COMPANIES headquartered in Qianhai are eligible for a subsidy of 2 million yuan (US$280,800) if they are newly listed among the top 500 Chinese enterprises, according to a recently released plan by the Qianhai Authority aimed at promoting the high-quality development of headquarters firms. For companies that make it into the top 500 global enterprises, the subsidy increases to 10 million yuan. In addition, headquarters enterprises that make a significant contribution to the high-quality development of Qianhai’s economy will receive a bonus equal to 1% of the comprehensive economic growth they achieved in the Qianhai cooperation zone during the previous year, with a maximum bonus of 30 million yuan per year per enterprise. The plan also introduces preferential tax policies for qualified talent and firms in Qianhai. For high-end overseas talent and those in short supply working in headquarters enterprises, any individual income tax burden exceeding 15% will be subsidized in accordance with regulations, and this subsidy will be exempt from individual income tax. Hong Kong residents employed in headquarters enterprises will also benefit, as the portion of their individual income tax burden that exceeds the Hong Kong tax rate will be exempted according to the law. Moreover, qualified headquarters enterprises will enjoy a reduced corporate income tax rate of 15%, in line with regulations. The plan specifically supports key industries such as finance, exhibitions, trade and logistics, technology services, professional services, new international trade methods, and modern maritime activities. It aims to attract headquarters firms in sectors like information services, legal services, digital and fashion, cultural tourism, and advanced manufacturing, thereby fostering competitive clusters of headquarters firms. (Wang Jingli) |