Masterclass
Essential Company Verification in China
Develop practical skills to conduct essential company verification, identify inconsistencies and reduce the risks of fraud, misrepresentation and unreliable business partners.
Masterclass
2 weeks
approx. 4 hours/ week
100% online
Open Enrollment
EUR 149
Course Overview
This masterclass provides a practical introduction to company verification in Mainland China, with a particular focus on business licenses and company seals as essential elements of corporate due diligence. Participants will learn how to understand and assess the key information contained in a Chinese business license, verify company and registration details through the Administration for Market Regulation (AMR) and the National Enterprise Credit Information Publicity System (NECIPS), and use a structured verification checklist to identify inconsistencies and potential red flags.
The masterclass also examines common business license scams and fraudulent practices, including methods used to misrepresent or impersonate legitimate companies. Through practical examples and case-based learning, participants will develop the knowledge and tools required to verify the legitimacy of potential business partners, identify potential risks and make more informed decisions when establishing or maintaining business relationships with companies in China.
Course Structure
Four Focused Units.
Unit 1: Introduction
The first unit provides an orientation to the course and the online learning environment. The unit does not carry credits. You are encouraged to go through the materials at their own pace to get accustomed to the online medium.
Unit 2: Understanding the Characteristics of the Business License
Learn about the Chinese business license and its role in company verification and third-party due diligence. Companies incorporated in Mainland China, whether domestic or foreign-invested, receive a business license upon completion of the incorporation process and maintain registered company information with the relevant Administration for Market Regulation (AMR).
The business license is an important starting point when assessing a potential customer, supplier or business partner. You will learn how to identify and interpret the key information contained in a business license and understand the relationship between the license, registered company information and company seals. The unit provides the knowledge required to assess whether a business license appears authentic and whether the information presented is consistent with the company’s registered status.
Unit 3: Verification of the Business License
Learn how to verify the information contained in a business license provided by a potential business partner. The unit introduces methods for cross-checking the information against records maintained by the relevant Administration for Market Regulation (AMR) and, where available, through the National Enterprise Credit Information Publicity System (NECIPS).
You will work with a business license verification checklist covering key information and verification points. The checklist provides a structured approach to identifying inconsistencies, missing information and other potential red flags that may require further investigation or clarification.
Unit 4: Common Business License Scams
Learn about common forms of fraud and misrepresentation involving Chinese business licenses. While the vast majority of companies operating in China are legitimately established and conduct their business in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, fraudulent or misleading representations can occur.
This unit examines common ways in which business license information may be altered, misrepresented or used to create a misleading impression of a company’s identity, status or business capabilities. Through practical examples and case studies, you will learn how to identify impostors, inconsistencies and other red flags, understand the potential risks they create, and apply practical measures to protect your organization when dealing with China-based companies.
Who Is This Course For?
The masterclass is designed for professionals who need to verify the identity and legitimacy of China-based companies before entering into business relationships or transactions, including:
- Business owners and senior executives assessing potential Chinese business partners.
- China country managers and business development professionals evaluating customers, suppliers and cooperation partners.
- Procurement and supply chain professionals conducting supplier verification and onboarding.
- Sales and commercial teams assessing new customers, distributors and business partners.
- Legal and compliance professionals involved in third-party due diligence and risk management.
- Risk management and internal control professionals responsible for identifying and mitigating third-party risks.
- Professionals responsible for customer or supplier onboarding who need a structured approach to company verification.
Practical Tools Included
The Essential Company Verification in China masterclass includes practical tools designed to help participants verify China-based companies and identify potential risks:
- Company Verification Checklist: A structured framework for verifying the identity and registration status of a Chinese company.
- Business License Verification Checklist: Key points for reviewing and assessing the authenticity of a business license.
- Business License Information Guide: Reference guide explaining the key information and fields contained in a Chinese business license.
- Business License Scam Reference Guide: Overview of common fraudulent practices and warning signs.
- Company Verification Assessment Template: A practical format for documenting verification findings, discrepancies and follow-up actions.
Earn Your Credential
Upon successful completion of the masterclass and the required assessments, you will earn a digital certificate of completion from the Institute of China Studies.
Your certificate provides a formal record of your completion of the program and can be retained as part of your professional learning portfolio.
Official Recognition
Issued by the Institute for China Studies.
Digital Format
Easy to download, share and add to your profile.

Your Course Professor
Dr. Richard van Ostende, DBA
Richard van Ostende is founder of the Institute for China Studies. He combines extensive professional experience and practical expertise in corporate finance, foreign investment and business strategy.
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