Verifying a company’s registration in China is an essential step before signing contracts, wiring funds, or entering into business partnerships. Whether you are sourcing products, engaging a service provider, or investing in a joint venture, confirming a Chinese company’s legitimacy can protect you from fraud, misrepresentation, and costly disputes.
Understanding the System
All legitimate businesses operating in China must be registered with the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) or one of its local branches. These registrations are listed in a centralised public database known as the National Enterprise Credit Information Publicity System (NECIPS), also called GSXT (国家企业信用信息公示系统).
This online system provides detailed information about every legally registered entity in China, including its business licence, legal representative, registration date, and operational status.
Step-by-Step Guide to Verifying a Chinese Company
1. Obtain the Company’s Chinese Name or Unified Social Credit Code
Chinese companies are registered under their Chinese name, not their English trade name.
You’ll need either:
- The Chinese name of the company (e.g., “深圳华星光电技术有限公司”), or
- The Unified Social Credit Code — an 18-digit alphanumeric identifier used nationwide.
Without one of these, verification will be difficult.
2. Search the Official Database
Go to the National Enterprise Credit Information Publicity System (NECIPS) at
👉 https://www.gsxt.gov.cn
Enter the company’s name or code into the search bar. You’ll be able to view:
- Full registered name
- Business licence number
- Legal representative
- Registered address
- Date of establishment
- Operational status (active, revoked, or deregistered)
- Scope of business
If the system shows no results, double-check the spelling or request the company’s official Chinese name and licence copy.
3. Verify the Business Licence (营业执照)
Ask the company for a scan or photo of its business licence.
Check that the following details match the NECIPS record:
- Company name and Unified Social Credit Code
- Legal representative’s name
- Registered address
- Business scope
Any inconsistencies are red flags.
4. Check Provincial or Local Records
In some cases, the local Market Supervision Administration (MSA) or municipal enterprise credit platform provides more recent updates than the national database.
You can search these provincial systems directly if you suspect recent registration changes or want to confirm local compliance.
5. Look for Negative Records
Public records can show whether a company has:
- Been subject to court judgments or enforcement actions
- Declared bankruptcy
- Been blacklisted for regulatory violations
Websites like China Judgment Online (中国裁判文书网) provide searchable databases of court cases.
6. Conduct On-Site or Third-Party Verification
For higher-value transactions, consider a physical site visit or hire a third-party inspection agency to confirm that the business exists at its registered address, and that facilities and staff are operational. This step is common in manufacturing and import/export relationships.
7. Watch for Red Flags
Be cautious if you notice:
- Mismatched or unverifiable company information
- Recently registered or inactive entities
- Legal representatives unrelated to the business line
- Requests for payment to unrelated bank accounts or individuals
Practical Considerations
- Language barrier: The NECIPS website is in Chinese only. You may need translation support or a local partner.
- Operational vs. legal existence: Registration proves the company is legally established, but not that it’s financially stable or actually operating.
- Beneficial ownership: Ultimate control or ownership of the entity may not be visible in public records.
Conclusion
Verifying a company’s registration in China is a vital first step in risk management. By using the official National Enterprise Credit Information Publicity System, cross-checking business licences, reviewing legal records, and confirming operational reality, you can ensure that your business dealings in China are legitimate and secure.