Features & Analyses

Before starting any programme of mass lay-offs in China, companies must be aware of the legal issues and the appropriate procedures to follow. By Nancy Sun and Kirsten Gao, Minter Ellison, Shanghai.

The Shanghai government has announced a set of incentives to attract more multinational companies to establish their headquarters in the city. By Laura Yuan, King & Wood.

Foreign companies are contemplating how to restructure their loss-making or low-profit China operations. There are several good options available, and several unwise choices, too. By Ghislain de Mareuil and Julie Tong, DLA Piper, Shanghai.

New measures formalise and streamline the process for making capital contributions using equity, although they may raise approval issues for foreign-invested enterprises.

The US has complained to the World Trade Organisation that China's IP rights protection and enforcement legislation violates international agreements. A WTO panel has presented its report and both sides are claiming victory. By Jan Bohanes and Adrian Emch, Sidley Austin, Geneva and Beijing.

With China's real estate market declining, local authorities are taking measures to boost investment. But central government support has been mixed.

With China's real estate market declining, local authorities are taking measures to boost investment. But central government support has been mixed.

China has revised its Patent Law for the third time, and issued the first proposed draft amendments to the Implementing Regulations. There are key changes relating to invention patents and utility models. These should better align the Law with international standards, but there will be notable implications for foreign-invested companies. By Ronald Chu and Annie Tsoi, Deacons.

Employers in China are facing more labour arbitrations as employees take advantage of free tribunals and increased rights. Foreign companies are at most risk. They must keep good documentation and pay close attention to balancing internal rules and local law.