MOFCOM 2026 Foreign Investment Optimization Plan
Published: January 26, 2026
Executive Summary
The Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) unveiled a comprehensive plan to optimize foreign investment policies for 2026. Key measures include expanding market access, strengthening intellectual property protection, streamlining approval processes, and enhancing post-investment services for foreign enterprises already operating in China.
Key Points
Market access expansion: more sectors removed from negative list, particularly in services
IP protection: faster patent examination for foreign applicants, specialized IP courts
Approval streamlining: single-window system for foreign investment registration expanded nationwide
Post-investment services: dedicated liaison officers for large foreign-invested projects
Complaint mechanism: strengthened channels for foreign enterprises to raise regulatory concerns
Equal treatment: national treatment principle reinforced across government procurement and standards-setting