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Fujian-Taiwan Special Program

Legal Analysis and Policy Application for Taiwanese Fisheries Enterprises Entering the Pingtan Comprehensive Experimental Zone

2022-2023
Case Studies
Invest 2 billion yuan

Case Background

This case involves a typical mainland China investment by a Taiwanese enterprise in the Pingtan Comprehensive Experimental Zone. The project entails a Taiwan-based fisheries company seeking to establish operations in Pingtan, requiring comprehensive legal support spanning investment consultation, corporate registration, land acquisition applications, and operational compliance. From a cross-strait legal perspective, key issues include differences in investment policies between the two sides, registration procedures for Taiwanese enterprises, land approval processes, and eligibility for preferential treatment. As a major platform for cross-strait cooperation, Pingtan has introduced various incentives, such as tax reductions, land use support, and financing facilitation. However, accessing these benefits requires meeting specific criteria and coordinating across multiple government departments. Additionally, the case addresses the alignment of legal systems across the strait, protection of rights for Taiwanese citizens, and management of cross-border capital flows. For Taiwanese fisheries companies planning to invest on the mainland, this case offers valuable insights into policy application and inter-departmental coordination strategies.

Case Challenges

  • Due to differences in legal frameworks across the Taiwan Strait, accurate understanding and application of Mainland laws are required.
  • The process for Taiwanese enterprises to register is complex, involving multiple departments including commerce, industry and commerce, tax, and foreign exchange.
  • Land approval involves multiple departments and requires coordination with the Management Committee, Natural Resources Bureau, and Marine and Fisheries Bureau.
  • Coordinate multiple preferential policies and ensure accurate understanding of their eligibility criteria.
  • Cross-border fund management is restricted; compliant arrangements are required for fund inflows and outflows.

Solutions

  • Provide analysis of legal differences between the two sides and risk warnings to help enterprises understand the mainland legal environment.
  • Assist in preparing registration materials and obtaining the business license to ensure a smooth registration process.
  • Coordinate with the Management Committee, Marine and Fisheries Bureau, and other departments to expedite land use approval.
  • Apply for preferential policies and subsidies for Taiwan-funded enterprises to ensure they receive their entitled benefits.
  • Assist with foreign exchange registration and cross-border fund procedures to ensure compliant inflows and outflows.

Case Outcome

Successfully assisted the enterprise in establishing operations in Pingtan, completing an investment of 2 billion yuan and building a modern aquatic product processing base. The enterprise benefited from multiple preferential policies and received government subsidies totaling 500 ten thousand yuan. Key service highlights include: (1) establishing a standardized onboarding process for Taiwan-invested enterprises, (2) creating a multi-departmental coordination mechanism, and (3) providing policy applicability guidance for similar projects.

Legal Analysis

From a legal practice perspective, Taiwan-invested enterprises entering the Pingtan Comprehensive Experimental Zone should pay close attention to the following: First, accurately grasp the differences between cross-strait legal systems—particularly regarding market access, corporate governance, labor practices, and tax compliance—and engage qualified legal counsel for end-to-end support. Second, successful project execution depends on effective multi-agency coordination; establish clear communication channels with the Management Committee, Commerce Bureau, Administration for Market Regulation, Tax Bureau, and State Administration of Foreign Exchange to resolve issues promptly. Third, eligibility for preferential policies requires meeting specific criteria; thoroughly understand policy requirements before investment and maintain ongoing compliance during operations to ensure uninterrupted benefits. Fourth, cross-border fund management must strictly adhere to foreign exchange regulations; consider engaging specialized firms for foreign exchange compliance services. For Taiwan-based fisheries companies planning to invest in mainland China, conduct comprehensive research on the investment environment and policy trends, and select suitable locations and cooperation models accordingly. Prioritize legal compliance by establishing robust internal management systems to ensure lawful and sustainable operations. Additionally, strengthen communication with local authorities and industry associations to stay informed about policy developments and seize emerging opportunities.

Disclaimer

Not all cases were handled by our team members; copyright remains with the original authors. This content is for legal knowledge sharing only and does not constitute formal legal advice. Do not rely on this information to make any decisions. No member of our team shall bear any legal liability.

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