Published by ChinaMNC · Changchun

How Foreign Founders Can Request Government Information in Changchun: A Practical Guide

A concise guide for foreign entrepreneurs on requesting government information from Changchun authorities, covering which agency to approach, how to apply, timelines, and remedies, based on the revised Open Government Information Regulations.

Why Government Information Matters for Foreign Founders

For foreign founders setting up or running a company in China, access to official information can be crucial for due diligence, compliance, and understanding local regulations. Changchun, a major city in Northeast China, provides a formal process for the public—including foreign investors—to request government information. This guide outlines the key steps and considerations based on Changchun’s government information disclosure rules, which implement the revised Regulations on Open Government Information of the People’s Republic of China (effective May 15, 2019).

Which Agency Should You Contact?

The first step is to identify the administrative organ that created or holds the information you need. Each agency produces information according to its functions. For example:

• Land expropriation information is held by planning and natural resources departments.
• Compulsory education information is held by education departments.
• Environmental impact assessment information is held by ecology and environment departments.
• Road construction permit approvals are held by transport departments.

Following institutional reforms, some responsibilities have been transferred; in such cases, the receiving agency is responsible for disclosure. You can check an agency’s specific duties on its official website.

How to Submit an Application

The application process involves three main steps:

1. Review the agency’s “Government Information Disclosure Guide” on its website to understand procedures and precautions.
2. Complete the “Government Information Disclosure Application Form” , which requires:
   • Your name or organization name, identification details, and contact information.
   • A clear and specific description of the information requested (e.g., document name, reference number, or other identifying features) to help the agency locate it accurately.
   • Your preferred format for receiving the information (e.g., method and channel).
3. Submit the form and proof of identity to the agency’s government information disclosure office. If applying by post, send it to that office and mark “Government Information Disclosure Application” on the envelope to avoid delays.

Key Points to Keep in Mind

• Existing information only: Agencies are only required to provide information they have already produced or obtained; they are not obliged to process or analyze data to create new information.
• Commercial secrets and personal privacy: Information involving trade secrets or personal privacy (e.g., identity, communications, health, marriage, family, property) that could harm third-party rights will not be disclosed unless the third party consents or the public interest outweighs the harm.
• Not for petitions or complaints: Requests made in the form of petitions, complaints, or reports will not be handled as information disclosure requests; use the appropriate channels for those purposes.
• Special procedures for certain records: For information such as business registration or real estate registration records, other laws and regulations may prescribe specific access procedures, which should be followed.
• Avoid repetitive requests: It is advisable not to submit repeated requests for the same information.

Available Application Channels

Applications can generally be submitted in person, by post, or online via the government information disclosure column on the agency’s website (e.g., http://zwgk.changchun.gov.cn/ysqgk/zx/). Check the agency’s disclosure guide for specific channels. If no channel is listed, you may choose any reasonable method.

Processing Timeline and Response

Agencies will respond immediately if possible. Otherwise, they will reply within 20 working days of receiving the request. If an extension is needed, they will notify you, and the extension may not exceed another 20 working days.

The processing period starts the day after the request is received. For in-person submissions, the submission date counts as the receipt date. For postal submissions, the date the agency signs for the mail is the receipt date. For ordinary mail without signature, the disclosure office will confirm with you on the day it receives the request, and that confirmation date is the receipt date.

What If You Receive a Correction Notice?

If your application is unclear, the agency may issue a correction notice. You should promptly amend or supplement your request as instructed. If you fail to do so without justified reason, your application may be deemed withdrawn. The response period then restarts from the date the corrected application is received.

How Will You Receive the Response?

Agencies may deliver responses in person, by post, or electronically. If sent by post, they must use China Post (or another qualified postal service for official documents); other couriers without the qualification to handle official documents may not be used.

Remedies If Your Rights Are Infringed

If you believe your lawful rights have been violated in the handling of your request, you may:

• Complain or report to the higher-level administrative organ or the government information disclosure supervisory department.
• Apply for administrative reconsideration.
• File an administrative lawsuit.

Practical Tips for Foreign Founders

When requesting information, be as specific as possible about the documents you need. If you are unsure which agency holds the information, start with the agency that regulates your industry. Keep copies of your application and any correspondence. For company registration or operational matters, consider consulting local professionals who are familiar with the process.

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 company registration and operations in China, foreign founders can contact ChinaMNC on WhatsApp / WeChat at +86 153 1898 8535.