Representative office

Use a China representative office only when the permitted role fits the business plan.

A representative office can suit certain liaison, research and coordination needs, but it is not a general replacement for a local operating company. We coordinate suitability review, registration and the ongoing compliance route.

01

When to review the route

  • Market research and liaison activities
  • Parent-company representation
  • Supplier or partner coordination
  • A limited local presence without a full operating entity
  • Cases where the exact permitted activities can be clearly defined
02

What we coordinate

  • Parent-company eligibility and document route
  • Chief representative and office details
  • Registration package coordination
  • Tax and compliance onboarding
  • Employment and work permit planning
  • Ongoing annual compliance support

Important distinction

Check commercial limits before choosing a representative office.

A representative office is generally not designed as a normal trading or invoicing vehicle. The allowed activity, tax treatment and employment route should be confirmed for the specific case.

Alternative

Need a normal operating company?

If the business needs local sales, contracts, invoicing, employees or a broader operating scope, compare a Mainland company before deciding.

Mainland company registration →

One coordination desk

Tell us what the China presence needs to do each month.

Send the business activity, shareholder location, preferred jurisdiction or city, timeline and the services you expect to need. We will reply with the practical next step.