Promoting High-Quality Development: Interpretation of New Policies for the Financial Leasing Industry in Shanghai’s Lin-gang Special Area
On December 12, 2024, the Lin-gang Special Area of the Shanghai Free Trade Zone introduced new measures to promote high-quality financial leasing development. These policies aim to enhance competitiveness through optimized business environments, financial support, and industry-specific incentives. Key areas of focus include civil aviation, medical equipment, and green leasing, alongside fostering cross-border innovation and talent development. Effective from January 1, 2025, these measures will shape a dynamic financial leasing ecosystem. Companies should leverage these policies, strengthen financial partnerships, and expand internationally to maximize growth opportunities, especially under the Belt and Road Initiative.
New Policies in Development of Western China: Catalogue of Encouraging Industries in Western China (2025 Version)
The Catalogue of Encouraging Industries in Western China (2025 Version) is a policy document that outlines the industries that the Chinese government encourages for investment and development in its western regions. The 2025 version aims to further boost the economic growth in western China by providing attractive incentives for both domestic and foreign investors. The industries listed in this catalogue are considered essential for the region’s modernization and sustainable development. These industries encompass various sectors, including high-tech, clean energy, advanced manufacturing, and ecological protection.
Australia Desk Activities – Asian Summit on Global Health & BIOHK2025
The Asian Summit on Global Health (ASGH) will be held in Hong Kong on 26–27 May 2025, bringing together policymakers, healthcare experts, and investors. Following this, BIOHK2025, a premier biotech event, will take place from 10–13 September 2025, showcasing global biotechnology advancements. CW is committed to assisting Australian health-tech and biotech companies in joining these high-profile events, offering support in registration, networking, and investor meetings. These events highlight Hong Kong’s role as a leading hub for healthcare and biotechnology innovation, providing unparalleled opportunities for collaboration, growth, and industry insights.
German Companies Deepen Investment in China Amid Strategic Growth in 2024 and 2025
German companies are intensifying their investments in China, signaling strong confidence in the market’s long-term potential. Key sectors like automotive, chemicals, and fashion are leading this growth. Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen are advancing electric vehicle (EV) innovations tailored for China, while BASF commits €10 billion to a new chemical production facility. Hugo Boss is expanding its retail footprint to capture China’s demand for premium products. With €7.3 billion in Foreign Direct Investment in the first half of 2024, Germany’s “In China, for China” strategy emphasizes localization and sustainability. Despite geopolitical challenges, German firms remain focused on fostering strategic growth and partnerships.
Navigating the New Anti-Money Laundering Landscape: A Compliance Guide to China’s 2024 Anti-Money Laundering Law for Foreign-Invested and Outbound Enterprises
The 2024 revision of China’s Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Law brings significant updates to combat financial crimes. Effective January 1, 2025, the law introduces a risk-based approach, expands predicate offenses, and strengthens compliance obligations for financial institutions. Foreign-invested and outbound enterprises must adopt robust AML practices, including thorough due diligence and transparent financial transactions. Advanced technologies like AI and blockchain are encouraged for AML monitoring, reflecting the law’s focus on evolving risks. The revision also emphasizes international cooperation, aligning China’s efforts with global AML standards and reinforcing compliance for enterprises with cross-border operations.
Hong Kong Unveils New Cybersecurity Bill
Hong Kong has introduced the Protection of Critical Infrastructures (Computer Systems) Bill (“PCI Bill”), aiming to safeguard critical infrastructure sectors like banking, healthcare, telecommunications, and transport from cyber threats. The bill imposes obligations on operators, including establishing specialist cybersecurity units, adopting preventive measures, and promptly reporting incidents. A Commissioner’s Office will oversee compliance and assist during emergencies. By aligning with international standards, the PCI Bill enhances Hong Kong’s cybersecurity framework, ensuring operational continuity in critical sectors. Businesses should prepare to meet the bill’s requirements and strengthen their cybersecurity protocols.
New Implementing Measures for Company Registration in China
The State Administration for Market Regulation issued Order No. 95, introducing new Implementing Measures for the Administration of Company Registration in China, effective February 10, 2025. These regulations aim to enhance transparency, compliance, and efficiency in company registration, affecting both domestic and foreign enterprises. Key highlights include stricter oversight of capital contributions, mandatory registration liaison officers, and detailed requirements for intermediaries. Companies must also align their business scope with capital requirements and adhere to market access policies. CW provides expert guidance to ensure compliance with these measures and streamline the registration process in China.
China Further Relaxes Visa-free Transit Policy
China has expanded its visa-free transit policy, effective 17 December 2024, to allow eligible foreign nationals to stay up to 10 days (240 hours), up from the previous 72-144 hours. The policy also increases the number of visa-free entry ports from 39 to 60, with new additions in Anhui, Guizhou, Hainan, Jiangxi, and Shanxi provinces. Nationals from 54 countries, including the US, UK, and Brazil, qualify for this policy. Additionally, China’s unilateral visa exemption program now offers extended stays of up to 30 days and includes academic and cultural exchanges as valid travel purposes.
Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Guangzhou: A 2024 Overview
Foreign direct investment (FDI) continues to shape Guangzhou’s economic growth, cementing its position as a hub for global enterprises. From record-breaking FDI growth in 2023 to milestones achieved in 2024, Guangzhou remains a strategic destination for investors. Key industries, including advanced manufacturing, electronic information, and services, contribute to its diverse industrial base. As a vital part of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, Guangzhou’s pro-business policies and infrastructure attract top global companies. CW CPA provides tailored solutions to navigate FDI opportunities, ensuring compliance and operational efficiency. Learn more about FDI trends and prospects for 2025 in this comprehensive overview.
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.