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Hong Kong Signs Free Trade Agreement with Peru

On 15 November 2024, Hong Kong and Peru signed a landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA) during the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Lima. The agreement covers competition, intellectual property, investment, trade in goods and services, and online commerce, among other strategic areas. It grants Hong Kong enterprises access to over 150 Peruvian industries, surpassing WTO commitments. The FTA provides a stable legal framework to boost commerce, fostering opportunities for Hong Kong businesses to expand into Latin America. With bilateral trade growing steadily—merchandise at 4% annually (2019-2023) and services at 16.3% annually (2018-2022)—this partnership solidifies economic ties.

Latest Insights

Amendment to CEPA Provides Enhanced Access to Mainland Markets

The Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (“CEPA”) amendment between mainland China and Hong Kong, effective 1 March 2025, expands market access for Hong Kong businesses. Covering trade in goods, services, investment, and economic cooperation, CEPA now includes liberalisation measures in sectors like construction, financial services, and tourism. Key updates include easing equity ownership limits and professional service restrictions. Hong Kong enterprises can also capitalize on premier legal and arbitration services for Mainland operations. While most measures apply nationwide, select pilot initiatives focus on the Greater Bay Area, highlighting enhanced integration and opportunities for Hong Kong-based companies in a growing market.

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China Adjusts Export Tax Rebates for Certain Goods

On 15 November 2024, China announced significant changes to its export tax rebate policies, effective 1 December 2024. The elimination of rebates for aluminium, copper, and certain biofuels, along with a reduction in rebate rates for batteries and refined oil products, is set to impact businesses across key sectors. This shift aims to address the financial burdens faced by exporters under the current VAT framework. Companies must now evaluate how these adjustments affect their operations and develop strategies to navigate the evolving landscape. Discover how these changes could reshape the export market and what it means for your business.

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Regulatory Updates

Dong Business in China

Our China Guides comprise a series of informative articles that provide insights on efficiently handling the compliance responsibilities and administrative formalities associated with establishing and scaling up your business in Mainland China.

Dong Business in Hong Kong

Are you looking to setting up a company in Hong Kong? Checkout our a series of comprehensive guides on how to set up and operate a business in Hong Kong.

Expanding your business into

Greater Bay Area

The Greater Bay Area (GBA) of China presents vast opportunities for businesses seeking to expand their operations in the region. The GBA comprises nine cities in Guangdong Province, Hong Kong, and Macau, with a combined population of over 70 million and a GDP of approximately USD 1.6 trillion. It is a critical part of China’s economic development strategy, aimed at creating a world-class metropolis and driving economic growth in the region.

We have a series of informative articles that delve into the various business opportunities available in the GBA. These articles cover a wide range of industries, including finance, technology, logistics, and tourism, among others. We provide insights on the GBA’s market potential, investment incentives, regulatory environment, and emerging trends that businesses can capitalize on.

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China Pushes for Nationwide Adoption of Fully Digitalised E-Invoices

Effective 1 December 2024, China’s State Administration of Taxation (SAT) has implemented fully digitalised e-invoices, or e-fapiao, nationwide. This initiative simplifies invoicing processes, replacing traditional paper-based invoices with a streamlined digital format featuring 17 key elements, including a unique 20-digit identification code. Legally equivalent to paper invoices, the e-invoice reduces administrative burden and enhances tax compliance. The move underscores China’s commitment to modernizing tax administration while promoting efficiency and standardization for businesses and consumers. By eliminating the need for duplicate copies, the digital system improves usability and supports the broader digital transformation of the country’s financial ecosystem.

Market Entry, Industry Updates and More...

China Extends Annual Public Holiday Entitlement

Effective 1 January 2025, China’s revised Regulation on Public Holidays increases the annual public holiday entitlement from 11 to 13 days. Chinese Lunar New Year’s Eve and 2nd May (Labour Day festivities) have been added, extending the Spring Festival holiday to four days and Labour Day holiday to two days. Employers must update employee handbooks, adjust overtime pay calculations to reflect triple pay on these new holidays, and revise payroll calculations considering fewer average working days. These changes provide employees with more rest days while prompting businesses to ensure compliance with adjusted policies and legal requirements.

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