by then-US Ambassador Nicholas Burns before his departure, represents an unprecedented restriction on personal relationships for American personnel stationed abroad. While some US agencies already had strict regulations on such relationships, a blanket “non-fraternization” policy has not been seen publicly since the Cold War.  

The decision to expand the ban reportedly came after members of Congress expressed concerns last summer that previous restrictions were too lenient. Initially, US personnel were only barred from relationships with Chinese citizens employed as guards and support staff at the US Embassy and consulates. However, Burns broadened the rule to cover all Chinese citizens in China just days before President Donald Trump took office in January.  

The policy applies to all US diplomatic missions in mainland China, including the embassy in Beijing and consulates in Guangzhou, Shanghai, Shenyang, and Wuhan, as well as the American consulate in Hong Kong. It does not affect US personnel stationed outside of China.  

The only exception is for personnel who had pre-existing relationships with Chinese citizens before the policy was enacted. These individuals can apply for an exemption, but if denied, they must either end the relationship or leave their position. Those found in violation of the rule will be ordered to leave China immediately.  

Although the policy was communicated to American personnel in China both verbally and electronically in January, it has not been publicly announced. The State Department declined to comment on the matter, and the National Security Council referred inquiries back to the department. Burns, now vice chair of The Cohen Group consultancy, did not respond to a request for comment.  

The move signals a significant tightening of security measures amid ongoing tensions between Washington and Beijing, with growing concerns over espionage and foreign influence operations.