Interesting thanks.
Here is a correct link:
http://www.inc.com/guides/2010/07/how-to-start-a-business-in-china.html
That shows a Wikipedia entry, which also links to this:
http://www.shanghai-attorney.com/WFOE
Apparently there is a relatively new “WFOE”, which seems to be an independent ownership arrangement of some sort.
Benefits, it does not rely on a local partner. The company is restricted in what is may do, and the government can accept or deny a particular company. I did not see a requirement that a Chinese partner be involved. If not, that is a big improvement.
On the other hand, it seems these are only allowed in some fields. But there apparently is a way to repatriate profits. So that is also a big thing.
I appreciate your post. Will need to read up on this a bit.
Me too. China has a habit of changing procedures and keeping secrets. All countries do to some extent I guess but my experience is that China's still got a long way to go.