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China’s August 2026 Tax Brief: Foreign Dividend Relief Ends and VAT Compliance Tightens
This brief covers the six Auguste 2026 developments most relevant to FIEs operating in China and Hong Kong, each broken down into what has changed and why it matters, followed by a condensed round-up of other notable developments from the month.
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China Issues New Organic Product Catalogue – Should You Certify Your Products?
China's updated organic product catalogue marks another step in standardising its certification system. As rules tighten and demand for organic products rises, companies should assess whether certification is worth pursuing for their products.
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Switzerland-China Free Trade Agreement (FTA) Upgrade: What It Means for Business
The upgraded free trade agreement between Switzerland and China could significantly lower market-entry costs and expand opportunities for Swiss companies. With 99.8 percent of Swiss exports set to become duty-free, alongside broader investment access, sole ownership rights in key service sectors, and easier rules for digital trade and origin, businesses should start assessing where the agreement could reduce costs or support expansion.
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Why Foreign Brands Should Register Trademarks in China Before Market Entry
Register trademarks in China before market entry to prevent bad-faith filings, protect brand ownership, secure enforcement rights, and avoid costly launch delays.
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When Hong Kong Holding Companies May Be Denied China’s 5% Dividend Tax Preference
Recent tax enforcement has highlighted the risks facing Hong Kong holding companies claiming China's preferential 5% dividend withholding tax rate. We examine the beneficial ownership test, principal purpose test, post-filing reviews, and practical steps businesses can take to assess historical exposure and protect future treaty claims.
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China’s 2026-2030 Climate Compliance Roadmap: Key Trends and Business Impacts
China's new Climate Change Five-Year Plan is reshaping the country's environmental compliance landscape. We break down what businesses need to know about carbon market expansion, carbon footprint certification, and non-CO2 emissions rules over the next five years.
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Trade Secret Protection in China: What the New SAMR Rules Mean for Foreign Companies
SAMR's Provisions on the Protection of Trade Secrets raise fines to RMB 5 million and shift the burden of proof in favour of rights holders, but only for companies that can demonstrate they have taken adequate measures to protect their confidential information. We explain the changes, the audit to run now, and how administrative, civil, and criminal routes compare.
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How to Avoid Triggering a Fixed Place PE in China
Triggering permanent establishment status in China can expose a foreign company's profits to unexpected tax liabilities. Businesses should therefore understand which activities cross the line – and how to avoid them.