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Formation

How Much Does It Cost to Start a Company in China?

Formation fees, government charges and first-year costs explained.

This guide is currently available in English only.

Formation fees

Our published packages cover coordination, documents, licence, chops and tax registration. Pro adds a registered address, bank account assistance and import/export registration; Plus adds accounting, tax filing and a dedicated account manager.

Government and third-party fees

  • Registration and licence charges paid to authorities
  • Company chop carving and public security filing
  • Registered address rental (if you do not have your own office)
  • Bank account opening charges
  • Notarization, legalization, translation and courier costs

First year versus ongoing costs

Formation is a one-time fee. From month one you should budget monthly accounting and tax compliance (from $99 to $399 per month depending on volume and employees), plus payroll services if you hire. Year two and beyond typically costs address rental plus monthly compliance — the formation fee does not repeat.

What changes the price

  • City and district
  • Industry and business scope
  • Company type (WFOE, representative office, joint venture)
  • Foreign shareholder structure and document legalization volume
  • Whether you need an address, import/export rights, employees or special licences

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