China Questions

• China question: What are the most common legal challenges when expanding a franchise?

  My business is already in China, but I want to expand it from its current base in Shanghai through franchising.

  March 11, 2013

• China question: How can I use letters of credit with Chinese suppliers?

  I am a buyer and realise that most transactions with China suppliers are done through bank transfers, but I would like to know how to use letters of credit, as I have heard they can better protect me

  January 16, 2013

• China question: How do I protect my trade secrets?

  I am thinking of setting up an R&D facility in China. I have read many horror stories about employees leaving with trade secrets. How should I structure my employment contracts to minimise risk?

  November 13, 2012

• China question: How can I win the PR battle in litigation?

  I am suing a company in its home town. The company is a big employer. How can I avoid a situation where lots of negative publicity is created that could put pressure on the judge hearing the case?

  September 12, 2012

• China question: Where to invest?

  I am looking to set up a factory to manufacture equipment in China. I have heard that the coastal regions have become too expensive and that I should consider inland regions. Is this true? How does the legal framework differ from province to province?

  July 12, 2012

• China question: What are the liabilities for a failed WFOE?

  The economic slowdown has caused many WFOEs to shut down leaving bad debt. Under Chinese law, what are the liabilities for managers, directors and the shareholders?

  June 01, 2012

• China question: How can I import products into China under lower tariffs?

  I have heard that China has cut some of its import duties. Which products are affected under the new measures and how can I import products into China under the lower tariffs?

  May 04, 2012

• China question: How do I flush out informal and oral agreements, hidden shareholders and undisclosed liabilities, and give myself more comfort and protection?

  During mergers and acquisitions, the target company provides some short and simple Chinese contracts, but I understand there are informal arrangements behind the papers. How do I flush out informal and oral agreements, hidden shareholders and undisclosed liabilities, and give myself more comfort and protection?

  March 28, 2012

• China question: How do I get my trademark recognised as well known?

  I would like to get my trademark recognised as well-known in China. I have heard it is possible to do this through a judicial or an administrative procedure. Which is the best route to choose and what evidence do I need to provide to obtain the status?

  February 28, 2012

• China question: How do I initiate litigation for a breach of contract?

  Two dispute resolution specialists offer their insights on how to handle bringing a Chinese manufacturer to court and how to avoid a similar situation in the future.

  December 06, 2011