An Introduction to Doing Business in China 2026
Published: December 2025China remains a vital market for global companies in 2026, offering scale, integrated supply chains, advanced infrastructure, and deep innovation capacity that few economies can replicate. Despite rising regulatory and operational complexity, sustained investment continues where long-term market access and strategic value justify commitment. This 2026 edition of An Introduction to Doing Business in China provides practical guidance to help investors and executives navigate China’s evolving business environment with confidence.
China steps into 2026 facing a complex global environment shaped by geopolitical tensions, evolving trade dynamics, and heightened regulatory scrutiny. Despite these challenges, the country continues to offer unparalleled opportunities: a population of over 1.4 billion, a rapidly expanding middle class, and a world-leading manufacturing and logistics ecosystem that drives innovation and efficiency. For global firms, operating in China is not just about accessing local consumers – it’s about maintaining global competitiveness and anticipating future rivals.
Recent trends underscore this reality. In the first 10 months of 2025, retail sales reached RMB 41.2 trillion, and over 53,000 new foreign-invested enterprises were registered, even as overall foreign investment slowed. At the same time, regulatory developments, from tightened tax supervision and cybersecurity law amendments to new procurement rules favoring domestic products, signal the need for rigorous compliance and strategic planning.
An Introduction to Doing Business in China 2026 equips investors and business leaders with up-to-date, actionable guidance on market entry, regulatory compliance, and operational best practices under these evolving conditions. Whether you are planning to enter China or optimize existing operations, this guide offers clarity, practical strategies, and expert insights to help you succeed in one of the world’s most dynamic markets.
Doing Business in China 2026 covers the following:
- Establishing and Running a Business
- Tax, Audit, and Accounting
- Human Resources and Payroll
- Cybersecurity and Data Protection
Within these chapters, we discuss a range of different topics that affect doing business in China, including investment models, intellectual property considerations, key taxes applicable for foreign companies, various types of employment contracts, and a chapter explaining the evolving data and cybersecurity compliance requirements in China. For business inquiries, reach our advisors at: china@dezshira.com.