Doing business in Guangzhou

Industries and opportunities
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Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong Province in southern China, is a key economic center and a vital gateway for international trade. As one of China’s largest and most developed cities, Guangzhou has a rich industrial base, a vibrant economy, and a strategic location near Hong Kong and Macau.
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Manufacturing and Industrial Production
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Guangzhou is a significant manufacturing hub, particularly in light industry, electronics, and automotive production. The city’s industrial zones host numerous multinational corporations and local enterprises, making it a crucial part of the global supply chain.
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Key Areas: Electronics, automotive, textiles, and home appliances.
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Notable Companies: GAC Group, Midea Group, and Foxconn.
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Opportunities: The city’s emphasis on industrial modernization creates opportunities for foreign companies in advanced manufacturing, robotics, and automation. The shift toward Industry 4.0 provides a market for innovative manufacturing solutions.
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Automotive Industry
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The automotive sector is one of Guangzhou’s most important industries, with a concentration of vehicle manufacturing, parts suppliers, and R&D centers. The city is a key player in China’s automotive market, with a focus on both traditional and electric vehicles (EVs).
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Key Areas: Vehicle manufacturing, automotive parts, and electric vehicles.
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Notable Companies: Guangzhou Automobile Group Co., Ltd. (GAC), Toyota, and Honda.
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Opportunities: Guangzhou’s thriving automotive industry offers opportunities for foreign companies in vehicle production, auto parts manufacturing, and electric vehicles. Partnerships with local automakers or the establishment of manufacturing plants can be lucrative.
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Trade and Logistics
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Guangzhou’s historical role as a trading port continues to be a significant part of its economy. The city’s logistics and trade sectors are well-developed, benefiting from its proximity to the Pearl River Delta and extensive transportation networks. Guangzhou is also home to the China Import and Export Fair (Canton Fair), one of the largest trade fairs in the world.
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Key Areas: Import/export trade, logistics services, e-commerce, and supply chain management.
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Notable Companies: COSCO Shipping, JD.com, and SF Express.
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Opportunities: Guangzhou’s role as a major trade hub offers significant opportunities for foreign logistics companies, shipping firms, and e-commerce platforms. The city’s connections to global supply chains make it an ideal location for regional distribution centers.
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Financial Services
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Guangzhou is a growing financial hub with a strong presence in banking, insurance, and asset management. The city is a key part of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area, which is aimed at integrating financial services across the region.
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Key Areas: Banking, insurance, asset management, and fintech.
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Notable Institutions: Ping An Insurance, China Construction Bank, and ICBC.
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Opportunities: As a growing financial center, Guangzhou offers opportunities for foreign banks, insurance companies, and fintech startups. The city’s integration into the Greater Bay Area enhances its potential as a financial services hub.
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Healthcare and Biotechnology
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Guangzhou’s healthcare and biotechnology sectors are expanding rapidly, driven by government support and a growing demand for medical services. The city is investing heavily in medical research, pharmaceutical production, and healthcare infrastructure.
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Key Areas: Pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, medical devices, and healthcare services.
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Notable Companies: Guangzhou Pharmaceutical Holdings Limited, and Sino Biological.
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Opportunities: Guangzhou’s growing healthcare and biotech sectors present opportunities for foreign companies involved in pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and biotech research. Joint ventures, R&D partnerships, and clinical trials are potential areas for engagement.
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Tourism and Hospitality
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Guangzhou’s cultural heritage, shopping, and culinary experiences make it a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists. The city’s tourism and hospitality sectors have grown significantly, supported by its status as a regional business center.
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Key Areas: Hotels, restaurants, cultural tourism, and event management.
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Notable Attractions: Canton Tower, Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, and Shamian Island.
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Opportunities: The growth of Guangzhou’s tourism sector offers opportunities for foreign hotel chains, restaurant franchises, and cultural service providers. The city’s position as a business and cultural center drives demand for high-quality hospitality services.​​
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Main companies
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China Southern Airlines
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Industry: Aviation
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China Southern Airlines is one of China’s largest airlines and operates its headquarters in Guangzhou. It is a member of the SkyTeam airline alliance and provides extensive domestic and international flight services. The airline’s hub in Guangzhou is a major gateway for travel between China and other global destinations.
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Headquarters: Baiyun District, Guangzhou
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GAC Group (Guangzhou Automobile Group Co., Ltd.)
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Industry: Automotive
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GAC Group is a leading state-owned automotive manufacturer with a strong presence in Guangzhou. The company produces a wide range of vehicles, including passenger cars, trucks, and buses. GAC operates joint ventures with international automotive brands such as Toyota, Honda, and FCA (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles).
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Headquarters: Huangpu District, Guangzhou
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Guangzhou Pharmaceutical Holdings Limited
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Industry: Pharmaceuticals
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Guangzhou Pharmaceutical Holdings Limited is a major pharmaceutical company specializing in the production and distribution of traditional Chinese medicine and other healthcare products. The company is one of the largest in China’s pharmaceutical industry, with a significant presence in both domestic and international markets.
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Headquarters: No. 45, Shamian North Street, Liwan District, Guangzhou
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Guangzhou R&F Properties Co., Ltd.
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Industry: Real Estate, Construction
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Guangzhou R&F Properties is a prominent real estate development company specializing in residential, commercial, and mixed-use properties. The company is known for its large-scale development projects across China and has a strong presence in the real estate market in Guangzhou.
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Headquarters: Tianhe District, Guangzhou
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Guangzhou Baiyunshan Pharmaceutical Holdings Co., Ltd.
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Industry: Pharmaceuticals
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Baiyunshan Pharmaceutical Holdings is a major pharmaceutical and healthcare company in Guangzhou. The company focuses on the research, development, and production of pharmaceutical products, including traditional Chinese medicine and modern pharmaceuticals.
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Headquarters: No. 45 Shamian North Street, Liwan District, Guangzhou
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Guangzhou Yuexiu Holdings Limited
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Industry: Real Estate, Investment
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Yuexiu Holdings is a key player in Guangzhou’s real estate market, involved in property development, management, and investment. The company’s portfolio includes residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments throughout Guangzhou and other major Chinese cities.
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Headquarters: No.5, Zhujiang West Road, Tianhe, Guangzhou
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Industrial Parks
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Guangzhou Economic and Technological Development Zone (GETDZ)
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Established in 1984, GETDZ is one of China’s earliest national-level economic and technological development zones. It has evolved into a comprehensive industrial base focusing on high-tech industries, advanced manufacturing, and international trade. Location: Huangpu District, Eastern Guangzhou.
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Characteristics:
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High-Tech and Advanced Manufacturing: GETDZ specializes in electronics, automotive, chemicals, and biotechnology.
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Strong R&D Environment: The zone hosts numerous research institutions, innovation centers, and partnerships with local universities.
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Comprehensive Infrastructure: Modern facilities for production, logistics, and business services, including transportation and utilities.
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Benefits for Foreign Companies:
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Incentives and Policy Support: Tax reductions, grants, and subsidies for high-tech projects, as well as streamlined business registration processes.
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Strategic Location: Proximity to Guangzhou Port, highways, and the city’s central business district enhances logistics and business operations.
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Access to Skilled Labor: Availability of highly trained professionals, particularly in engineering, IT, and biotechnology.
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Guangzhou Nansha Economic and Technological Development Zone
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The Nansha Economic and Technological Development Zone, part of the broader Nansha Free Trade Zone, is a key area for high-tech industries, automotive manufacturing, and port logistics. It serves as a gateway for international trade and investment in the Greater Bay Area. Location: Nansha District, Southern Guangzhou.
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Characteristics:
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Port-Centric Industry: Focus on industries that benefit from proximity to Nansha Port, including logistics, automotive, and heavy manufacturing.
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High-Tech Development: Emphasis on new energy, marine engineering, and IT industries, with significant R&D capabilities.
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Green and Smart Industry: The zone promotes sustainable and smart manufacturing practices, aligned with global environmental standards.
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Benefits for Foreign Companies:
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Free Trade Zone Advantages: Tax exemptions, streamlined customs procedures, and facilitation of cross-border trade.
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Logistics Efficiency: Direct access to one of China’s busiest deep-water ports, enhancing import-export capabilities.
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Comprehensive Support Services: Availability of financial, legal, and trade services designed to support foreign enterprises.
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Guangzhou High-Tech Industrial Development Zone (Guangzhou Science City)
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Established in 1991, Guangzhou High-Tech Industrial Development Zone, also known as Guangzhou Science City, is a leading innovation and technology hub in Southern China. It focuses on sectors such as information technology, biotechnology, new materials, and environmental protection. Location: Huangpu District, Eastern Guangzhou.
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Characteristics:
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Innovation-Driven: The zone emphasizes R&D, housing numerous research centers, incubators, and innovation platforms.
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Industry-Academia Collaboration: Strong partnerships with local and international universities and research institutions.
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High-Tech Clusters: The zone is home to clusters in IT, AI, biotechnology, and environmental technologies.
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Benefits for Foreign Companies:
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R&D Incentives: Government grants, tax incentives, and subsidies for innovative projects and high-tech research.
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Talent Access: Availability of a highly educated workforce, supported by local universities and research institutions.
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Global Collaboration: Opportunities for collaboration with leading tech firms and access to global innovation networks.
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Guangzhou Airport Economic Zone (GAEZ)
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The Guangzhou Airport Economic Zone is centered around Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport and focuses on industries such as aviation, logistics, electronics, and e-commerce. It serves as a critical hub for air cargo and international trade. Location: Baiyun District, Northern Guangzhou.
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Characteristics:
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Aviation and Logistics Focus: The zone specializes in aviation-related industries, including aircraft maintenance, parts manufacturing, and logistics.
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E-Commerce Hub: Significant presence of e-commerce and logistics companies, leveraging proximity to the airport.
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Modern Infrastructure: State-of-the-art facilities for air cargo, warehousing, and distribution, integrated with the airport’s operations.
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Benefits for Foreign Companies:
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Logistics Advantage: Proximity to Guangzhou’s international airport offers fast and efficient air cargo services, ideal for export-oriented businesses.
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Tax and Policy Incentives: Benefits for companies involved in aviation, logistics, and high-tech sectors, including reduced corporate taxes and financial support.
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E-Commerce Growth: Ideal for companies looking to tap into China’s booming e-commerce market, with access to fast distribution channels.
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Guangzhou Free Trade Zone (FTZ)
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The Guangzhou Free Trade Zone, part of the broader Guangdong Pilot Free Trade Zone, is designed to enhance international trade, financial services, and innovation. It serves as a platform for foreign investment and trade, particularly in high-tech and service industries. Location: Nansha District, Southern Guangzhou.
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Characteristics:
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International Trade Focus: The FTZ is geared towards companies involved in cross-border trade, logistics, and financial services.
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Financial Innovation: Encourages financial services innovation, including cross-border RMB settlement and offshore finance.
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High-Tech Industry Support: Prioritizes high-tech industries, including new energy, IT, and biotechnology.
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Benefits for Foreign Companies:
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Free Trade Incentives: Duty-free import/export, relaxed foreign investment rules, and streamlined regulatory procedures.
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Financial Services: Access to innovative financial services, including cross-border financing and trade facilitation.
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Global Market Access: Ideal location for companies aiming to expand into Asia-Pacific markets, leveraging Guangzhou’s trade networks.
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Guangzhou Baiyun Industrial Cluster
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The Guangzhou Baiyun Industrial Cluster is a comprehensive industrial zone focusing on traditional manufacturing, electronics, textiles, and chemicals. It is one of the oldest industrial zones in Guangzhou, continually upgrading to accommodate modern industries. Location: Baiyun District, Northern Guangzhou.
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Characteristics:
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Diverse Industry Base: The cluster houses a variety of industries, including electronics, textiles, chemicals, and consumer goods manufacturing.
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Upgrading and Transformation: Ongoing modernization efforts to incorporate more high-tech and environmentally friendly industries.
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Strategic Location: Close to major transportation routes, providing easy access to the rest of Guangzhou and nearby regions.
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Benefits for Foreign Companies:
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Established Infrastructure: Well-developed industrial infrastructure with access to suppliers, logistics, and skilled labor.
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Cost-Effective: Competitive land and operating costs, especially for traditional manufacturing industries.
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Support for Upgrading: Opportunities to participate in the zone’s transformation towards more advanced and sustainable industries.
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Legal services
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Yingke Law Firm Guangzhou Office
Address: 7-9/F Kaihua International Center, 5 Xiancun Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou - Website: www.yingkelawyer.com
Deacons Guangzhou Office
Address: Room 1818, 18/F South Tower, Guangzhou World Trade Center, 371-375 Huanshi Road East, Guangzhou - Website: www.deacons.com.hk
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GFE Law Office
Address: Units 3409-3412 Guangzhou CTF Finance Center, No 6 Zhujiang Road East, Guangzhou - Website: www.gfelaw.com
Guangdong Guang Zhi Zhou Law Office
Address: Room 1503 Dong Bao Mansion, Dong Feng Road East, Guangzhou - Website: www.guangzhizhoulaw.com
Guangdong Hong An Xin Law Firm
Address: 2/F No. 83 Cangbian Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou - Website: www.HonganLaw.com
Guangzhou King Pound Law Firm
Address: 45/F, East Tower of Top Plaza, No.222 Xingmin Road, Tianhe District Guangzhou - Website: http://www.kingpound.com
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H.J.M. International Law Offices
Address: 2501, Huimei Building, Jinsui Road #3, Zhujiang New Town, Guangzhou - Website: https://www.hjmasialaw.com
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Wang Jing & Co. Law Firm
Address: 11/ F, Block D, G. T. Land Plaza, 8 Zhujiang Road West, Zhujiang New Town, Guangzhou - Website: www.wjnco.com
Song Law Firm
Address: Unit 10, 51F, Chow Tai Fook Finance Centre, No.6 Zhujiang Dong Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou - Website: www.songchambers.com
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Tax, audit and accounting services
GP Certified Public Accountants
Address: 10/F,Guangdong Holdings Tower, 555 DongFeng Road East, Guangzhou - Website: www.gpcpa.cn
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Guangzhou Cheng An Xin Certified Public Accountants Co., Ltd.
Address: 5/F, Xiaorixuan, Xinghui Garden, No.39 Huaming Rd., Zhujiang New City, Tianhe Dist., Guangzhou - Website: www.caxcpa.com
CW Certified Public Accountants
Address: Room 026-027, 11/F, International Finance Centre, No. 5, Zhujiang West Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou - Website: www.cwhkcpa.com
Pengsheng Certified Public Accountants
Address: 10th Floor, Building B, Victoria Plaza, No. 103 Tiyuxi Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou - Website: http://ytpscta.com
PKF ZXC
Address: Room 707-708, 1132 West Zhongshan Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou - Website: www.pkf.com
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Chambers of commerce
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European Union Chamber of Commerce in China
Address: Unit 2817, 28/F, Tower A, China Shine Plaza, No.9 Linhe Xi Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou - Website: www.europeanchamber.com.cn
Swiss Chinese Chamber of Commerce in China
Address: 27th Floor, Kingold Century, No. 62, Jinsui Road, Zhujiang New Town, Tianhe District, Guangzhou - Website: www.swisscham.org
China-Italy Chamber of Commerce
Address: Room 1201-1202, Garden Hotel, No.368 Huanshi Dong Road, Garden Tower, Guangzhou, 510064 - Website: www.cameraitacina.com
Singapore Chamber of Commerce and Industry in China (SingCham)
Website: www.singcham.com.cn
Address: No. 2 Ascendas Street 1, Ascendas OneHub, Block B 2F Room 211, China-Singapore Guangzhou Knowledge City, Guangzhou
CCI France Chine
Website: www.ccifc.org
Address: Room 802, Leatop Plaza, 32 Zhujiang East, Road, Zhujiang New Town, Tianhe District,, Guangzhou
Australia Chamber of Commerce
Website: www.austcham.org
Address: Room 1753, Kingold Century, 62 Jinsui Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou
German Industry & Commerce
Website: china.ahk.de
Address: 1903 Leatop Plaza, 32 Zhu Jiang East Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou
The Spanish Chamber of Commerce in China
Website: spanishchamber-ch.com
Address: Greenland International Airport Center No. 5, Building 6, 3rd Floor, Huadu District, Guangzhou
The British Chamber of Commerce in China
Website: britchamgd.com
Address: Unit 2201B, International Finance Centre, No. 5 Zhujiang Xi Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou
The American Chamber of Commerce in South China
Website: amcham-southchina.org
Address: Suite 2208, Guangdong International Building, No. 339, Huanshi East Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou
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