How to Start a Business in China

The opportunity to make your business boom in China.

Setting up a company in China can be a complex and time-consuming process, especially for foreign businesses that are unfamiliar with the local legal and regulatory environment. We offer professional China company formation and tax advisory services to help you navigate the entire process and succeed in the Chinese market.

 

Our team of experienced Chinese lawyers has extensive experience in helping clients set up and operate businesses in China. As a leading law firm in China, we can provide guidance and assistance in all aspects of company formation, including choosing the right legal structure, registering your company with the relevant authorities, obtaining the necessary licenses and permits, and complying with local regulations. We can also advise on how to optimize your tax position and minimize your tax burden based on the specific needs and goals of your business.

 

Whether you are looking to set up a new company in China or expand an existing business, our team of Chinese-speaking lawyers will be happy to assist you. Our lawyers are fluent in Chinese and have a deep understanding of Chinese business culture, enabling them to excel in dealing with the unique challenges that may arise during the company formation process.

 

We pride ourselves on providing personalized, high-quality legal services to our clients. We will deeply understand your business goals and needs and work closely with you to develop the most effective strategy to achieve those goals. Contact us today to learn more about our full range of legal services for companies in China. Our goal is to provide our clients with comprehensive legal support to help them navigate the complex Chinese legal environment and achieve success.

One-stop China Company Setup Services

One-stop solutions in line with Chinese company registration & market entries.

邮件_o.png

Trading Company Setup

A trading company can conduct import andexport activities in China. This companystructure is ideal for businesses that sourcegoods from China for worldwide re-sell, orintroduce international products and brandsinto the Chinese market.

数量减少_o.png

Consulting Company Setup

A consulting company can conduct service-based activities in China. This companystructure is ideal for businesses that engagein education, language teaching, softwaredevelopment,technology support, or otherprofessional services.

瞄准.png

Logistic CompanySetup

A logistics company can conducttransportation operations in China.Thisstructure is ideal for businesses streamlininglogistics processes within China or managingthe coordination ofinternational shipmentsas freight forwarders, etc.

3发票申请船代.png

E-Commerce Shop Setup

An E-Commerce company can conduct onlinesales and operations in China.This structureis ideal for businesses aiming to sell productson platforms like Taobao, T-mall, Pinduoduo.JD.com, Douyin, Alibaba, AliEpxress, Lazada,Shoppee, and Temu, etc.

08质量-线性 (1).png

Investment Company Setup

An investment company can conductinvestment activities in China.This structureis ideal for businesses managing investmentssuch as portfolio management, assetmanagement,insurance, stocks, andinvestment advisory, etc.

不符合.png

Branch Office Setup

A rep offce acts as a liaison for a foreigncompany in China. This structure is ideal forthose only do market research, customersupport, and establishing business contactswithout engaging in direct business salesand operations.

Chinese Lawyer & Attorney FAQs

We offer detailed advisory to answer most of your questions about WFOE/JV/RO.

Can I incorporate a company in China as a foreign investor?

Are you a foreign investor looking to do business in China? Our team of experienced Chinese lawyers can help you navigate the process of registering a company in China and ensure that everything is done smoothly and efficiently.

Foreign investors can choose to set up a wholly foreign-owned enterprise (WFOE or WOFE) in China. A WFOE or WOFE is a company that is fully owned and controlled by a foreign investor and can be involved in a variety of sectors such as manufacturing, trading, consulting and services.

Alternatively, you can also consider setting up a joint venture (JV) in China, which is a company jointly owned and operated by Chinese and foreign investors. A joint venture can be involved in a variety of sectors such as manufacturing, trading and services.

If you are not ready to fully commit to doing business in China, you can also consider registering a representative office (RO). A RO is a branch that represents the interests of a foreign company in China, but cannot engage in profit-making activities. They are usually used for market research, quality control and other non-commercial purposes.

Whichever option you choose, it is important to note that the Chinese government has certain restrictions on foreign investment in certain industries and sectors, and you may need to obtain government approval or permission before setting up a company in China. Therefore, it is important to work with a reputable Chinese law firm like ours to ensure that everything is done correctly and in compliance with Chinese laws and regulations.

Our team of Chinese lawyers can assist you through the entire process of setting up a company in China, including conducting market research, preparing necessary documents, obtaining approvals and licenses, and registering your company with the relevant authorities. We can also provide ongoing support and guidance to help you succeed in the Chinese market. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you open a company in China.

How long does it take to incorporate a company in China?

Are you planning to register a company in China and wondering how long the entire process will take? The time it takes to register a company in China depends on a variety of factors, including the type of company, where it is located, and the industry it belongs to.

Broadly speaking, the process of registering a company in China usually includes the following steps:

Pre-registration preparation: This includes preparing the necessary documents, such as a business plan, articles of association, and proof of capital, as well as obtaining any necessary approvals and licenses from the relevant authorities. This step may take weeks or months, depending on the complexity of the documents and the time it takes to obtain approvals and licenses.
Registration: Once the pre-registration preparation is completed, the company can register with the local Administration for Industry and Commerce (AIC). The registration process usually includes submitting the necessary documents to the AIC and obtaining a business license. This step may take weeks or months, depending on the workload of the AIC and the completeness of the submitted documents.
Post-registration: After the company is registered, there are several post-registration steps to complete, such as obtaining a tax registration certificate, opening a bank account, and registering for social insurance. These steps may take weeks or months, depending on the complexity of the documents and the time it takes to obtain the necessary approvals.
Overall, the process of setting up a company in China can take several months or longer, depending on the specific circumstances of your company. Therefore, it is essential to work with a reputable Chinese law firm like ours, who can assist you through the entire process of setting up your company in China and provide ongoing support and guidance to help you succeed in the Chinese market. Our team of experienced Chinese lawyers can help you through the process of registering a company in China and ensure that everything is done correctly and efficiently. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you open a company in China.

What documents do I need to provide to incorporate a company in China?

Are you planning to register a company in China and wondering what documents you need to provide? The documents required to register a company in China depend on the type of company and where it is registered.

In general, the following documents may be required to register a company in China:

Business Plan: This document outlines the company's mission, scope of business and objectives, as well as the products or services the company will provide.
Articles of Association: This document outlines the company's internal governance and management, including the roles and responsibilities of directors and shareholders.
Proof of Capital: This document provides proof of the company's financial resources, such as bank statements or proof of investment.
Identification documents of directors and shareholders: This may include copies of passports, copies of ID cards, and other documents required by the authorities.
Approvals and Licenses: Depending on the type of company and the industry in which it operates, certain approvals and licenses may be required. For example, companies involved in certain industries may need to obtain special approvals or licenses from relevant departments.
It is important to note that specific requirements may vary depending on the specific circumstances of the company and where it is registered. Therefore, it is crucial to work with a reputable Chinese law firm like us. We can assist you with the China company establishment process and help you collect the necessary documents to ensure that the company registration process is smooth and efficient. Our team of experienced Chinese lawyers can provide professional legal advice and guidance to help you register your company in China and ensure that everything is done correctly and in compliance with Chinese laws and regulations. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you open a company in China.

Can I get assistance with the incorporation process in China?

Are you planning to start a business in China and wondering if you can get assistance with incorporating your company? Yes, you can get professional help with incorporating your company in China from a service provider such as a lawyer or accounting firm.

Our team of experienced Chinese lawyers at our China law firm can assist you through the entire process of setting up your company in China and ensure that everything is completed smoothly and efficiently. We can provide a range of services to help you succeed in the Chinese market, including:

Conducting market research: We can help you assess the market potential of your business in China and find potential partners or customers.
Preparing necessary documents: We can help you collect and prepare the documents required to incorporate your company, such as a business plan, articles of association, and proof of capital.
Obtaining approvals and licenses: Depending on the type of company and the industry it operates in, certain approvals and licenses may be required. We can assist you with the process of obtaining these approvals and licenses.
Incorporating your company: We can assist you with registering your company with the local Administration for Industry and Commerce (AIC) and obtaining a business license.
Ongoing support and guidance: We can provide ongoing support and guidance to help you succeed in the Chinese market. This may include assistance with tax compliance, accounting, and other legal and regulatory matters.
It is essential to work with a reputable Chinese law firm like ours, who can provide professional legal advice and guidance to help you set up your business in China and ensure that everything goes smoothly and complies with Chinese laws and regulations. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you set up a company in China and succeed in the Chinese market.

How do I choose the right legal structure for my business in China?

Are you considering starting a business in China and wondering which legal structure is best for you? Our team of experienced Chinese lawyers at our China law firm can help you choose the most appropriate legal structure based on your specific business needs and goals.

When choosing the right legal structure for your China business, there are factors to consider:

Business type: Different legal structures are suitable for different types of business activities. For example, if you want to manufacture and sell products in China, a wholly foreign-owned enterprise (WFOE or WOFE) may be the best choice. If you want to conduct joint research and development with a Chinese partner, a joint venture (JV) may be more appropriate.
Ownership and control: Different legal structures offer different levels of ownership and control to foreign investors. For example, a wholly foreign-owned enterprise is fully owned and controlled by the foreign investor, while a joint venture is jointly owned and operated by a foreign and Chinese investor. If you want to retain full ownership and control of your business in China, a wholly foreign-owned enterprise may be the best choice.
Capital requirements: Different legal structures have different capital requirements. For example, a wholly foreign-owned enterprise (WFOE) and a joint venture (JV) generally require higher capital investment than a representative office (RO). If you have limited capital, a RO may be a more suitable option.
Tax implications: Different legal structures have different tax implications. For example, a wholly foreign-owned enterprise is subject to corporate income tax, VAT, and other taxes, while a RO is not. Be sure to consider the tax implications of different legal structures and choose the one that best suits your business.
Ongoing compliance requirements: Different legal structures have different ongoing compliance requirements. For example, a wholly foreign-owned enterprise (WFOE) and a joint venture are required to submit annual financial statements and pay corporate income tax, while a RO is not. Be sure to consider the ongoing compliance requirements of different legal structures and choose the one that best suits your business.
When choosing the right legal structure for your China business, it is essential to work with a reputable Chinese law firm like us. Our team of Chinese lawyers can provide professional legal advice and guidance to help you register your company in China, ensuring that everything goes smoothly and complies with Chinese laws and regulations. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in registering your company in China and help you succeed in the Chinese market.

How much does it cost to setup a WFOE in China?

Are you planning to set up a wholly foreign owned enterprise (WFOE) in China and wondering how much it will cost? The cost of setting up a WFOE in China depends on a variety of factors, including the type of business, location, and the industry in which the WFOE operates.

Here are some of the key costs to consider when setting up a WFOE in China:

Legal and professional fees: These fees include legal and professional service fees, such as legal advice, document preparation, and translation. When setting up a WFOE in China, it is essential to work with a reputable Chinese law firm like us. We are able to provide professional legal advice and guidance to help you navigate the China company establishment process and ensure that everything is completed smoothly and efficiently.
Capital contribution: A WFOE must meet a minimum capital contribution, which is the amount of money the company must have available to invest in its business operations. Capital contribution requirements vary depending on the type of business and where the WFOE is being set up. It is important to ensure that you have enough funds to meet the requirements and support your operations in China.
Rent: A wholly foreign owned enterprise (WFOE) must have a registered office in China, and the cost of rent will vary depending on the location and size of the office. When setting up a WFOE in China, be sure to budget for rent.
Taxes: WFOEs are subject to corporate income tax, value-added tax, and other taxes in China. The amount of taxes depends on the company's revenue and the specific tax rates in the company's industry. When setting up a WFOE in China, be sure to budget for taxes and seek professional legal and accounting advice to ensure compliance with Chinese tax laws.
Ongoing expenses: A WFOE will incur ongoing expenses such as wages, rent, utilities, and other operating costs. These expenses will vary depending on the size and nature of the business. When setting up a WFOE in China, be sure to budget for ongoing expenses and ensure that you have sufficient resources to maintain business operations over the long term.

Can I start a WFOE as a subsidiary / branch of my parent company?

Are you considering setting up a wholly foreign owned enterprise (WFOE) in China as a branch or subsidiary of an existing company and wondering if this is possible? The answer is yes, you can set up a WFOE in China as a branch or subsidiary of an existing company.

A WFOE is a popular choice for foreign companies looking to enter the Chinese market and operate independently in China. It allows you to establish a presence in China and conduct business in the local market, taking advantage of the many advantages of operating in China, such as access to a large and growing market, a well-established supply chain, and a favorable investment environment.

However, it is important to note that setting up a WFOE in China involves a range of legal and regulatory requirements that must be complied with. Therefore, it is essential to work with a reputable Chinese law firm like us, who can assist you through the Chinese company establishment process and provide ongoing support and guidance to help you succeed in the Chinese market. Our team of experienced Chinese lawyers can help you meet the legal and regulatory requirements to ensure that your wholly foreign owned enterprise (WFOE) is established and operates in compliance with Chinese laws and regulations.

If you work with us to set up a wholly foreign owned enterprise (WFOE) in China as a branch or subsidiary of your existing company, we can provide a range of services to help you succeed in the Chinese market, including:

Conducting market research: We can help you assess the market potential of your business in China and identify potential partners or customers.
Preparing necessary documents: We can help you collect and prepare the documents required for company formation, such as a business plan, articles of association, and proof of capital.
Obtaining approvals and licenses: Depending on the type of company and the industry it is in, certain approvals and licenses may be required. We can assist you with the process of obtaining these approvals and licenses.
Registering the company: We can help you register your company with the local Administration for Industry and Commerce (AIC) and obtain a business license.
Ongoing support and guidance: We can provide ongoing support and guidance to help you succeed in the Chinese market. This may include assistance with tax compliance, accounting, and other legal and regulatory matters.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you set up a wholly foreign owned enterprise (WOFE) in China as a branch or subsidiary of your existing company and succeed in the Chinese market.

Do I need to be physically in China to register a company?

Are you planning to set up a company in China and wondering if you need to travel to China to complete the relevant process? Generally, the company owners or directors do not need to be physically present in China to register a company. However, it is important to note that setting up a company in China involves a series of legal and regulatory requirements that must be complied with, and certain personnel may need to travel to China to complete certain tasks associated with the company registration process, such as signing documents or attending meetings.

If you are unable to travel to China to complete the company registration process, you can arrange for someone else to complete the process on your behalf in China, or use technology such as video conferencing to complete the process remotely. However, it is important to carefully consider the specific requirements and restrictions of the company formation process in China, and seek professional legal advice and guidance to ensure that everything is completed smoothly and efficiently.

Our team of experienced China lawyers can assist you in setting up a company in China and provide ongoing support and guidance to help you succeed in the Chinese market. Whether you want to register a company, open a company, or set up a wholly foreign-owned enterprise (WFOE) in China, we can provide you with the legal and professional support you need to help you navigate the complex legal and regulatory requirements and ensure that everything is completed smoothly and efficiently. Contact our China law firm today to learn more about how we can help you succeed in the Chinese market.