What are the required documents representative offices (ROs) need to provide to complete an Administration of Industry and Commerce (AIC) annual inspection in China?

ROs are required to complete an AIC annual inspection between March 1 and June 30. Generally the following documents should be provided:

• Annual inspection report (the template will be distributed by AIC around March)
• Business registration certificate
• Proof of information on the legal status and standing of the headquarters overseas
• Audit report

The audit report of an RO will only be conducted on its incomes and expenses and is much simpler than that for other foreign-invested enterprises (FIEs). It should also be signed by an authorized Chinese CPA (certified public accountants) firm and submitted to the AIC by the end of June.