Registered capital is the public number — subscribed and paid-in tell you whether anyone has actually put money in.
Registered capital (注册资本) is the figure shown on the business licence and in the articles. Under the subscribed-capital model it is a promise recorded at SAMR, not proof the bank account holds that cash. Creditors, tenders and some licences still look at it. The five-year contribution clock now gives the promise teeth. Paid-in capital and subscribed capital are siblings. Do not treat a huge registered figure as a credit rating, or a tiny one as ‘safe’ after the reform.
4 questions before you choose the route.
This page identifies the right question and evidence. It does not determine the legal outcome on a reader’s facts.
What number is on the licence?
The public figure.
LicenceHow much is subscribed vs paid?
Open siblings.
SplitIs a licence or tender looking at it?
Some sectors still care.
UseFive-year clock?
Open the live flagship.
ClockWorking rule: Map the regulated role before marketing or launch in China.
The signal ledger.
These facts move the question beyond a label and into a product, money-flow and control analysis.
Bring a compact evidence docket—not a pitch deck.
Give a compliance team or counsel the operating facts that reveal the perimeter.
Questions people ask before they build.
Short answers for orientation. The right result can change with the service model and current rules.
Is there a statutory minimum?
General limited companies no longer have a useful national minimum. Licensed sectors still do. Check the sector.
Does increasing registered capital need a new licence?
It is a SAMR change filing. See capital-increase later.
Primary authorities
Reviewed sources support orientation, not a fact-specific assessment.