The short answer
Most activities, including trading, consulting, technology services and manufacturing, are open to 100% foreign ownership through a WFOE.
When you can’t
The 2024 national Foreign Investment Negative List has 29 items. They include, for example, some telecom, media, publishing and education activities. For restricted sectors the options are a joint venture with a Chinese partner, a pilot programme in a free trade zone, or in some cases a VIE structure.
Individuals as owners
A foreign individual can be the sole shareholder. Many investors use a Hong Kong holding company instead, for treaty benefits and easier exits.
Reviewed by Admin, Choi & Partners · 3 October 2026. This page is general information, not legal advice.