Dear Business Owner, If you are planning to hire employees in China—or already have—you’ve probably noticed that China’s employment law system works very differently from what you may be used to. As a lawyer working closely with foreign-invested companies, I often see the same issues arise: misunderstandings about employment structures, underestimating compliance requirements, and avoidable disputes that end up being costly. This guide highlights the most important employment law issues foreign employers should understand when operating in China. Employment vs. […]

As China’s civil aviation industry enters a phase of high-quality development, foreign pilots—once highly sought after and commanding million-dollar salaries—are now facing tough decisions about their career paths. For over two decades, foreign pilots have played a pivotal role in China’s aviation sector, from supplementing flight routes to providing critical technical training. However, following regulatory tightening in 2019, the grounding of the 737 MAX, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the maturation of domestic pilot training, the situation has changed. The pilot […]

On June 27, 2025, China’s top legislative body approved the most comprehensive revision to the Public Security Administration Punishment Law in nearly twenty years. The updated law expands from 114 to 144 articles and will officially take effect on January 1, 2026. This major overhaul introduces new rules addressing digital-era misconduct, campus bullying, drone safety, and public order. Below are the nine most important changes. 1. Clear Definition of Legitimate Self-Defense: “Fighting Back ≠ Mutual Assault” For the first time, […]

As cross-border trade and investment between China and the rest of the world continue to expand, disputes between foreign companies or individuals and Chinese businesses have become increasingly common. These disputes often involve contract performance, delayed shipment, payment defaults, or product quality issues. For foreign parties, the key concern is: how to effectively and legally resolve such disputes in China while protecting their rights? Common Types of Cross-Border Contract Disputes Contract performance issues: late delivery, failure to meet agreed standards. […]

Dividing real estate during a cross-border divorce in China can be complex, influenced by several key factors. This article provides insights into the critical aspects that determine how properties purchased during marriage are split, especially when one spouse is foreign. 1. Core Principle: Real Estate Law of the Property’s Location Applies In cross-border divorces, the fundamental principle is that the property law of the location where the property is situated governs its division. According to Article 36 of the Chinese […]