Published by ChinaMNC · Zitong

China Business Guide: How Foreign Founders Can Access Sichuan Government Information

A practical guide for foreign founders on navigating Sichuan's government information disclosure system to support company registration and compliance in China. Learn how to request information, understand timelines, and use official channels effectively.

What This Means for Your China Company Registration

As a foreign founder setting up a company in Sichuan, access to official government information is crucial for compliance and informed decision-making. The Sichuan Provincial Government has established a structured information disclosure system under the Regulations on Open Government Information (State Council Order No. 711). This guide explains how you can use this system to obtain the information you need for registration, licensing, and ongoing operations.

Understanding Active Disclosure: Information You Can Access Without Request

The Sichuan Provincial Government proactively publishes a wide range of information that can be invaluable for foreign founders. This includes:

• Government structure and responsibilities: Details on provincial leaders, department setups, and working rules.
• Regulatory documents: Provincial rules, normative documents, and policies that affect businesses.
• Economic and social development plans: Provincial plans, statistical data, and policies that may influence your business environment.
• Administrative licensing and penalties: Information on permits, penalties, and other administrative actions.
• Financial information: Budgets, government procurement, and administrative fees.
• Major projects: Approval and implementation status of significant construction projects.
• Livelihood issues: Policies on poverty alleviation, education, healthcare, social security, employment, and emergency responses.
• Personnel changes: Government appointments and civil servant recruitment.

For foreign founders, these disclosures can help you understand the regulatory landscape, identify relevant permits, and assess the business environment. Information is published through various channels, including the Sichuan Provincial People's Government Gazette, the official portal website, social media accounts (Weibo, WeChat, Toutiao), press conferences, and media outlets. Additionally, you can access information at the Sichuan Provincial Government Services and Public Resources Trading Service Center, Sichuan Provincial Archives, and Sichuan Provincial Library.

Active disclosure is typically made within 20 working days from the formation or change of the information, unless otherwise specified by laws or regulations.

Requesting Information: A Step-by-Step Guide for Foreign Founders

If the information you need is not actively disclosed, you can file a request. Here's how to navigate the process:

1. Identify the Correct Authority

Before submitting a request, determine which government body holds the information. For example:

• Major construction project approvals and feasibility studies: Contact the Development and Reform Commission.
• Collective land expropriation: Contact the Natural Resources Department.
• State-owned land housing expropriation and compensation, shantytown renovation: Contact the municipal or county government and its housing and urban-rural development department.

You can check the official portal's "Institutional Functions" section to find the responsibilities and contact details of provincial departments.

2. Submit Your Request

The Sichuan Provincial People's Government Office accepts requests in three ways:

• In person: Visit the government information disclosure request reception point at the Provincial Government Services Center. You can obtain and fill out the Government Information Disclosure Application Form on-site.
• By mail: Send the completed application form along with a copy of your valid ID.
• Online: Register on the Sichuan Government Services Network, complete identity verification, and submit your request online. You can track progress through the system.

For in-person requests, bring your valid ID. For online requests, ensure you complete the real-name authentication.

3. Fill Out the Application Form

Provide a clear and specific description of the information you need. Include details such as the document name, reference number, or other characteristics that will help the agency locate the information. If your request is unclear, the agency will provide guidance and may ask for supplementation within 7 working days.

4. Processing and Response

The agency will respond within 20 working days of receiving your request. If an extension is needed, they will inform you in writing, with a maximum extension of another 20 working days. The time taken to consult third parties is not counted.

Possible outcomes include:

• If the information is disclosable, it will be provided or you will be told how to access it.
• If the information is not held by the agency, you will be informed; if possible, they will direct you to the responsible agency.
• If the request is repetitive, it may be rejected.
• For certain information like business registration or real estate records, special procedures may apply.

Note that the agency is not required to process or analyze existing information; it will provide information as it is stored.

5. Fees and Appeals

Information processing fees may apply according to regulations. If you believe your rights are infringed, you can complain to a higher-level agency or the government information disclosure supervisor, or apply for administrative reconsideration or file an administrative lawsuit.

Practical Tips for Foreign Founders

• Check active disclosure first: Many common questions are answered through proactively published information, saving you time.
• Be specific: Clearly describe the information you need to avoid delays.
• Use online channels: The online request system is convenient and allows tracking.
• Keep records: Save copies of your requests and responses for your files.
• Seek professional advice: For complex matters, consider consulting with local experts who understand the system.

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.