What documents are required to register a small manufacturing company in Shanghai, and how long does the licensing process take?

Thanks. Documents such as identity documents proving the identities of the investors, details as to local China employee office holders (legal rep), plans for the initial office location, business plan outline, business scope, intended company name, etc are all needed to get the ball rolling.  Usually, no more than one month is needed these days from submission of all required documents, to issue of the business license. Post business license issues, including recording with SAFE, Customs, Tax Office, etc. There may be capital verification and local bureau approvals depending on the nature of the manufacturing. This would need to be investigated.