Published by ChinaMNC · Wuling
How Foreign Founders in China Can Request Government Information: A Guide to Changde’s Disclosure System
Practical guidance for foreign founders on using Changde’s government information disclosure system, including application steps, response times, and fees.
Understanding Government Information Disclosure in Changde
For foreign founders registering or operating a company in China, access to official government information can be essential. The Changde Municipal People’s Government provides a formal channel for requesting government information that is not already publicly available. This guide outlines the key points from the official notice, helping you navigate the process efficiently.
Before You Apply: Check Public Sources First
Under China’s Regulations on Open Government Information (revised by State Council Order No. 711 on April 3, 2019), many government records are already proactively disclosed. Before submitting a formal application, the government recommends checking channels such as government gazettes, official websites, government social media accounts (Weibo and WeChat), news media, and public notice boards. This can save you time and effort.
What Information Can Be Requested?
Requestable information refers to records that administrative agencies produce or obtain while performing their administrative functions, and that are stored in some form. However, if your request requires the agency to process or analyze existing information, the agency may decline—unless the information can be separated in accordance with Article 37 of the Regulations.
Filling Out the Application Form
The application form requires three main elements:
- Applicant details: Your name or company name, identification document, and contact information.
- Description of the information: The name, document number, or other characteristic details that make it easy for the agency to locate the information.
- Format preferences: How you want to receive the information (e.g., by mail or email).
When describing the information, avoid vague phrases like “XXX and other information,” “all information about XXX,” or “information related to XXX.” Be as specific as possible.
Frequency and Volume Limits
If your requests are clearly excessive in number or frequency, the agency may ask you to explain why. If the agency finds your reasons unreasonable, it will inform you that the request will not be processed. If the reasons are reasonable but the agency cannot respond within the 20-working-day period (see below), it may set a reasonable extension and notify you.
What the System Does Not Cover
The online system only handles government information disclosure requests. For matters related to business registration, real estate registration, or other information with special legal provisions, follow those specific laws and regulations. For petitions, complaints, reports, inquiries, or suggestions, use other appropriate channels.
How to Submit Your Application
Citizens, legal persons, or other organizations should submit the application form in writing—including electronic form. If writing is genuinely difficult, you may make an oral request, and staff will fill out the form on your behalf. The form can be sent to the government information disclosure department by mail or email.
Response Time and Format
If the agency can answer your request immediately, it will do so on the spot. Otherwise, it will respond within 20 working days from receipt of the application. With the approval of the head of the government information disclosure office and notification to you, this period can be extended by up to another 20 working days. Responses will be provided in the format you specify, such as paper mail or email.
Fees
The agency provides government information free of charge. However, if the number or frequency of requests clearly exceeds a reasonable range, information processing fees may be charged according to relevant regulations.
Contact Information
Changde Government Website address: 4th Floor, Zhangyuyuan, No. 2533 Liuye Avenue, Wuling District, Changde City. Technical support: 0736-7755111.
This summary is based on information published by the relevant Chinese government website and is general information, not legal or tax advice.
For assistance with registering and operating a company in China, foreign founders can contact ChinaMNC on WhatsApp / WeChat at +86 153 1898 8535.