Published by ChinaMNC · Shiqu

China Government Information Disclosure: A Guide for Foreign Founders

Understand China's government information disclosure system, key regulations, and practical steps for foreign founders to access official information when registering or operating a company in China.

Why Government Information Disclosure Matters for Foreign Founders

When setting up or running a company in China, foreign founders often need access to official government information—whether it's regulations, policy documents, or procedural guidance. China's government information disclosure system (政府信息公开) is designed to make such information publicly available. This article outlines the key regulations and practical points for foreign founders, based on official sources.

Key Regulations on Government Information Disclosure

The legal framework for government information disclosure in China is shaped by several national regulations. The most foundational is the Regulation of the People's Republic of China on the Disclosure of Government Information (State Council Order No. 711), which took effect on April 15, 2019. This regulation sets out the principles, scope, and procedures for government agencies at all levels to disclose information.

In addition, the General Office of the State Council has issued various notices and measures to clarify implementation details. These include:

• Measures for the Administration of Information Processing Fees for Government Information Disclosure (effective December 1, 2020), which governs fees that may be charged for processing information requests.
• Notice on the Format of Annual Reports on Government Information Disclosure (September 29, 2021), standardizing how agencies report on their disclosure work.
• Notice on Regulating Government Information Disclosure Platforms (December 3, 2019), which provides guidance on how online platforms should be structured.

Other notices address specific procedural questions, such as how to handle information disclosure applications after institutional reforms (February 11, 2019), the channels for receiving applications (October 24, 2017), and the distinction between government information disclosure and general business inquiries (October 24, 2017). These clarifications help ensure consistent practices across agencies.

What Information Is Available?

Government information disclosure covers a wide range of materials, including policies, regulations, administrative normative documents, and departmental normative documents. For example, the Sichuan Provincial Development and Reform Commission (省发展改革委) lists 24 items in its policy and regulation section. At the national level, documents from the State Council and its offices are regularly published.

Foreign founders can use these resources to understand the regulatory environment, find applicable rules for their industry, and stay informed about policy changes. The information is typically organized by category, such as national regulations, State Council documents, and local government documents.

How to Request Government Information

If the information you need is not proactively disclosed, you can file an information disclosure request. The regulations specify the channels for submitting requests—these may include online portals, email, mail, or in-person submissions. The notice from October 24, 2017, clarifies the acceptable channels and how agencies should handle requests.

When making a request, be clear and specific about the information you seek. The regulation also addresses the handling of fees: agencies may charge reasonable fees for processing requests, as outlined in the 2020 fee measures. Some local governments, like Sichuan Province, have issued their own notices on information processing fees (e.g., the January 25, 2021, notice from the Sichuan Provincial Department of Finance and the Provincial Development and Reform Commission).

It's important to note that government information disclosure is distinct from general business inquiries. The October 24, 2017, interpretation clarifies the boundary between the two, helping applicants direct their requests appropriately.

Practical Tips for Foreign Founders

• Start with proactive disclosure: Check government websites first—many documents are published without needing a formal request.
• Understand the fee structure: If you request information, be aware that processing fees may apply. The 2020 measures and local notices provide details.
• Use the correct channels: Follow the official guidance on how to submit requests to ensure they are processed efficiently.
• Keep records: Save copies of your requests and any responses for your company's compliance records.
• Seek professional advice: For complex matters, consider consulting with legal or business advisors familiar with China's regulatory landscape.

Conclusion

Understanding government information disclosure can help foreign founders navigate China's regulatory environment more effectively. By leveraging publicly available information and following proper procedures for requests, you can access the official documents needed to register and operate your company in China.

This summary is based on information published by the relevant Chinese government website and is general information, not legal or tax advice.

For assistance with company registration and ongoing operations in China, foreign founders can contact ChinaMNC on WhatsApp / WeChat at +86 153 1898 8535.