Published by ChinaMNC · Daofu
China Government Information Disclosure: A Guide for Foreign Founders
Understand China's government information disclosure framework, including key regulations and practical steps for foreign founders to access information for company registration and operations.
Understanding Government Information Disclosure in China
For foreign founders establishing or operating a company in China, access to official government information is essential. China's government information disclosure system provides a structured way to obtain policies, regulations, and administrative documents. This article outlines the key regulations and practical steps for foreign founders to navigate this system, based on information published by the Sichuan Provincial Government.
Key National Regulations on Government Information Disclosure
The framework for government information disclosure is set by national regulations and State Council documents. The following are the most relevant:
- Regulation of the People's Republic of China on Government Information Disclosure (State Council Order No. 711) – effective April 15, 2019. This is the primary regulation governing the disclosure of government information.
- Notice on Issuing the Measures for the Formulation of Public Information Disclosure Rules for Public Enterprises and Institutions – issued December 21, 2020.
- Notice on Issuing the Measures for the Administration of Information Processing Fees for Government Information Disclosure – issued December 1, 2020. This sets rules for fees that may apply to information requests.
- Notice on Forwarding the Ministry of Justice's Guiding Opinions on Several Issues Concerning the Trial of Administrative Reconsideration Cases of Government Information Disclosure – issued January 4, 2022.
- Notice on Doing a Good Job in the Centralized Disclosure and Dynamic Update of Regulations – issued October 29, 2021.
- Notice on Issuing the Format for the Annual Report on Government Information Disclosure Work of the People's Republic of China – issued September 29, 2021.
- Notice on Matters Concerning the Standardization of Government Information Disclosure Platforms – issued December 3, 2019.
- Interpretation on Issues Concerning the Handling of Government Information Disclosure Applications After Institutional Reform – issued February 11, 2019.
- Interpretation on Issues Concerning the Channels for Receiving Government Information Disclosure Applications – issued October 24, 2017.
- Interpretation on Issues Concerning the Subject of Replies to Government Information Disclosure Applications – issued October 24, 2017.
- Interpretation on Issues Concerning the Filling of Items in the Annual Report on Government Information Disclosure – issued October 24, 2017.
- Interpretation on Issues Concerning the Delivery of Government Information Disclosure Processing Decisions – issued October 24, 2017.
- Interpretation on Clarifying the Boundary Between Government Information Disclosure and Business Inquiry Matters – issued October 24, 2017.
Additionally, a provincial-level notice from the Sichuan Provincial Department of Finance and the Sichuan Provincial Development and Reform Commission addresses matters related to information processing fees for government information disclosure (issued January 25, 2021).
Practical Steps for Foreign Founders
To access government information, foreign founders should follow these practical steps:
- Identify the relevant regulation or document: The list above provides the key national regulations. For specific policies, check the website of the relevant government department.
- Submit a request through the proper channels: The interpretations clarify the channels for receiving applications and the subject of replies. Ensure your request is directed to the correct authority.
- Be aware of processing fees: The measures on information processing fees allow for fees to be charged in certain cases. Budget accordingly.
- Understand the scope: The interpretation on the boundary between government information disclosure and business inquiry matters clarifies what can be requested. Business inquiries (e.g., specific company data) may fall outside the scope.
- Check annual reports: Government agencies publish annual reports on information disclosure. These can provide an overview of available information.
Foreign founders should also note that the Sichuan provincial government website provides a dedicated section for government information disclosure, which includes policies, regulations, and administrative normative documents. The website is identified by the code 5100000062 and has ICP license 13001288 and public security registration 51010402000507.
Conclusion
Navigating government information disclosure is a key part of setting up and running a company in China. By understanding the national regulations and following the practical steps outlined above, foreign founders can access the information they need. For personalized assistance with company registration and operations in China, foreign founders can contact ChinaMNC on WhatsApp / WeChat at +86 153 1898 8535.
This summary is based on information published by the relevant Chinese government website and is general information, not legal or tax advice.