Unless you can find some Chinese law that states that using a VPN is illega,l

Not meaning to disagree, nor be divisive, nor am I being mendacious.

The problem is china does not have rule of law, so therefore, knowing the EXACT law or legal interpretation on this issue is something that is difficult to finalize imho. It seems a somewhat gray area, at least to me.

But I will concede until as you say, someone who has proper knowledge posts here.

cheers on,
CT