Negative list
Prohibited and restricted sectors for foreign investors.
China Law Key Words · Practice parent
FDI and National Security Review
Author China Legal Portal Editorial · Editorial policy · AI content policy · Disclaimer · Not legal advice — confirm current rules with counsel and authorities
Keyword hub for foreign investment access and national security review in China—negative list, NSR, sensitive sectors, and related compliance.
Last reviewed 21 August 2026
The rule in 60 seconds
Start with the rule, then map it to your situation
This briefing separates the core issue from the next research and counsel steps.
Security review
When acquisitions and investments face national security screening.
Key distinction: This is general orientation. Company type, documents, location and timing can change the analysis.
Which situation are you in?
Start with the event, then test the rule
Scenario 01
Negative list
Prohibited and restricted sectors for foreign investors.
Next review: Open the related guides and confirm how this issue presents in your documents.
Scenario 02
Security review
When acquisitions and investments face national security screening.
Next review: Open the related guides and confirm how this issue presents in your documents.
Scenario 03
Anti-espionage overlay
How broader security laws affect diligence and market intelligence.
Next review: Open the related guides and confirm how this issue presents in your documents.
Scenario 04
Deal design
WFOE, JV, and control terms under access constraints.
Next review: Open the related guides and confirm how this issue presents in your documents.
Key steps
A simple sequence for this topic
01
Screen the sector
Negative list and encouraged catalogue.
02
Flag NSR risk
Sensitive tech, infrastructure, data, defence-adjacent.
03
Plan diligence hygiene
Anti-espionage and data handling protocols.
04
Align structure
JV vs WFOE vs licensed vehicles.
Review checklist
What to check before you choose the next step
Screen the sector
Negative list and encouraged catalogue.
Flag NSR risk
Sensitive tech, infrastructure, data, defence-adjacent.
Plan diligence hygiene
Anti-espionage and data handling protocols.
Align structure
JV vs WFOE vs licensed vehicles.
Sequence filings
Access, NSR, merger control if applicable.
Why this matters
The issue usually reaches beyond a single filing
Negative list
Prohibited and restricted sectors for foreign investors.
Security review
When acquisitions and investments face national security screening.
Anti-espionage overlay
How broader security laws affect diligence and market intelligence.
Deal design
WFOE, JV, and control terms under access constraints.
Recommended reading path
Move from the rule to the right depth of guidance
Common situations
Recognise the issue before you choose the response
Negative list
Prohibited and restricted sectors for foreign investors.
Security review
When acquisitions and investments face national security screening.
Anti-espionage overlay
How broader security laws affect diligence and market intelligence.
Frequently asked questions
Questions readers commonly need answered next
Does every FDI deal need NSR?
No—risk depends on sector, target, and control. Screen early.
Related export controls?
See the export-control hub for dual-use and sanctions themes.
Guides & articles
Practical writing from counsel and the portal editorial team on this topic
When the next step needs advice
Turn the legal issue into an actionable company plan.
Use the directory to find relevant counsel or ask a focused question through China Legal Portal.