Intergroup
Company Formation

China Company Formation

Establish your business in China through a Wholly Foreign-Owned Enterprise (WFOE) or Joint Venture. We handle the entire process from MOFCOM approval to business-licence issuance.

Why incorporate in China?

China is the world's second-largest economy with a consumer market of 1.4 billion people. The standard corporate tax rate is 25%, with preferential rates of 15% for qualifying high-tech enterprises and other incentives in special economic zones. China has signed 100+ double-taxation treaties.

Since 2020, the Foreign Investment Law has unified the legal framework for foreign investment, providing greater transparency and protections. Most sectors are now open to 100% foreign ownership through a WFOE structure, with the "negative list" of restricted sectors being steadily shortened. Free Trade Zones in Shanghai, Shenzhen and other cities offer additional benefits.

25%

Standard CIT rate

1.4B

Consumer market

100+

Tax treaties

FTZs

Special economic zones

Competitive tax incentives

Standard corporate tax rate of 25%, reduced to 15% for qualified high-tech enterprises. Extensive VAT reform and special economic zones offer additional savings.

World's second-largest economy

Access to a consumer market of 1.4 billion people and a manufacturing powerhouse with mature supply chains across virtually every industry.

Multiple entity structures

Options include Wholly Foreign-Owned Enterprise (WFOE), Joint Venture (JV) and Representative Office, each suited to different business objectives.

Improving legal framework

The Foreign Investment Law (2020) provides national treatment for foreign investors, stronger IP protections and a unified regulatory framework.

Free Trade Zones

Special economic zones in Shanghai, Shenzhen, Hainan and others offer streamlined approvals, reduced tariffs and relaxed foreign-ownership restrictions.

Innovation hub

China is a global leader in fintech, e-commerce, AI and green technology, offering vast opportunities for technology-driven businesses.

China company formation

Setup costs depend on the entity type, location and industry. Contact us for a personalised quotation.

China Company Formation

China company formation costs vary significantly by city, registered capital requirements and industry licensing. We'll analyse your situation and provide a detailed cost breakdown.

The incorporation process

A clear, guided path from first consultation to a fully licensed China entity.

  1. 1

    Initial consultation

    Day 1

    We assess your goals, recommend the optimal structure (WFOE, JV, Rep Office) and identify the best city/zone for registration.

  2. 2

    Name pre-approval

    2–5 days

    We submit your preferred company name to the Administration for Market Regulation (AMR) for pre-approval.

  3. 3

    Document preparation

    5–7 days

    We prepare the Articles of Association, feasibility study, appointment letters and all required filings.

  4. 4

    Business licence application

    5–10 days

    We file with the local AMR. Upon approval you receive the Business Licence — the key document for operating in China.

  5. 5

    Post-licence registrations

    5–10 days

    We complete company chop (seal) carving, tax registration, customs registration, foreign-exchange account and social-insurance registration.

  6. 6

    Bank account opening

    5–15 days

    We coordinate with Chinese banks to open RMB and/or foreign-currency corporate accounts.

What you'll need

Comprehensive documentation — we'll guide you through every step.

Foreign investor (individual)

  • Notarised & apostilled passport copy
  • Proof of address
  • Bank reference letter
  • Investment funds proof

Foreign investor (corporate)

  • Notarised & apostilled Certificate of Incorporation
  • Articles of Association
  • Certificate of Good Standing (< 6 months)
  • Audited financial statements (1–2 years)
  • Board resolution authorising the investment

Company details

  • Proposed company name (Chinese + English)
  • Detailed business scope description
  • Registered capital amount and contribution schedule
  • Registered office address in China (lease agreement)

Advantages

  • Access to the world's largest consumer market
  • Mature supply chains and manufacturing infrastructure
  • Competitive tax incentives for high-tech enterprises
  • Special economic zones with streamlined approvals
  • Rapidly growing digital economy and innovation ecosystem
  • Extensive network of free-trade agreements

Things to consider

  • Complex regulatory landscape — ongoing compliance obligations
  • Some sectors restricted or prohibited for foreign investment (Negative List)
  • Minimum registered capital requirements vary by industry
  • Annual audit and joint annual inspection required
  • Capital repatriation subject to tax clearance and documentation

Frequently asked questions

What is a WFOE?
A Wholly Foreign-Owned Enterprise (WFOE) is the most common structure for foreign companies entering China. It provides full ownership and operational control, limited liability and the ability to issue invoices and repatriate profits.
How long does it take to set up a WFOE?
The full process typically takes 4–8 weeks, including name approval, business licence issuance and post-licence registrations. Timelines vary by city and zone.
Is there a minimum capital requirement?
There is no universal minimum, but the registered capital must be "appropriate" for the approved business scope. Some industries (e.g. trading, finance) have specific minimums. We advise on the right amount for your situation.
Can I own 100% of my China company?
Yes, for most industries. China's Foreign Investment Law and the Negative List define restricted and prohibited sectors. Outside those sectors, 100% foreign ownership is permitted.
What are the annual compliance requirements?
Companies must file annual tax returns, undergo an annual audit by a licensed Chinese CPA firm, submit the Enterprise Annual Report and maintain proper accounting records in Chinese.
Can profits be repatriated?
Yes, after corporate income tax has been paid and the annual audit is completed, profits can be remitted overseas. A tax-clearance certificate from the local tax bureau is required.

Register in China

Get a tailored quote for your China company — we'll recommend the best structure for your goals.

+852 5803 1008

Ready to set up in China?

Speak with our team for a free consultation. We'll help you choose the right structure and handle the entire process.

+852 5803 1008