With over 700 million consumers in the middle-income bracket, China is an increasingly important market for UK exporters. China is already the UK’s third largest trading partner and represents a growth market for many businesses. China accounts for a growing share of global consumption, with export opportunities in a range of areas, including luxury goods, cars, technology, financial services, healthcare, and education.

A challenging economic environment, geopolitical tensions, and aftershocks from the pandemic have, however, create significant challenges for UK businesses looking to expand into the China market.

This series of business workshops is intended to help companies better understanding and navigate the China market. Leading China experts will share the latest insights on the China business landscape in 2022, helping attendees to make informed decisions on their approach to the China market.

Establishing a permanent presence in China is often a logical step for companies looking to expand their China operations. Setting up a Wholly Foreign Owned Entity (or WFOE) can provide greater operational flexibility, such as in employing staff, billing customers, managing suppliers and other day-to-day activities.

This session will examine the different options available when setting up in China, factors to consider when setting-up, and provide practical advice on how to go about incorporation. The session will touch on key issues around strategic planning, due diligence, bank accounts, legal risks, tax and audit, profit repatriation, staff recruitment and corporate governance issues.