Industry Access Checker
Check if your industry is open, restricted, or prohibited for foreign investment in China. Based on the 2025 Negative List and Catalogue of Encouraged Industries.
Understanding the Results
Foreign investment actively encouraged with tax incentives and streamlined approval.
Not on the Negative List. Foreign investment allowed with national treatment.
Foreign investment allowed with conditions (JV requirements, caps, etc.).
Foreign investment is not allowed in these sectors.
Browse by Category
Prohibited Industries
Foreign investment is not permitted in these sectors:
- • Genetically modified crop seed research
- • Fishing in Chinese waters
- • Rare earth and radioactive mineral mining
- • Nuclear fuel production
- • Weapons and ammunition production
- • News agencies and broadcasting
- • Internet news and publishing services
Restricted Industries
Foreign investment allowed with conditions:
- • Wheat/corn seed breeding (Chinese majority)
- • Oil/gas exploration (JV with Chinese control)
- • Nuclear power plants (Chinese majority)
- • Airports and air transport (Chinese majority)
- • Telecommunications (49-50% foreign cap)
- • Basic education (specific forms only)
- • Medical institutions (Chinese majority)
Encouraged Industries
Foreign investment actively encouraged:
- • Advanced manufacturing
- • New energy vehicles
- • Biotechnology and medical devices
- • Integrated circuits
- • Artificial Intelligence
- • Clean energy and environmental tech
- • Modern agriculture
Permitted Industries
Not on Negative List - national treatment:
- • Most manufacturing sectors
- • Wholesale and retail trade
- • Software and IT services
- • Professional services (consulting)
- • E-commerce (cross-border)
- • Restaurants and hospitality
- • Logistics and warehousing
Alternative Investment Structures
If your industry is restricted, consider these alternatives:
Joint Venture (JV)
Partner with a Chinese company that meets majority/control requirements. Negotiate management control through shareholder agreements.
Contractual Arrangements
VIE (Variable Interest Entity) structures or contractual partnerships may provide operational control without direct equity ownership.
Free Trade Zones
Some FTZs have more liberal policies than national regulations. Check Shanghai, Hainan, or other FTZs for sector-specific openings.
Adjacent Sectors
Consider related industries that are permitted. For example, if media is restricted, content technology or advertising technology may be open.
Need More Guidance?
Explore our detailed guides on entity types, Free Trade Zones, and the 2025 Encouraged Industries Catalogue.