Published by ChinaMNC · Fuchuanyaozu
What the 2026 BRICS Tax Meeting Means for Foreign Founders in China
China's tax chief attended the 2026 BRICS tax commissioners meeting in New Delhi. Here's what foreign founders operating in China should note about tax cooperation, cross-border risks, and upcoming events.
China at the 2026 BRICS Tax Commissioners Meeting
From September 23 to 24, 2026, a delegation led by Hu Jinglin, Commissioner of China's State Taxation Administration (STA), attended the BRICS Tax Commissioners Meeting in New Delhi, India. The meeting was hosted by Indian tax authorities and brought together tax commissioners and representatives from 10 BRICS countries, including India, China, Brazil, Russia, and South Africa. Discussions centered on the theme “Building a Resilient, Innovative, Cooperative, and Sustainable BRICS.”
Key Points from the Meeting
Anniversary of BRICS Cooperation
Hu noted that 2026 marks the 20th anniversary of BRICS cooperation and the 15th year of the BRICS tax cooperation mechanism. This milestone underscores the growing importance of tax collaboration among member countries.
China's Position on Tax Cooperation
In response to major adjustments in international tax rules and new demands from economic and social development, Hu expressed China's willingness to work with other members. He emphasized the BRICS spirit of openness, inclusiveness, and win-win cooperation, and outlined four priorities:
- Resilience: Strengthen the foundations of tax administration.
- Innovation: Drive digital transformation.
- Cooperation: Build broad consensus.
- Sustainability: Plan for long-term development.
These efforts aim to expand and deepen BRICS tax cooperation and contribute to improving the global tax governance system.
What This Means for Foreign Founders in China
While the meeting itself is a high-level policy event, its outcomes and discussions can have practical implications for foreign founders registering or operating a company in China. Here are key takeaways:
1. Cross-Border Tax Risks
During the visit to India, the Chinese delegation held a seminar with Chinese-funded enterprises operating in India. They introduced measures by Chinese tax authorities to support companies “going global,” answered tax questions, and gathered feedback to help enterprises better prevent cross-border tax risks and achieve high-quality development. This reflects China's broader approach to supporting businesses with international operations, which can also benefit foreign founders with cross-border activities. Understanding these measures can help you anticipate how Chinese tax authorities may assist in resolving cross-border tax issues.
2. Digital Transformation in Tax Administration
China's emphasis on “innovation” to drive digital transformation suggests continued modernization of tax services and compliance processes. For foreign founders, this could mean more digital tools for tax filing and greater efficiency in dealing with tax authorities. Staying informed about digital initiatives can help streamline your company's tax compliance.
3. International Tax Rule Adjustments
The meeting highlighted major adjustments in international tax rules. As global tax frameworks evolve, foreign founders should remain aware of changes that may affect their operations in China. The BRICS platform serves as a venue for coordinating positions, but companies should monitor official announcements from Chinese tax authorities for specific implementation details.
4. Upcoming BRICS Tax Meeting in China
In 2027, China will host the BRICS Tax Commissioners Meeting. This presents an opportunity for foreign founders to observe China's role in shaping international tax cooperation. While not directly related to company registration, such events can signal policy directions and areas of focus for China's tax administration.
Practical Steps for Foreign Founders
- Stay informed: Follow announcements from China's State Taxation Administration for updates on tax policies and international cooperation.
- Engage with local tax authorities: If you have cross-border operations, seek guidance from local tax offices on available support measures.
- Leverage digital services: Utilize online platforms for tax registration and filing to ensure compliance.
- Monitor international developments: Keep abreast of BRICS tax cooperation outcomes that may influence global tax rules.
Conclusion
The 2026 BRICS Tax Commissioners Meeting reaffirmed China's commitment to international tax cooperation and highlighted ongoing efforts to support businesses in navigating cross-border tax challenges. For foreign founders in China, understanding these developments can aid in planning and risk management.
This summary is based on information published by the relevant Chinese government website and is general information, not legal or tax advice.
For personalized assistance with registering and operating a company in China, foreign founders can contact ChinaMNC on WhatsApp / WeChat at +86 153 1898 8535.