China's free trade zone an experiment for its future

By Marc Castro

Nov 11, 2013 08:25 PM EST

Many Chinese entrepreneurs are in a rush to find the next great business opportunity in the country. Many though need to build a name first and they are willing to pay for a corporate name.

The process of registry of a financial business has become central to success especially in the newly opened Shanghai free trade zone. The government had inaugurated the 'testing ground for new policies' last September, saying it is one of the reform hubs for the 21st century. This has resulted in hundreds of applicants patiently making their way into the office at the free trade zone an hour's drive just outside Shanghai. 

Many analysts and economists view the free trade zone as an experiment into the future of China's economy. Here, there currencies are allowed to be traded, importations are done tax free and many other benefits for investors both foreign and local alike. The effect still is best unclear as while there is a zone, there are very few governing regulations.

This is clearly elucidated in the name registration process. High expectations met with lack of transparency as to the implementation of regulations are often a volatile mix. This is one of the few reforms undertaken by the new Chinese leadership and its acceptance has been met with mixed reactions. One of the major highlights of the disapproval was the clear absence of Premier Li Keqiang during the opening ceremonies over the zone when he was one of the major proponents for its establishment.

Many of China's economists and analysts are taking a keen and watchful eye if the Communist Party would be explicitly endorsing the free trade zone during its Third Plenum being held in Beijing. The goal of the plenum would be to identify and plan the economic future of China in the coming decade.

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