China operates a value-added tax (VAT) system known locally as Zēngzhíshuì (增值税). China is a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and maintains a VAT system broadly aligned with international VAT/GST principles, though it incorporates distinct features reflecting the country’s administrative and economic framework
Chinese VAT is now governed primarily by the Value-Added Tax Law of the People’s Republic of China, passed by the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress on December 25, 2024, and effective January 1, 2026. This landmark legislation replaced the long-standing Interim VAT Regulations that had governed the system for over three decades, formally elevating VAT from administrative regulation to national statute. VAT is administered by the State Taxation Administration (STA). The tax authority is responsible for issuing guidance, processing VAT registrations and returns, overseeing compliance obligations, and enforcing VAT rules in China.
Businesses carrying out taxable activities in China — whether resident or nonresident — must comply with Chinese VAT obligations. This includes VAT registration where required, applying the correct VAT rates, issuing VAT-compliant invoices (known as fapiao), maintaining appropriate accounting records, and filing periodic VAT returns in accordance with Chinese VAT rules.