Published by ChinaMNC · Nanguan

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

A step-by-step guide for foreign founders on filing government information disclosure requests in Changchun, based on the revised Open Government Information Regulations.

How Foreign Founders Can Request Government Information in Changchun

For foreign founders establishing or operating a company in China, access to official government information can be crucial for compliance and planning. The revised Regulations of the People's Republic of China on Open Government Information, effective May 15, 2019, set out the procedures for requesting such information. This guide, based on guidance from the Changchun Municipal Government's open government information authorities, explains how foreign founders can navigate the process.

Which Agency to Apply To

The first step is to identify the administrative agency that created the information you need. Each agency produces information according to its administrative functions. For example, planning and natural resources departments handle land expropriation information, education departments handle compulsory education information, ecology and environment departments handle environmental impact assessment information, and transport departments handle road construction project permits. Applicants should direct their requests to the appropriate agency based on the type of information sought. Following institutional reforms, some responsibilities have been transferred; in such cases, the agency receiving the transferred authority is responsible for disclosing the information. Specific agency duties can be found on their official websites.

How to Submit an Application

Applications should follow these three steps:

• Step 1: Visit the agency's website and read its "Government Information Disclosure Guide" to understand the process and precautions.
• Step 2: Complete the "Government Information Disclosure Application Form" as per the guide. The form requires: (1) the applicant's name or entity name, identification information, and contact details; (2) the name, document number, or other characteristics of the requested information, described as accurately and specifically as possible to aid precise retrieval; and (3) the desired form of access, including how and through what channels the information should be provided.
• Step 3: Submit the form and proof of identity to the agency's government information disclosure office. If submitting by post, send it to that office and mark "Government Information Disclosure Application" on the envelope to avoid loss or delay.

Key Points to Note

When applying, keep the following in mind:

• The requested information must already exist—agencies are not required to process or analyze existing information to create new content.
• If the information involves trade secrets or personal privacy (such as others' identity, communications, health, marriage, family, or financial status) and disclosure would harm third-party rights, the agency will not disclose it. However, disclosure may occur if the third party consents or if non-disclosure would significantly affect the public interest.
• Requests made in the form of petitions, complaints, or reports will not be handled as information disclosure requests; applicants will be informed and directed to appropriate channels.
• For information such as business registration or real estate registration records, other laws and regulations may prescribe special procedures, which should be followed.
• It is advisable not to submit repeated requests for the same information.

Application Channels

Applications can be submitted in person, by post, or online through the government information disclosure column on government websites (http://zwgk.changchun.gov.cn/ysqgk/zx/). Specific channels are listed in each agency's disclosure guide. If an agency's guide does not specify a channel, applicants may choose any reasonable method.

Processing Time and Calculation

Agencies will respond immediately if possible. If not, they will reply within 20 working days from receipt of the application. If an extension is needed, the agency will notify the applicant, and the extension may not exceed 20 working days. The processing period starts the day after the application is received. For in-person submissions, the submission date is the receipt date. For postal submissions, the date the agency signs for receipt is the receipt date. For ordinary mail without signed receipt, the disclosure office will confirm with the applicant on the day the application is received, and the confirmation date is the receipt date.

Handling Correction Notices

If the applicant receives a correction notice, they should promptly make changes or supplements as specified. Failure to correct without justified reason will be treated as withdrawal of the application. The response period will then be calculated from the date the corrected application is received.

Delivery of Responses

Agencies will deliver responses by direct delivery, post, or electronic means. If sent by post, it must be through postal enterprises; other courier companies without national official document delivery qualifications may not be used.

Remedies

If an applicant believes their lawful rights have been infringed in the disclosure process, they may complain or report to the higher-level agency or the government information disclosure supervisory department, or apply for administrative reconsideration or file an administrative lawsuit according to law.

This summary is based on information published by the relevant Chinese government website and is general information, not legal or tax advice.

Foreign founders can contact ChinaMNC on WhatsApp / WeChat at +86 153 1898 8535 for help registering and operating a company in China.