Business Opportunities in Shandong Province’s Hydrogen Industry

02 Nov 2021

energy, fuel cells, Global Connect Admin, Hydrogen, Industry, innovation, opportunities, Shandong

Hydrogen energy is the new priority in battling the pressing issues of climate change. China Hydrogen Energy Alliance predicts that this industrial development will result in a hydrogen energy market demand of 35 million tons by 2030 and that hydrogen energy will be 10% of the total energy supply in China by 2050. Shandong Province launched on June 18th 2020 the guidelines for the upcoming 10 years regarding the medium- and long-term development of the hydrogen industry. In this article we elaborate on the tactical choice for Shandong Province, discuss the goals of the development plan and look at the opportunities this upcoming industry can have for you.

Why Shandong?

Shandong Province (山东省) lies on the east coast of China. With a population of around 102 million and a coverage of 157 square kilometres of land, it is the 3^rd largest economic powerhouse in China. Only the Jiangsu Province and the Guangdong Province trump the Shandong Province. Knowing the facts, there are three arguments that the Shandong Province published the hydrogen plan.

Shandong Province has a solid foundation for green hydrogen production. With the largest installed capacity of photovoltaic power, the 4^th largest installed capacity of wind power in China, and 5.7 million kilowatts of nuclear power, Shandong has the foundation to produce green hydrogen in the future utilizing these new and green energy systems.

Shandong Province is one of the frontrunners in China in terms of chemical, metallurgical and energy industries. Originating from the rich petroleum and coal reserves, and decades of large-scale mining and investment in petro-and coal-chemical facilities, Shandong holds a unique advantage in producing hydrogen as a by-product of fossil-powered industries. This so-called grey hydrogen is produced around 2.6 million tons annually in the Shandong Province, resulting in an opportunity for large-scale utilization with comparably low costs and maintaining high quality.

Shandong has deep collaboration with research institutes and leading universities across the country. More than 50 enterprises and research institutes in Shandong have been involved in the hydrogen industry and combine powers to make significant progress in aspects such as key materials, core components of fuel cells (FCs), system integration, high-end and efficient energy storage and more.

Goals

The plan argues to establish Shandong in the leader position in hydrogen development. Aspects under this denominator are constructing hydrogen and Fuel Cells (FC) demonstration zones by strengthening innovation and research, accelerating hydrogen applications and demonstrations, improving the manufacturing on the equipment level, as well as building and maintaining the industrial chain and ecology. This plan consists out of three stages.

Opportunities

The Rijksdienst voor Ondernemend Nederlands (RVO) argues that there are opportunities on this market for companies and research institutes who “have developed advanced technologies and/or products for the hydrogen industry”. To carry out a joint venture in Shandong, strong R&D and innovation capabilities can be helpful. While Shandong has the competitive advantages in the production of grey hydrogen from their industrial activities, large-scale mining and coal and petroleum reserves, the main flow of innovation and R&D, is found in external institutions outside the province and even outside the country. Resulting in heavy dependence on these institutes. However, and obvious from their reliance, Shandong is openly welcoming new international parties, starting fruitful cooperation’s, and welcoming hydrogen talents. Shandong Province will keep focussing on strengthening their relation, cooperation and exchange with international organisations such as International Hydrogen Energy Association and the International Hydrogen Energy Commission. Further, Shandong enterprises will be encouraged to set up R&D platforms and create joint ventures (JV’s) abroad to facilitate cooperation. To maintain Shandong’s position in the case of the hydrogen industry, Shandong proposes to formulate standards for the hydrogen industry chain with the assistance of thorough cooperation with foreign standard organisations.

RVO argues about the major technical bottlenecks in the hydrogen industry. Acting upon these can enhance the Shandong hydrogen chain/systems and guarantee your place in the industry. Examples are hydrogen storage and materials for fuel cell vehicles (FV’s), fuel cell (FC) oil-free air compressor and/or hydrogen pump, transportation equipment, high-efficient production & storage & transportation of liquid hydrogen and pipeline transportation. Recommended sectors to adhere to are FC technology and application to commercial vehicles and equipment, green hydrogen technology utilizing solar, wind and nuclear energy in Shandong. To read all the bottlenecks and recommended sectoral perspectives, we kindly request to visit RVO.nl

For more information about personal advice regarding international business advice, tax situations or consolidation (in China), Global Connect Admin B.V. can assist you with these challenges due to the rich experience and framework of connections.

Source

https://www.rvo.nl/sites/default/files/2020/08/Report-on-Shandong-Hydrogen-Industry.pdf

Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in China: How can they benefit your company?

25 Oct 2021

China

Benefits, China, Comparison, Development, Incentive, Industry, Investment, SEZ, ShenZhen, Special Economic Zone

Marking the 40^th anniversary of China’s Special Economic Zones (SEZ), further scrutinization can start regarding the influence of the Special Economic Zones. Opposing the frequent usage of “SEZ” as a buzzword, what does it precisely entail and more importantly what advantages have these zones. How do the rules and incentives set these economic zones apart from Mainland China, and are these capitalistic hotspots beneficial for your organisations?

What are Special Economic Zones?

Chinese Special Economic Zones are areas with different regulations and business policies than in Mainland China. These zones can vary in function and scope but all adhere to the principle of supporting (specific) economic functions in globalising aspect. SEZs have been implemented since the late 1970s as part of the Chinese market reform in the conquest of realising the entrance to the international market. Remarkable is the placement of these SEZs: manifested in areas with a potential for high import and export volumes, being in the vicinity of airport and harbours, and / or being nearby natural sources. Resulting in the coverage of the east coast of China in the early stages of the SEZs to the establishment of SEZs in rural Xinjiang, to trade free zones (Shanghai), and regional zones that stimulate technology as seen in Dalian. Thus, in these 40 years of development, China opened coastal cities and created national and local high-tech zones to further attract investments. Nowadays, the fruitfulness of these experimental zones can be analysed: SEZs contribute 22% of China’s GDP, 45% of total national foreign investment and 60% export, and created an estimate of 30 million jobs.

The purpose of the Special Economic Zones

The purpose of the Chinese Special Economic zones, including the open coastal cities and the regional zones, is to attract foreign investments, innovation, and knowledge. These opportunities for China, and the fact that it is a cheap labour country, stimulates the build and development of infrastructure. Shenzhen in the Guangdong province, as one of the initial four SEZs, is the beneficiary of this Special Economic Zone: transformed from a fishing village to a nationwide, even worldwide, centre of innovation and development. Housing tech giants, telecommunication companies and even claiming to be the first to achieve “full coverage” of 5g within the tech hub of China’s Silicon Valley. As a reaction, the initial four SEZs transformed into 19 local development zones, 7 large-scaled SEZs, local and national free trade areas, and high-tech zones. As the purpose to foster globalisation in China becomes evident. However, how are SEZs applicable to your business?

What are the benefits of China’s Special Economy Zones?

To ensure and stimulate foreign investors, the regulations in the SEZs (including open coastal and local zones) are made to attract. While exact policies or regulations can change over time (e.g. due to supply and demand of investors), the overarching advantages are as follows :

Tax incentives:
- Reduced income tax: down to 15% (SEZ) versus 33% (Mainland)
- Elimination of corporate tax under losses;
  - Being profitable after losses will result in reduced taxes for 5 years
- Exemption of local taxes in certain industries
Special economic policies:
- Duty-free export
- Lowering import tariffs
Foreign companies are allowed to set up joint ventures
The local government has legislative authority

With all these benefits it is no wonder that SEZs attract a lot of foreign investments and thus benefit the flourishment of the Chinese economy. However, while SEZs are keeping the interests of investors high with the incentives, special economic policies and other benefits, China is slowly starting to applying these experimental policies as tested in the SEZs into the national policy. Furthermore, in line with the changes in Mainland China: the newest procedure is cutting the red tape to ameliorate the investment options in Mainland China.

Conclusion

Currently, the incentives of the SEZs do not need to be causally related to the success of the high-tech and developed metropolises (e.g. Shenzhen). While the economic liberation is surely impactful for the growth of certain districts and businesses, not all of the 54 “special” zones have been successful. With constant development, creating new SEZs, changing regulations, the business-friendliness and the special tax programs for new entrants, the Special Economic Zones are even more convenient for new investors that are aiming to advance to the Chinese market. Knowing this, will your company be the next booming business in one of the Chinese Special Economy Zones?

If interrested, we at Global Connect Admin provide administrative advice for European and cross-border businesses. Do you have any questions regarding the Special Economic Zones, or need other information to do business successfully? Feel free to send us any questions our way; we would love to assist you.

Sources

Experts hail pivotal role of special economic zones – Chinadaily.com.cn

经济特区：中国改革开放的伟大创举__凤凰网 (ifeng.com)

Special Economic Zones in China (SEZs): Characteristics & Benefits – Intrepid Sourcing

investing-in-africa-forum-chinas-special-economic-zone.pdf (worldbank.org)

Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) in China and the 15-year Plan.

25 Oct 2021

China

Business, case study, China, Global Connect Admin, Intellectual property rights, IPS, preperation, Registration, Trademark

Are you planning to do business in China? One of the most important, but often forgotten, aspects is the protection of your intellectual property rights (IPR). Without this protection, others can copy your product or service and sell, import, or export these without your agreement. In this article, a real-life example is analysed, we discuss the need for IPR registration, recommend the best timeframe to register, and elaborate the 15-year IPR plan. All to prepare you for business in China.

Case study

In the China business week hosted by the Rijksdienst voor ondernemend Nederland (RVO), the commercial manager of Rymax Lubricants elaborates their relation with the Chinese property right system.

At the beginning of the establishment of the brand, the first step of business for Rymax Lubricants was not to expand to the Chinese market. However, they quickly were active on the Chinese market yet without their knowledge. Due to product previews and/or showcasing their products at events, Chinese fraudsters took immediate action. They registered the trademark of Rymax Lubricants with the Chinese government and duplicated everything: from the site and the logo to the complete mirroring of the advertisement video. The Chinese company behind the fake Rymax, sold their own oil while lifting on the European brand and success of Rymax.

After a long juridic battle, Rymax remained to have no power in China. Trying to take down the Chinese website or use their European intellectual property rights to tackle the stolen trademark also bore no success. After years of battling, Rymax changed their trademark, and thus the brand name, and immediately registered their intellectual property rights in China. Nowadays, Rymax Lubricants is active in the Chinese market and is having a fruitful business in China.

Should you register you intellectual property rights?

Registering for intellectual property rights is highly recommended when doing, or planning, to do business in China. In the case of registration, you can request websites with your products to go offline, request a court order, or cooperate with Chinese customs in the case of infringements.

According to the first-to-file system in China, your intellectual property is not protected if your property or patent is not registered to the official Chinese authorities. In the case of Rymax Lubricants, the lack of property rights in China shows the territorial nature of registration. Importantly, in China, the first to file is the owner of the intellectual property right, even while this is not the original owner or inventor of the service/ product. This is called a bad faith registration and happens because there are no user requirements to register for a trademark. Be aware to also register the following aspects of your company:

Production in China

When you are solely producing in China, it is recommended to register your trademark. Without trademark registration, there is an unnecessary risk and vulnerability that results in a higher probability of intellectual property infringement.

Copyrights

Registration of copyrights is theoretically unnecessary since they get automatically protected. However, to diminish challenges or disputes it is recommended to also register your copyrights.

Brand name

Besides registering your products, it is important to register your brand name. Here it is recommended to register your original brand name and the Chinese brand name of your product.

When to register?

To ensure that you are in charge of your intellectual property, you should register the aforementioned aspects before making your product or service public. This entails before advertisements, selling your products/ service, or fairs. When this is not done in time and thus not registered by yourself but by someone else, registering in China is not possible anymore.

Remarks when registering

When registering, be aware of the following tips to make the registration process as smooth as possible:

Be aware that there are other regulations regarding intellectual property rights in Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan. They have differingjuridical systems than in mainland China. Meaning that different protocols are present and that different intellectual property rights registration are needed in these regions.

Foreign appliers for registration (e.g. trademark, brand name) without a juridical presence in China need to apply via a local patent agent to successfully submit the registration request.

China’s 15-year plan

On September 22, the Chinese government announced the 15-year plan (2021-2035) to assist the development of intellectual property rights (IPR). The plan entails that the IPR protection becomes stricter, which results in a higher level of public satisfaction in the business branch, and thus a greater market value of IPR by 2025 for the Chinese market. By 2035, the IPR competitiveness within China will develop and rank among the top in the world as elaborated in the plan. The emphasis in building this IPR protection system and supporting the world-class business environment, encouraging motivation by the operating system of IPR in the market, convenient and beneficial system for the public and boosting the participation in the global IPR governance.

Conclusion

With this article, we hope to have you sufficiently informed about the complete picture around the Chinese trademark registration and the Intellectual property rights . As previously emphasised, and as seen in the case study, we highly recommend to not take the risks for disputes or infringements (especially in a foreign country). For more information about If interested in personal advice regarding international business advice, tax situations or consolidation (in China), Global Connect Admin B.V. can assist you with these challenges due to the rich experience and framework of connections.

Sources

China Business Week 2021 | Agenda (b2match.io)

China issues guideline for IPR development (www.gov.cn)

Intellectueel eigendom China | RVO.nl | Rijksdienst

From Beach Destination to Global Influential Trade Port: Hainan’s Masterplan

11 Oct 2021

China

China, Global Connect Admin, Hainan, Investment, Master Plan, Oppertunity, Regulations, SEZ

Hainan, the tropical destination on the south coast of China is more than a wedding island. Announced on June 1st this year, the Masterplan by the Chinese government is to transform the entire island province into China’s biggest special economic zone (SEZ). By 2025, this trade port is “basically” established and by 2035 this system will focus on the free and convenient flow of trade and investment. Whereas this results in global presence and influence, what does this Masterplan entail and what are the potentials for economic trade and welfare?

What is the Masterplan?

The Masterplan for the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP) is aimed at the transformation of the southern island province into the flagship of trade ports. While already coined in 2017 as a concept, and approved by the province in 2018, the implementation of the FTP is currently ongoing. Moreover, one of the main aspects is that the FTP can easily cooperate and compete with the high-level ports of Hong Kong, Singapore and Dubai due to the international location. While the Hainan Free Trade Port is basically established in 2025, the maturing of the port will continue decades after the establishment. Here, the prospect is to establish a fully developed high-level free trade port including strong international influence around the year 2050. Bearing this in mind, there will be 4 major steps in the timeline for achieving different stages of development:

Hainan Free Trade Port policy highlights

For investors, the key policeis under the Masterplan yield the most importance weighting the opportunities that the Hainan FTP can provide. Therefore, a few policies will be highlighted to further explore the potentials Hainan can offer:

Taking the timeline and the benefits of the new Free Trade Port policies into account, the district of Hainan is an interesting development in the further globalisation of China. In the search for competitiveness among the high-level free trade ports such as Singapore and Hong Kong, the Masterplan for the Hainan Free Trade Port is aimed to be established in 2035 to fully realized these characteristics. The maturing of this FTP will continue until 2050, where Hainan should be established as a competing port with strong international influence. To optimize the potentials of the establishment of the Free Trade Zone (2025), and simultaneously the Free Trade Port (2035), we need to bear in mind that some industries have relatively more preferential support. According to RVO, the following industries will have these extra benefits in terms of taxation and restrictions within the Hainan Free Trade Port (see figure 2 points .2 & .3): Tourism – Modern service – New and High Tech – Retail (Duty-Free Consumer Goods) – Cruise and Yacht – Cultural and Sports – Education – Landscaping (Island loop Scenic Highway design) – Shipping – Air Transportation – Finance Lease – Offshore Trading – Modern Finance – ICT – Advanced Manufacturing – Medical Services and Pharmaceuticals – Oil, Gas and Chemicals – Deep Sea Technology – Modern Tropical Agriculture – Aerospace – Headquarter Economy.

Conclusion

Being aware of the potentials in the abovementioned sectors, the Hainan Free Trade Port can be seen as a good alternative to the Hong Kong, Singapore, and mainland China ports. With the international located position of the Hainan FTP, goods, people, and data can be easily transported to the mainland market due to the free flow in the first line and the efficient control at the second line. Whereas all the enterprises benefit from the full implementation of Zero-Tariffs on the entire island of Hainan and the increased duty-free shopping quota per person per year, the encouraged industries have competitive tax rates and exemption of duties when trading to mainland China in the case of Hainan processed goods having an added value of 30%. To conclude, the Hainan Free Trade Port is an interesting and encouraging development that should be followed closely to further evaluate the potential investing prospects.

Do you have any questions regarding the new Hainan Free Trade Port, or want other vital information to do business successfully? Feel free to send us any questions our way; we would love to assist you.

Sources

China-Briefing

RVO

Accounting in China: The differences between Chinese GAAP and IFRS

27 Sep 2021

China, Cross-border, Europe, GAAP, IFRS

Accounting, Amelkis, CAS, China, cross-border, Differences, GAAP, Global Connect Admin, Global Connect Consultancy, IFRS, Overview

With the opening of the Chinese economy to foreign investments in the past 40 years, China is transforming into a global economic hub. However, with the standardisation of business administration with the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), foreign investors need to be cautious of the differences between the global IFRS and the local Chinese GAAP. In this article, these inconsistencies between IFRS and Chinese GAAP are getting analysed, as well as looking into the optimal preparation for this challenge.

To increase the foreign direct investment (FDI) into the Chinese economy, the Public Republic of China (PRC) implemented special economic zones (SEZs) to further develop towards the biggest global economy. Hence, on the business administration level, this inquires for own accounting rules referred to as the Chinese Accounting Standards (CAS) or the Chinese General Accepted Accounting Principles (Chinese GAAP). While the CAS is implemented to reduce financial fraud or to optimize China’s tax strategy, in an international context the function of IFRS is to streamline international accounting regulations and transparency. Meaning, that the IFRS should be applied on top of the CAS so that the company can both adhere to the international and the local rules. Nowadays, while China starts to converge more with the IFRS principles, the Chinese GAAP still differs from the well-known and familiarized IFRS trademarked by foreign investors.

Background

The organ of the Accounting Regulatory Department of the Ministry of Finance (MoF) is responsible for setting the accounting standards in China. As the previous regulations of the CAS were mainly concerned with sorting a balance sheet of the state-owned industry in the socialist era, the regulations in current years are aimed to reflect the financial status, analyse the operating results, and maintain transparency (for the state). The Chinese GAAP has two subordinate accounting policies:

In 2001, the GAAP initialy included the Accounting Standards for Business enterprises (ASBE01), however, the ASBE01 was in 2006 further transformed into the ASBE06. The ASBE06, which currently is still required for all publicly traded enterprises in China, is the main set of accounting measurements. Luckily, the Chinese GAAP (ASBE06), has key similarities with IFRS. For small-sized business cooperations, there is a special set of accounting measurements called the Accounting Standards for Small-Sized Business Enterprises (ASSBE). This standard can be seen as a merger between IFRS and ASBE06 and has the goal to make it easier for small enterprises to follow the tax regulations and accounting standards.

Differences Chinese Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (Chinese GAAP or CAS) and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS)

Knowing that the CAS and IFRS have similarities, it is evident that the foreign investor should be aware of the regulations that differ within these sets of accounting rules. Hereby the differences between the CAS (GAAP) and IFRS:

Valuating Fixed Assets

Whereas the IFRS has the choice to utilize the preferred method of valuating fixed assets, the CAS does not endorse this flexibility. In IFRS, one can opt for re-evaluating the assets or use the historical-cost valuation method. In CAS, only the latter is agreed upon to be used when valuating fixed assets.

Implementation Delays

Whenever IFRS updates/changes are released, these new IFRS rules are not immediately, and in some cases never, adopted in the CAS. In short, the Ministry of Finance (MoF) will review the latest release of the IFRS and see if it can be adopted into the China business framework. For foreign investors, this means that 1) the IFRS updates are delayed, 2) the IFRS might never be applied and thus results in 3) the IFRS regulations can be different than in other countries. This can lead to serious problems in companies with an overarching implementation of IFRS changes (e.g. software) in all of the subsidiary ventures.

Common Services in China

When handling cases of common service in China, the CAS has a more detailed description of the situation. For example, In the case of merging two companies with similar interests and under the control of one entity. The CAS requires a restatement of the figure while IFRS has no specific rules for this situation.

Uncommon Services in China

Opposite to the previous point, uncommon situations in China are less detailed than the IFRS counterpart. The Italian-Chinese Chamber of Commerce exemplifies this difference by looking at employee benefit plans. The CAS has no specific rules for staff benefits offered by international firms besides payments in the firm’s stock. In the case of using benefits packages for its subsidiaries, the mother company can get into serious problems and should always have contact with the MoF to address and record such transactions accurately.

Fiscal Year

The fiscal year of the CAS starts from January 1^st, while the start of the fiscal year can be decided by the company when applying IFRS. Regarding IFRS, the year must be 12 consecutive years.

How to successfully do business in China regarding the Chinese Accounting Standards?

To minimalize the potential risk of conflicts with the law, it is recommended for foreign investors to notice the differences between CAS and IFRS and apply both of the accounting standards in the right way. In this process of familiarizing with CAS, the differences should be known, and the contact between the firm and the Ministry of Finance should be optimal to resolve challenges and uncertainties. Moreover, be aware that the CAS can only be filed in the China language, and that short-cuts in the Chinese accounting world often result in serious delays and non-compliance: further complicating the international business. Thus, in the case of maintaining an overview of both CAS and IFRS, even while it is about 90-95% similar, it is recommended to have (specialized) agencies on your side. With experts on the topic, it is evident that the venture is assisted by experience. This way, the short straw will not be drawn when dealing in an unknown and new business environment.

For more assistance in the field of IFRS, the newest software by Amelkis can support enterprises to customize and analyse data while preserving an overview of the IFRS regulations.

If interested in personal advice regarding international business advice, tax situations or consolidation (in China), Global Connect Admin B.V. can assist you with these challenges due to the rich experience and framework of connections.

When intrigued by the personal IFRS-software solution, Global Connect Consultancy B.V. offers help with the installation, optimization, and customization of the Amelkis software Solution.

Source:

China-Italy Chamber of Commerce

The New Transatlantic Agenda: The Journey to a bright US-EU Future

Just as the year before, 2021 is another year with many changes. The European Commission has published new documents on the New Transatlantic Agenda. We are entering a new era with the US re-joining the Paris Agreement and President Joe Biden supporting the World Health Organization (WHO). With the enrollment of European green energy projects and the COVID-19 vaccines, together with global cooperation, the future seems brighter. However, there is still a lot to do before the European Union and the United States can sit back and relax.

Challenge 1: COVID-19 pandemic

Perhaps the biggest challenge for both the US and the Netherlands is the COVID-19 pandemic. Luckily the USA has re-joined the WHO. At the same time, the WHO is making sure vaccines are distributed to the developed world. This distribution is in everyone’s interest because the economy cannot go back to normal until the pandemic is completely vanquished and the world economy is restored.

Challenge 2: Digitalization

Forced by the pandemic, the speed of digitalization has significantly increased. Hopefully, the next time emergencies happen, the world is better prepared and able to act more efficiently with strategic autonomy. Protectionism is not the answer; we need to invest in our strengths and those of other countries. The EU aspires to be the world leader in energy, defense, key technologies and raw materials. The US is an exciting partner for the EU, and vice versa.

Challenge 3: Free Trade Agreements

“America First” became “Build Back Better.” The US economy has to be sufficiently competitive, and there are still actions needed to combat trade issues, but establishing FTAs can support this. Former-president Donald Trump blocked the application for new WHO memberships, which created uncertainty for businesses. If there is one thing businesses do not enjoy, it is uncertainty. President Biden has lifted the application block, which helps rebuild the partnership between the US and the WHO.

Challenge 4: US-China Trade War

China continues to both assist and challenge the world. The US and China have opposite technology and societal systems. In the past years, trade wars occurred between the two nations, affecting the EU. It seems the EU has to choose one of the two eventually, which adds fuel to the fire. The US and the EU have familiar societal systems and dialogue on technology. However, China is the EU’s leading supplier of goods. What will happen in the future is something only time can tell.

Challenge 5: Climate change

Organizations need to align a common strategy to make the best out of online platforms and big tech. With a solid plan, the approach to critical technologist protection, global change program implementation, and continuing the EU-US technology trade council goes sufficiently smoother. A big topic right now is climate change, with the US immediately re-joining the Paris Agreement at the start of President Biden’s inauguration. To reach the 2030 and 2050 climate goals, an ETS system (Emissions Trading System) is necessary. In 2005 the EU established the first large greenhouse to combat climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The EU ETS is the first global greenhouse gas emission trading-scheme and still the largest. If two immense economic powers (hint: the US and the EU) were to share the same system, we can effectively combat global warming, bringing hope to future generations. Another future investment is hydrogen: the EU is busy setting up hydrogen projects. We have not reached our climate goals. However, with the US back in the Paris Agreement, the future seems promising.

Are you wondering how to establish or expand your business to China or the US? As an experienced global administration office, Global Connect Admin can assist you with all matters of financial management, company administration, accounting and bookkeeping, and much more. Feel free to talk to us.

Related GCA articles

Cross-Border Positions during the pandemic

The 2021 New Year Resolutions of China in Economy and Finance

The investment for the future: Hydrogen

US, China, EU, and the Trade War

The trade war between China and the United States – The consequences for Europe

Sources

AmCham – VNO-NCW

Cross-Border Positions during the pandemic

Image by slon_dot_pics

Cross-Border positions, also referred to as external positions, are most likely for any organization that goes global. Suppose your organization has its main office in, for example, the United States, with branches in Europe and/or Asia. In that case, you will have asset and liability positions of reporting banking offices outside the US. Cross-border financing helps with international trade by providing a source of funding, enabling businesses to compete globally and beyond their domestic borders. This sometimes requires the lender or provider to act as an agent between companies, suppliers, and end-customers. Examples are cross-border loans, letters of credit, repatriable income, or bankers acceptances (BA).

With the global pandemic forcing organizations to change strategies or even their core business, many have expanded globally or relocated to another country. We have taken a closer look at the changes in cross-border positions worldwide by viewing outstanding claims and liabilities of Q3 2020 in trillions of US dollars.

Developed countries

Between Q3 2019 and Q3 2020, cross-border claims on developed countries increased by 1.75 trillion USD, with the liabilities increasing by 1.46 trillion USD.

Claims in developed countries, otherwise called advanced economies, have declined. Intragroup positions partly drove the movements from one year earlier. The decline is centered on related offices, especially on those in the US, due to the unwinding of central bank dollar swap lines.

Non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs) were involved with the decline; claims on the UK, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, France and Italy declined, with most of them vis-à-vis NBFIs. Another partly offset influence was the increase in Japan and Germany’s claims, notably their NBFIs and resident banks.

During the pandemic, creditor banks in developed countries and offshore centers have reported a large contraction in their cross-border claims on emerging markets and developing economies (EMDE). During Q2 and Q3 of 2020, global cross-border shares on emerging markets and developing economies declined by 95 billion USD. Major developed countries and offshore creditors – such as UK, US, Hong Kong, Singapore and Japan banks – reduced their lending to developing countries by 97 billion USD in these six months.

Offshore centers

The Q3 2020 claims have increased by 0.07 trillion USD in the offshore centers, with the Q2 2020 liabilities increasing by 0.15 trillion USD.

Compared to claims on developed countries, claims on offshore centers expanded by 41 billion USD. Especially Hong Kong SAR and the Cayman Islands have been doing well. More than half of Hong Kong’s increase was intragroup claims, with Singapore and Bermuda having the least growth.

Emerging market and developing economies

The Q3 2020 claims increased 0.03 trillion USD compared to Q3 2019. The Q3 2020 liabilities, compared to Q3 2019, have increased as well, with 0.13 trillion USD.

Cross-border claims on emerging markets and developing economies continued to fall, driven again by claims on Latin America and the Caribbean, with the year-on-year growth remaining negative. Just as one year earlier, these movements were partly driven by intragroup positions. Claims on non-financial corporations in major economic regions of Brazil, Mexico, Chile, Colombia and Argentina declined the most.

As mentioned earlier, creditors reported a large contraction in cross-border claims in developing countries. However, simultaneously, creditor banks within these countries reported a modest expansion. In contrast to the reduced lending of 95 billion USD, banks in EMDE booked a 26 billion USD increase in cross-border claims during Q2 and Q3 2020. The banks that led this expansion in emerging Asia-Pacific were mainly China and Chinese Taipei.

Before you expand or start abroad, it is helpful to know what parts of the world are convenient for your business. Having cross-border positions in countries such as the US, the Netherlands, France, Germany, and Japan can be rewarding; however, even though they work well together, each country and/or state has individual rules. Meanwhile, China and Russia have many business opportunities, but you must have high insider knowledge to use and find all the business possibilities. The UK has always played a big part in the global economy; however, much has changed due to Brexit. In case you want a professional to help you with this, feel free to send us a message. As the saying goes: a good beginning is half the work.

Related GCA articles:

The 2021 New Year Resolutions of China in Economy and Finance

The Brexit impact on Japan

Brexit: Some pointers for you and your company

More Global Transparency on Assets and Less Tax Havens on the List

Cooperation between China and Central-Eastern European Countries (CEEC) is to be deepened

Sources

BIS

Happy Chinese New Year!

12 Feb 2021

China, Current news

2021, China, Chinese New Year, year of the Ox

Your Global Connect Admin Team wishes you a happy Chinese New Year!

We hope that the Year of the Ox brings you health and prosperity.

Hopefully, this will be the year that the coronavirus is under control.

2020 was a rough year for everyone; however, may 2021 bring warmth and positivity.

As the Chinese say: 牛气冲天 Strong like a bull!

The 2021 New Year Resolutions of China in Economy and Finance

11 Feb 2021

China, Current news

2021, BOC, Central Economic Work Conference, China, China 2021, economic outlook China, financial outlook, green finance, People's Bank of China

2020 was a year full of challenges and finding new means of fiscal innovations. The global economies suffered due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, China ended up the first G20-country to be recovering. This recovery has to do with Beijing’s policy responses and epidemic control strategy, which is quite remarkable since China was the pandemic’s epicenter. Economics expect that China’s economy will be as strong as it was pre-pandemic.

From 16 to 18 December 2020, the Central Economic Work Conference was held in Beijing, with the CPC Central Committee and the Central Military Commission members. President Xi Jinping summarized the economic work in 2020, analyzing the current economy. In his speech, he explained the specific arrangements and planning of the economic work in 2021. On 6 January 2021, the People’s Bank of China (PBOC) published an online financial outlook statement. The PBOC adheres to the general principle of pursuing progress while ensuring stability. Furthermore, the bank offers adequate financial support in new developments. Some of the key takeaways are:

Financial support mechanisms

Support for technology innovation, private companies, and enterprises from medium- to micro-sized is on its way. This support includes an extension of PBOC inclusive loan repayment policies and loan support programs, with guidance from financial institutions.

Innovation of technology

Meanwhile, the Chinese government wishes to strengthen national strategic scientific and technological capabilities. This is exciting news for scientific research institutions and universities since they will be involved in this new nationwide system.

Implementation of a prudent monetary policy

PBOC calls the policy flexible, precise, reasonable, and moderate. This policy is beneficial for the market-oriented reform of the renminbi’s (RMB) exchange rate. China continues to advance the RBM’s internationalization, promoting and developing local and foreign currencies in onshore and offshore markets.

Control of the industrial supply chain

According to the Chinese government, the industrial and supply chain’s security and stability are the foundation for new developments. Major industry problems, from fundamental issues to complex weak points, need to be solved to strengthen the economy.

Leverage of financial technology

PBOC carries out digital currency pilot programs to encourage credit reporting in digital finance and economic governance, to combat and monitor money laundering.

Domestic demand

The Chinese government needs to promote employment and shared prosperity, improve social security, optimize income distribution structure, and expand middle-income groups. For this to happen, the government needs to invest in education, forming a strong domestic market, rationally guiding consumptions, savings, and healthcare. China continues to invest in the digital economy and new infrastructure to strengthen unified planning and macro guidance. Therefore it is necessary to overall plan industrial layouts and to avoid repeated destruction of emerging industries.

Reforming and opening-up of the financial sector and the economic socialist market system

China wishes to improve diversified channels for bond default disposal and implement a prudential management scheme for real estate finance and a high-level socialist market economic system. This involves participation in global financial governance, expanding the two-way opening-up in the financial sector and the capital market, and keeping the foreign exchange reserve scale stable. China is also considering joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement, keeping in mind the importance of using internationally accepted rules to maintain national security.

Improvement of the macro-prudential policy framework

For a faster improvement, China brings major financial activities, institutions, markets and infrastructures under macro-prudential management, improving financial holding companies’ supervision system.

Anti-monopoly

Combatting monopoly and unfair competition is an inherent requirement for improving the socialist market economy system. The Chinese State supports the innovation and development of platform enterprises as well as public and non-public economies. While enhancing international competitiveness, it is necessary to regulate under the Chinese law and improve digital rules, such as data collection and consumer rights.

Prevention and diffusion of financial risks

The PBOC takes measures to enhance prudential supervision of financial activities of internet platform companies. This strengthens an anti-trust push, prevents the disorderly expansion of capital, and improves inclusive financial services.

Advance of green finance

One of the global hot topics is carbon neutrality. Just as the European Commission, China has familiar carbon neutrality goals in mind: achieving carbon neutrality by 2060. China channels more financial resources toward green development for the green future, promoting a carbon emission trading market and continuing international green finance cooperation.

With or without COVID-19 in mind, doing business with China can be challenging. However, with adequate preparations, you can get off to a great start in a country known for global trade and healthy economies. Are you curious about your opportunities? Feel free to talk to us; we are happy to help you on your way or find someone who can assist you.

Related GCA articles:

The 2020 New Year Resolutions of China in Finance

An Update on the Clean Energy Industry in China

Openness of the Chinese Financial Market is substantively Enlarged

The New IFRS 16 in China

Sources

People’s Bank of China (中国人民银行) – Chinese Government (中华人民共和国中央人民政府) – People’s Daily Online (人民网)

Workshop Tax advantages for Dutch companies

06 Mar 2019

Aktuelles, China, GCA on Tour, Niederlande, Steuerplanung

Global Connect Admin Tax Workshop für Chinese Companies in the Netherlands

On March 5, the Global Connect Admin Tax Workshop for Chinese Companys in the Netherlands took place in Amsterdam. More than 30 interested participants of Chinese companies based in the Netherlands took part in our seminar “Tax advantages for a Dutch company”. Our tax experts have provided information in Chinese and English on relevant topics of Dutch tax legislation. The focus was on low corporate tax rate, which is still decreasing in recent years, no withholding taxes for interests and royalties, withholding tax for dividends as low as 15% (to Chinese residents is 10%) and possible participation exemption.

Furthermore, the latest news in tax regulations in 2019 was on the agenda: The Global Connect admin team explained to the participants that 19% and 25% in 2019, respectively. The substantive tax will increase, which is 25% in 2019 and the lower VAT rate has increased to 9% in 2019. In addition, it dropped Wealth tax rate insignificantly. Expat settlement has been shortened to 6 years in 2019. A number of innovations that must be observed in the company administration.

The second part of our seminar was very practical and focused on invoice compliance requirements. Using concrete examples, the participants from all over the Netherlands were able to practice the correct billing process.

Do you have any questions about tax advantages for Dutch company? Please feel free to contact us directly to see what GCA can do for you. Global Connect Admin B.V. (GCA) is a trusted partner in all matters of company administration, financial management, bookkeeping and accounting. As an experienced administration office, we provide our client with an extensive package of services. We closely align these services with our clients’ specific needs and adapt our corporate culture to guarantee a long-term partnership.