Best Corporate & Commercial Lawyers in Shanghai

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Tiance Law Firm
Shanghai, China

Founded in 1986
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
About TianceTiance Law Firm ("Tiance") was founded in 1986. It is a well-known large-scale comprehensive law firm in China and a leading law firm in the Yangtze River Delta region. It is also recognized by the market as an elite law firm with excellent professional service capabilities. . Tiance...
Hui Ye Law Firm
Shanghai, China

Founded in 1986
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
Huiye Law Firm (hereinafter referred to as "Huiye") is a leading comprehensive law firm in the country that specializes in commercial legal services. In recent years, Huiye has won many awards and industry qualifications, and has been rated as one of the top 30 Asia-Pacific law firms by ALB and...

Founded in 1946
2,057 people in their team
English
Chinese
At Arnold & Porter, we are client-driven and industry-focused. Our lawyers practice in more than 40 practice areas across the litigation, regulatory and transactional spectrum to help clients with complex needs stay ahead of the global market, anticipate opportunities and address issues that...
Gf Law Firm
Shanghai, China

Founded in 1999
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
Shanghai Guangfa Law Firm was founded in 1999 and was approved by the Ministry of Justice and the China Securities Regulatory Commission in 2000 to engage in securities legal services. Since its establishment, Guangfa Lawyers has been engaged in securities finance and capital market legal services,...
Fangda Law Firm
Shanghai, China

Founded in 1993
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
We have approximately 800 lawyers in our six offices in major Chinese cities: Beijing, Guangzhou, Hong Kong, Nanjing, Shanghai and Shenzhen. We operate as a single, integrated partnership, not as an alliance of lawyers in different locations.Our lawyers collaborate seamlessly across practice groups...
Shipudong Law Firm
Shanghai, China

Founded in 1992
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
Our law firm was founded in early 1992. in the past 20 years or so, since its establishment and with the efforts of all lawyers, our firm has become one with a substantial scale and a distictive characterics of foreign features. Our firm has won the reputation in the legal circle. In the past...

Founded in 2021
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
Shanghai Bright & Young Law Firm is incorporated according to the Lawyers Law upon the approval of Shanghai Justice Administration as a comprehensive law firm consisting of a number of partners and one of the most vigorous law firms with the great potentialities in Shanghai. BYLF operates under...
Jiehua Law Firm
Shanghai, China

Founded in 1994
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
Shanghai Jiehua Law Firm was established in July 1994.It is the group member unit of Shanghai law society,and is the second batch of enterprise bankruptcy case manager of Shanghai,and is Shanghai good foundation legal units.Ever since the establishment of Jiehua, by continuously pursuing the...
La Nao Consulting
Shanghai, China

Founded in 2009
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
What We Do​La Nao Consulting is a professional services firm with offices in Hong Kong, and representatives in Shanghái and Buenos Aires. We offer integrated solutions to companies wishing to enter the Chinese market or seeking to grow their operations in this region.​Our team includes...
Huisheng Law Firm
Shanghai, China

Founded in 1995
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
Huisheng Law Firm was established in June 1995. It is one of the earliest partnership law firms in China, providing services in foreign-related maritime affairs, freight logistics, marine insurance, foreign investment, corporate business, international trade, and real estate. It enjoys a high...
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About Corporate & Commercial Law in Shanghai, China

Corporate and commercial law in Shanghai, China governs the establishment, operation, and regulation of businesses and commercial activities. As China's largest city and commercial hub, Shanghai is home to many multinational corporations, joint ventures, foreign-invested enterprises, and domestic companies. The legal framework covers areas such as company formation, mergers and acquisitions, contracts, foreign investment, intellectual property, compliance, and dispute resolution. Given its economic importance, Shanghai's business environment is shaped by both national legislation and a range of local policies aimed at facilitating commerce and foreign investment. Understanding the regulatory environment is key to successful and compliant business operations in the city.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Engaging a lawyer who specializes in corporate and commercial law in Shanghai can be vital for several reasons. Common situations include:

  • Establishing a new business entity or subsidiary
  • Drafting, reviewing, or negotiating commercial contracts
  • Structuring mergers, acquisitions, or joint ventures
  • Handling compliance with local regulations and industry standards
  • Advising on foreign investment rules and procedures
  • Protecting intellectual property rights
  • Resolving commercial disputes or litigation
  • Managing employment and labor law matters
  • Corporate restructuring or bankruptcy proceedings

Lawyers help ensure that your business activities are legally compliant, minimize risks, and provide strategic advice tailored to your objectives.

Local Laws Overview

Shanghai follows the national legal framework of the People's Republic of China, particularly the Company Law, Contract Law, Foreign Investment Law, and other related regulations. However, Shanghai also enacts local rules and has established special economic zones such as the China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone which offer preferential policies, streamlined procedures, and unique regulatory experiments.

Key aspects of local laws relevant to corporate and commercial activities include:

  • Registration and licensing requirements for businesses, including foreign-invested enterprises
  • Corporate governance rules regarding shareholders, directors, and officers
  • Mergers, acquisitions, and restructuring procedures
  • Contractual obligations and enforcement of commercial agreements
  • Specific compliance obligations for industries like finance, technology, and manufacturing
  • Intellectual property protection measures with local enforcement mechanisms
  • Taxation policies, accounting standards, and financial reporting
  • Labor laws addressing employment contracts, benefits, and dispute resolution

Shanghai authorities pay close attention to compliance, anti-corruption, and transparency, especially in highly regulated sectors and for businesses engaging in cross-border transactions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What business structures are available in Shanghai for foreign investors?

Common options include wholly foreign-owned enterprises, joint ventures with Chinese partners, representative offices, and partnerships. The choice depends on your business goals, industry, and level of desired control.

How long does it take to register a company in Shanghai?

The process can take from two weeks to several months depending on the type of entity, industry approvals required, and completeness of submitted documentation. Utilizing the Shanghai Free Trade Zone may expedite certain procedures.

Are there restrictions on foreign investment in Shanghai?

Some sectors are restricted or prohibited for foreign investment, while others may require special approvals. The National Negative List governs these restrictions, and local rules sometimes offer additional incentives or limitations.

How are commercial contracts enforced in Shanghai?

Contracts are generally enforceable under Chinese law, provided they do not conflict with public policy or legal prohibitions. Disputes can be resolved through litigation in local courts or through arbitration bodies in Shanghai.

What are the main tax obligations for companies in Shanghai?

Companies must pay corporate income tax, value-added tax, withholding taxes, and social security contributions for employees. Tax rates and exemptions may vary depending on the entity type and location.

How does Shanghai protect intellectual property rights?

Shanghai provides protection for trademarks, patents, copyrights, and trade secrets. Enforcement is available through administrative channels, civil litigation, and criminal prosecution for serious violations.

Can a foreign company hire employees directly in Shanghai?

Foreign companies without a registered entity in China generally cannot hire employees directly. Establishing a local entity or engaging an authorized human resources agency is required.

What are common compliance issues for companies in Shanghai?

Frequent issues include compliance with foreign investment rules, labor and social insurance laws, tax obligations, anti-bribery measures, and data protection regulations.

How can I resolve a commercial dispute in Shanghai?

Disputes can be resolved through negotiation, mediation, litigation in local People's Courts, or arbitration in bodies like the Shanghai International Economic and Trade Arbitration Commission (SHIAC).

Are there incentives for foreign investors in Shanghai?

Shanghai offers tax incentives, subsidies, simplified registration, and other benefits particularly in the Free Trade Zone and for certain high-tech, innovation, and strategic industries.

Additional Resources

  • Shanghai Municipal Administration for Market Regulation - for business registration and compliance information
  • Shanghai Free Trade Zone Administration - for investment and trade policy guidance
  • Shanghai Intellectual Property Administration - for IP protection and registration
  • Shanghai Municipal Human Resources and Social Security Bureau - for employment law matters
  • All China Lawyers Association - to locate qualified lawyers and firms
  • Shanghai International Economic and Trade Arbitration Commission (SHIAC) - for arbitration services
  • Chinese embassies and consulates - for guidance relevant to foreign companies and investors

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with corporate or commercial matters in Shanghai, start by identifying your specific needs, whether it's company formation, contract review, compliance advice, dispute resolution, or other corporate issues. Gather all relevant documents and information related to your case. Contact a reputable law firm or licensed lawyer with experience in the Shanghai legal environment. Be prepared to explain your business objectives and challenges in detail. Consulting with a legal professional at an early stage can help you avoid common pitfalls, ensure compliance, and position your business for success in Shanghai's fast-evolving commercial landscape.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Shanghai through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Corporate & Commercial, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Shanghai, China - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.