Published by ChinaMNC · Xindou

China's Government Information Disclosure System: A Practical Guide for Foreign Founders

Learn how China's government information disclosure framework works and what it means for foreign founders seeking regulatory clarity and compliance.

Understanding China's Government Information Disclosure System

For foreign founders establishing or operating a company in China, access to clear and reliable government information is essential. China's government information disclosure system provides a structured way to obtain official documents, regulations, and policy updates. This guide explains the key components of the system and how you can use it to support your business operations.

Key Regulations Governing Information Disclosure

The foundation of the system is the Regulations of the People's Republic of China on Open Government Information, which took effect on April 15, 2019. This regulation sets out the principles and procedures for government agencies at all levels to disclose information proactively and upon request.

Several supporting measures have been issued by the General Office of the State Council to implement and refine the disclosure process. These include:

• Measures for the Administration of Information Processing Fees for Government Information Disclosure (December 1, 2020) – outlines the fees that may apply when processing information requests.
• Notice on the Format of Annual Reports on Government Information Disclosure (September 29, 2021) – standardizes how agencies report on their disclosure activities.
• Notice on Matters Concerning the Standardization of Government Information Disclosure Platforms (December 3, 2019) – provides guidance on the operation of online disclosure portals.
• Interpretations on Various Issues – covering topics such as the handling of applications after institutional reforms, the channels for receiving applications, the responsible entities for replies, and the distinction between information disclosure and general inquiries. These interpretations, issued between 2017 and 2019, clarify practical aspects of the application process.

Additionally, a 2020 notice from the General Office of the State Council forwarded the Ministry of Justice's guiding opinions on handling administrative reconsideration cases related to government information disclosure. Another 2021 notice emphasized the centralized and dynamic publication of departmental rules.

How to Access Government Information

The central government portal (gov.cn) serves as a primary platform for accessing disclosed information. The platform organizes information into categories such as policies, regulations, and development plans. Users can search by document title, document number, or date. If a search yields no results, the system suggests checking for input errors, simplifying search terms, or using synonyms.

For foreign founders, this means you can research applicable regulations, policy updates, and government notices directly from official sources. However, note that the platform is primarily in Chinese, so you may need translation assistance.

Annual Reports on Government Information Disclosure

Government agencies at various levels are required to publish annual reports on their information disclosure work. The central portal provides access to these reports for recent years, including 2020 through 2025. Reports are available for:

• Provincial-level governments – all provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities directly under the central government.
• Vertical systems – such as the People's Bank of China, customs, taxation, financial regulation, securities regulation, meteorological administration, grain and strategic reserves, tobacco monopoly, railway, civil aviation, postal services, mining safety, fire rescue, and foreign exchange administration.
• State Council departments – ministries and commissions such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, National Development and Reform Commission, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Science and Technology, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Ministry of Commerce, State Taxation Administration, General Administration of Customs, and many others.

These reports provide insight into how agencies handle information disclosure and may help you understand the scope of publicly available information.

National and Local Development Plans

The portal also publishes national economic and social development plans, including the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030) and previous plans going back to the 10th Five-Year Plan (2001-2005). Specialized plans are also available, such as those on intellectual property protection and utilization, national health, expanding consumption, and special education development. Local development plans for provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities are accessible as well.

For foreign founders, these plans can signal policy directions and priorities that may affect your industry. For instance, the Intellectual Property Protection and Utilization Plan under the 15th Five-Year Plan may be relevant if your business relies on IP. Similarly, the National Health Plan could impact healthcare-related ventures.

Practical Steps for Foreign Founders

To leverage China's government information disclosure system effectively:

• Monitor relevant policies – Regularly check the portal for updates on regulations and plans that affect your sector.
• Understand the application process – If you need specific information not proactively disclosed, you can file an information disclosure request. The interpretations clarify the channels and procedures.
• Use annual reports – These reports can help you identify which agencies are most active in disclosure and what types of information are available.
• Seek professional advice – Given the language and procedural complexities, consider engaging local experts to assist with information requests and compliance.

By utilizing these resources, you can make more informed decisions and ensure your company remains compliant with Chinese regulations.

Call to Action: Foreign founders can contact ChinaMNC on WhatsApp / WeChat at +86 153 1898 8535 for help registering and operating a 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.