China Eases Rules for Foreign Ownership in Listed Companies

As China opens its capital markets, the “Measures for the Administration of Strategic Investment in Listed Companies by Foreign Investors” (effective December 2, 2024) offer a prime opportunity for foreign investors. This policy facilitates strategic investments and partnerships, providing a clear path to access China’s vast market while supporting the global expansion of Chinese enterprises. Cross-border equity swaps, a key feature, enable partnerships that go beyond traditional investment models, offering more flexible opportunities. By streamlining investment processes and enhancing governance, the policy fosters long-term, mutually beneficial relationships in key sectors like technology, industrials, and energy. This is the moment for foreign investors to capitalize on China’s economic transformation and drive global growth and innovation.

1. Policy Background and Key Changes

The Ministry of Commerce and the China Securities Regulatory Commission, among other departments, have jointly issued the “Measures for the Administration of Strategic Investment in Listed Companies by Foreign Investors” ((Decree No. 3 of 2024, hereinafter referred to as the “New Measures”), effective on December 2, 2024.

The updated measures build on the 2005 version (Decree No. 28 of 2005, hereinafter referred to as the “Old Measures”), highlighting China’s commitment to opening its capital markets and providing clear pathways for global investors while supporting the international growth of Chinese enterprises.

Major Changes in the New Measures

Compared to the Old Measures, the New Measures have made the following adjustments to further encourage foreign strategic investment:

Other Key Updates:

• Foreign investors must disclose holdings via QFII/RQFII and Stock Connect.
• Cross-border equity swaps are now permitted.
• Streamlined post-investment reporting to commerce authorities.
• Professional opinions required to ensure compliance with foreign strategic investments.

2. Strategic Opportunities: Focus on Cross-Border Investment and Partnerships

1) Enhancing Foreign Investment Opportunities through Cross-Border Equity Swaps

The New Measures present a fresh, powerful opportunity for foreign investors and Chinese companies alike through cross-border equity swaps. Key benefits include:

• Lower Entry Barriers: Fewer restrictions on shareholding ratios make it more straightforward for foreign investors to acquire significant stakes in Chinese firms. Chinese businesses, in turn, gain access to global capital, enhancing their ability to scale more rapidly. While most mergers and acquisitions today are settled in cash, the relaxation of cross-border equity swaps encourages the use of alternative financial tools, offering more flexible investment options.
• Strategic Flexibility: Cross-border equity swaps open the door for more customized investment structures, enabling investors and Chinese companies to create strategic partnerships that support global expansion.
• Access to High-Growth Markets and Strategic Sectors: Foreign investors now have enhanced access to China’s rapidly growing sectors, including industrials, high technology, and energy, where government policies are driving modernization and attracting significant investments. Key foreign strategic investments are increasingly focused on state-owned enterprises (SOEs) through equity swaps and joint ventures, supporting SOE reforms and fostering international partnerships. Additionally, sectors like energy and power are benefiting from policies that encourage cross-border collaboration and long-term growth.

2) Simplifying Investment Processes and Enhancing Governance

With the New Measures, the regulatory process has been streamlined. The shift to post-investment reporting significantly cuts down approval times, making it easier and faster for foreign investors to close deals. Chinese companies are also encouraged to strengthen their governance practices, ensuring greater transparency. Stronger governance means less risk, building foreign investors’ confidence when they engage in joint ventures or acquisitions.

3) Strengthening Strategic Partnerships and Expanding Market Reach

The New Measures pave the way for deeper, long-term relationships between foreign investors and Chinese companies. Cross-border equity swaps lay the foundation for these partnerships, offering access to China’s large consumer market and integrating foreign firms into global supply chains. Collaborating with local Chinese companies also gives foreign investors valuable insights, helping them navigate and innovate within China’s fast-changing business environment.

As noted by Hutong Research in the “China Economy Q&A” report, policy changes like the debt-mitigation plan, which allows local governments to settle payments to vendors and employees, are expected to be more effective than direct stimulus in boosting investor confidence. These measures, along with the “New Measures” that ease asset requirements and reduce lock-up periods, align with China’s broader goal to create a more investor-friendly environment, offering strategic opportunities for global expansion and partnership.

3. Case Study: Challenges and Policy Solutions in Shanghai RAAS’ Cross-Border Equity Swap

Background:

On March 30, 2020, Shanghai RAAS Blood Products Co., Ltd. (Shanghai RAAS, 002252.SZ) announced a share issuance to Grifols. S. A. (“Grifols”) for a 45% stake in Grifols Diagnostic Solutions Inc. (“GDS”). The shares were listed on March 31, with Grifols transferring 45% of “GDS” equity to Shanghai RAAS on March 13. This case study is sourced from Grifols’ official website.

Significant Challenges:

1. Legal and Regulatory Hurdles: Shanghai RAAS had to prove it was exempt from ‘M&A Regulations’ due to its joint venture status. The process was further complicated by international legal frameworks and uncertainties about approval from the Ministry of Commerce.
2. Complex Approval Process: Stricter global scrutiny on foreign investments, plus multi-jurisdictional antitrust concerns, delayed the deal, risking shareholder value and complicating synergy realization.

The New Measure is designed to optimize cross-border equity swaps for Chinese firms and their international partners in the following three keyways:

1. Streamlined Approvals: The shift from pre-approval to post-investment reporting significantly cuts down the time needed to complete cross-border deals.
2. Optimized Financial Structure: By allowing cross-border equity swaps through share issuance, companies can reduce financial pressure and optimize tax planning. This is particularly beneficial for capital-intensive firms looking to expand globally.
3. Stronger Legal Protection: A clear legal framework based on “M&A Regulations” and the new “Strategic Investment Measures” provides better protection for cross-border transactions. The negative list for foreign investment entry further guides investors, minimizing risks.

4) Seizing New Investment Opportunities in China’s Evolving Market

The New Measures unlock exciting new opportunities for global investors interested in China. Cross-border equity swaps and streamlined regulatory processes reduce entry barriers, allowing international companies to partner more easily with Chinese firms.

This policy creates a dynamic environment where both sides can benefit. Chinese companies gain access to global capital, technology, and expertise, while foreign investors tap into China’s massive market potential. The result? Long-term, mutually beneficial partnerships that fuel innovation and strengthen business ecosystems.

Whether you’re looking to expand globally or collaborate on innovative technologies, the New Measures offer the chance to be part of China’s next phase of market growth and international transformation.

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References

1. Security Regulatory Commission, Measures for the Administration of Strategic Investment by Foreign Investors in Listed Companies, http://www.csrc.gov.cn/csrc/c100028/c7516180/content.shtml, 01 Nov 2024
2. Grifols and Shanghai RAAS close their strategic alliance in China, Grifols and Shanghai RAAS close their strategic alliance in China, 27 Mar, 2020
3. China Economy Q&A: China’s Economy vs US Tariffs, Q&A: China’s Economy vs US Tariffs – Hutong Research, 18 Nov, 2024