China - Distribution and Sales ChannelsChina - Distribution and Sales
While the ability of foreign-invested firms to import, export, and distribute goods in China has improved, the licensing and approval process remains difficult, time consuming, and highly opaque. A standard business license, which contains a “scope of business” that details the activities the firm is permitted to undertake, is issued by municipal Administrations of Industry and Commerce. Most businesses require further permits or permissions from other regulators. For example, a distributor of medical devices will require both a business license with the appropriate scope of business from the Agency of Industry and Commerce as well as a permit from the local Food and Drug Administration.
Sales channels available to foreign companies selling in China include trading companies, distributors, and local agents and internet platforms.