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CW CPA Professional Insights on China and Cross-Border Business

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Effective November 1, 2024, the Administrative Measures on Beneficial Owner Information mandate that companies, partnerships, and foreign company branches in China disclose beneficial ownership details to enhance market transparency and combat money laundering. Issued by the People’s Bank of China (PBC) and State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR), the Measures align China with global standards set by the G20 and FATF. Non-compliance may lead to fines up to 50,000 yuan. The disclosed information remains confidential and accessible only to authorized government and AML institutions, emphasizing the need for proactive compliance.
On November 1, 2024, China enacted the “Special Administrative Measures (Negative List) for Foreign Investment Access (2024 Edition),” repealing the previous list published at the end of 2021. Compared with the 2021 edition, the 2024 national Negative List for Foreign Investment Access has removed the last two remaining restrictions in the manufacturing sector. The number of restricted items on the national Negative List has been reduced from 31 to 29.
China has recently updated its regulatory framework with the State Council’s Provisions on the Implementation of the Registered Capital Management System under the Company Law (Decree No. 784), which took effect on July 1, 2024. These provisions are designed to enhance transparency, regulate shareholder commitments, ensure the safety of market transactions, and improve the overall business environment.
On April 26, 2024, the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress promulgated the Law of the People’s Republic of China on Customs Duties under Presidential Decree No. 23. This new law, effective from December 1, 2024, marks a significant overhaul of China's customs duty framework, replacing the 2017 Regulations on Import and Export Duties. The new law aims to standardize customs duty collection and payment, promote foreign trade, and support high-quality development. It introduces a comprehensive framework, including duty items, rates, calculation methods, and tax incentives. The law also emphasizes compliance and enhanced roles for customs authorities, aiming for clarity and consistency in duty application, thus impacting international trade and customs administration in China.
On July 5th, 2024, the Hong Kong SAR Government enacted the Inland Revenue (Amendment) (Tax Concessions for Intellectual Property Income) Ordinance 2024, introducing a "patent box" tax incentive regime ("Patent Box Regime"). This regime offers tax concessions on qualifying profits derived from eligible intellectual property (IP) developed through research and development (R&D) activities within Hong Kong. By implementing this regime, Hong Kong seeks to stimulate the growth of IP trading, encourage companies to engage in IP-related activities, and solidify its position as a leading regional hub for intellectual property. This article delves into the intricacies of the Patent Box Regime, highlighting its objectives, key features, eligibility criteria, and implications for businesses.
Effective sustainability reporting is crucial for demonstrating an organization's commitment to sustainable development. This article guides you through essential considerations and structured steps for a successful sustainability report. Begin by securing top-level commitment to ensure resource allocation and understand the regulatory landscape early on. Start small, focusing on core sustainability metrics, and gradually expand your scope. Develop in-house expertise and engage stakeholders to create a comprehensive sustainability narrative. A five-step process—from assessing readiness to continuous improvement—helps organizations draft meaningful reports that resonate with stakeholders and enhance sustainability efforts. With the right approach, sustainability reporting can drive significant environmental and social benefits while aligning with business objectives.