China's security authorities say they may crack down on foreign businesses' collection of meteorological data, under the country's revised anti-espionage law. This and other applications of the law have raised concerns among foreign firms in the country.

The Ministry of State Security discussed specific cases related to the law in social media posts over two days through Thursday. The revised law took effect in July.

One of the cases involves what the ministry calls illegal collection of data at hundreds of foreign-related meteorological observation sites across China and transmission of such data to other countries. The ministry said it has immediately dealt with such activities.

It also stressed that the law has no impact on legitimate investment and operations by foreign companies in China.

The ministry added that the powers of authorities in implementing the law are clearly defined, so there will be no arbitrary detention of employees.

It apparently hopes that its posts will help dispel foreign businesses' concerns about the law and reverse the trend of dwindling investment.