China due diligence: verify your Chinese counterparty before you pay
Before you wire a deposit, sign a contract or buy a company in China, verify that your counterparty exists, can sign and carries no hidden problems.
UB China runs that check in official Chinese registries and, when needed, on site, with lawyers in Shanghai.
Why verify your Chinese counterparty
- Companies change: a supplier you have worked with for years can change owners, legal representative or business scope without notice.
- Platform badges: Alibaba or other platform badges are a commercial reference; they do not confirm valid licences or the real legal structure.
- Fake documents: forged licences, certificates and bank accounts in third-party names are the most common fraud.
- Company seals: in China a contract binds through the company’s official seal, not just a signature.
Three levels of verification with China Legal Check
- BasicLegal existence and operating status, registration data, shareholders and key personnel, tax history and legal proceedings, annual inspection.
- CompleteAll of the above, plus history of registry changes, customs registration, import and export compliance, intellectual property, special licences and administrative penalties.
- AdvancedAll of the above, plus a site visit to offices and facilities, interviews, review of the manufacturing process and assessment of credit, reputation and commercial viability.
Basic and Complete reports have a 24-hour urgent option. See levels and fees at China Legal Check.
Due diligence for acquisitions and investments
In an acquisition or joint venture the review goes beyond the financials: environmental liabilities, IP conflicts, antitrust risks, national security review and, if the seller is state-owned, SASAC approval. That is what our guide Doing Business in China (2026) recommends.
FAQ
How long does it take?
Basic and Complete reports have a 24-hour urgent option; the Advanced report depends on the site visit.
I have worked with my supplier for years. Do I still need it?
Yes. Many serious cases appear after years without problems.
Is it confidential?
Yes. Everything is handled under professional secrecy.
What do I receive?
A legal report signed in China, with the red flags and our recommendation.
Doing business with China? Let us talk.