Published by ChinaMNC · Si

China Marks 90th Anniversary of Long March: What It Means for Foreign Founders Registering a Company

The Chinese government held a major commemorative event on October 22, 2026, marking 90 years since the end of the Long March. While largely ceremonial, such official gatherings often signal policy continuity. For foreign entrepreneurs, understanding China's political calendar and ideological messaging can help anticipate regulatory stability and compliance priorities when setting up a business.

Practical Takeaways for Foreign Founders

On October 22, 2026, China held a high-profile meeting in Beijing to commemorate the 90th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese Workers' and Peasants' Red Army's Long March. The event, attended by top leadership including Xi Jinping, Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi, and Han Zheng, featured a speech emphasizing themes of perseverance, unity, and national rejuvenation. While this is a domestic political occasion, it offers foreign founders a window into China's policy environment—particularly the emphasis on long-term stability, self-reliance, and party leadership—which can influence business regulations and enforcement priorities.

For entrepreneurs planning to register a company in China, the key is to separate ceremonial rhetoric from actionable regulatory signals. The meeting itself does not introduce new business laws, but it reinforces the broader context in which foreign investment policies, tax compliance, and corporate governance requirements are set. Understanding this context can help you anticipate shifts in areas like data security, antitrust, and social responsibility expectations.

What the Event Signals for Business Policy

The commemoration highlighted the "Long March spirit," which includes determination, independence, and reliance on the people. In practical terms, this translates into continued emphasis on:

• Party leadership in economic affairs: Expect ongoing alignment between corporate governance and socialist core values, especially for larger enterprises.
• High-quality development: The speech mentioned promoting high-quality development and common prosperity, which may affect labor practices, wage policies, and community engagement.
• Self-reliance in technology: The theme of overcoming external challenges suggests continued support for domestic innovation, potentially impacting foreign tech companies' market access and partnership opportunities.
• Stability and security: The stress on unity and security implies that regulatory scrutiny on data, supply chains, and national security will remain stringent.

While these are broad principles, they inform how local authorities interpret and enforce regulations. For instance, when registering a company, you may encounter questions about your business's contribution to local development goals or alignment with industrial policies.

Entity Choice and Registration Steps: What Remains Unchanged

The core process for foreign founders to register a company in China is governed by the Foreign Investment Law and related regulations, not by commemorative events. However, the political climate can affect the speed and scrutiny of approvals. Here's what you need to know:

Common Entity Types

• Wholly Foreign-Owned Enterprise (WFOE): Most popular for foreign founders seeking full control. Requires registered capital, a legal representative, and a registered address.
• Joint Venture (JV): With a Chinese partner, often used in restricted sectors. Involves negotiation of equity splits and governance.
• Representative Office (RO): Limited to non-profit activities like market research. Cannot engage in direct business.

Key Registration Steps

• Name pre-approval: Submit proposed names to the local Administration for Market Regulation (AMR).
• Business license application: File articles of association, investor documents, and proof of address with the AMR.
• Post-license procedures: Obtain official seals, open a bank account, and register with tax and customs authorities.
• Sector-specific licenses: For restricted industries (e.g., education, healthcare), additional approvals from regulators are required.

Documentation typically includes notarized and apostilled (or consular legalized) certificates of incorporation, bank statements, and passport copies. Registered capital requirements vary by industry and location; some sectors have minimum thresholds, while others allow flexible contribution schedules. Tax registration is mandatory within 30 days of obtaining the business license, and compliance with annual reporting and audit requirements is essential.

Compliance Priorities in the Current Policy Climate

The commemorative meeting's emphasis on "new challenges" and "great struggle" underscores that compliance is not just about paperwork—it's about aligning with national priorities. Foreign founders should pay attention to:

• Data security and cybersecurity: The Data Security Law and Personal Information Protection Law (PIPL) impose strict rules on data handling. Assess whether your business involves cross-border data transfers.
• Labor and social responsibility: With "common prosperity" as a goal, ensure fair labor practices, timely social insurance contributions, and community engagement.
• Environmental compliance: High-quality development includes green initiatives; manufacturing or energy-related businesses face stricter environmental reviews.
• Tax compliance: Transfer pricing, VAT invoicing, and corporate income tax filings are scrutinized. Engage local professionals to navigate incentives and reporting.

While the event itself does not alter these requirements, it reinforces the importance of building robust compliance frameworks from day one. Local authorities may interpret regulations in light of current political campaigns, so staying informed through official channels and local advisors is wise.

Conclusion: Leveraging Stability for Long-Term Success

The 90th anniversary commemoration is a reminder of China's focus on long-term planning and resilience. For foreign founders, this translates into a predictable—though sometimes complex—regulatory environment where thorough preparation pays off. By understanding the political context and adhering to legal requirements, you can position your China entity for sustainable growth.

This summary is based on information published by the relevant Chinese government website and is general information, not legal or tax advice.

For assistance with registering and operating a company in China, foreign founders can contact ChinaMNC on WhatsApp / WeChat at +86 153 1898 8535.