Standing Committee of the National People's Congress

Rule Changes

Adopted the law at its 25th session

China had no national law covering what its citizens, companies and ships do in Antarctica. On November 6, 2026, its legislature passed one. The Antarctic Activities and Environmental Protection Law takes effect January 1, 2027, and requires permits for expeditions, tourism and shipping.

Updated 4 days ago

Money Moves

Authorized the local government debt quota

China's main budget account took in 17.23 trillion yuan in the first nine months of 2026, up 5.1% from a year earlier and slower than the 5.7% pace through August. September was the first month this year that receipts fell, down 0.12%, the Finance Ministry said on October 23.

Updated Oct 24

Rule Changes

As of July 2026: Passed the law on April 30, 2025

China's private firms account for about 60% of its economic output and most of its urban jobs. In April 2025, they got their first dedicated legal protection. The Private Economy Promotion Law, passed by the National People's Congress Standing Committee, took effect May 20, 2025.

Updated Jul 29

Rule Changes

As of May 2026: Adopted the revised arbitration law after three rounds of review

China's arbitration law has operated essentially unchanged since 1995, when the country's commercial arbitration system was still government-controlled. On March 1, 2026, a revised version took effect, introducing a codified 'seat of arbitration,' permission for foreign bodies like the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) to operate in free trade zones, and online proceedings.

Updated May 30