How Regulated United Europe Cooperates with Leading Chinese Law Firms

Building Legal Bridges Between China and Europe

Over the past two decades, the relationship between China and the European Union has entered a new era, driven not only by trade, but also by strategic investment, innovation and legal collaboration. Chinese enterprises are no longer just exporters of goods; they are now global investors, acquiring assets, setting up subsidiaries and R&D centres, and establishing production facilities across Europe.

As this shift continues, the role of professional legal coordination between Chinese and European partners has become indispensable. The complexity of EU regulatory systems, which span 27 member states, multiple legal traditions and intricate compliance rules, requires specialised, localised expertise. Even the most established ‘Red Circle’ Chinese law firms, such as Fangda Partners, Han Kun, JunHe and Zhong Lun, recognise the need for trusted EU-based partners who can execute their clients’ objectives within European legal frameworks.

This is where Regulated United Europe (RUE) comes in. Based in the heart of the European Union, RUE serves as a bridge between China’s top legal professionals and the European business environment. We provide a single access point for Chinese law firms whose clients wish to operate, invest or relocate within the EU.

RUE’s mission is clear:

• We transform the strategic advice of Chinese law firms into fully compliant EU implementation, enabling their clients to establish and operate in Europe seamlessly while ensuring that every cross-border project adheres to both Chinese outbound investment regulations and European legal requirements.
• Our cooperation goes far beyond document exchange – it is about synchronising two legal cultures. Chinese clients value efficiency, precision and predictability, and RUE delivers precisely that within the EU context. We manage everything from company incorporation and VAT registration to product certification and residence permits.
• As a result, our partnerships with leading Chinese law firms are strategic alliances that enhance value on both sides, not just transactional relationships. Together, we help Chinese enterprises enter and thrive in Europe, safe in the knowledge that their legal foundation is solid and compliant and built for long-term success.

Partnership Concept: Local Expertise + EU Implementation

At the core of our cooperation model lies a simple yet powerful principle: each party focuses on its area of expertise. Chinese law firms bring a deep understanding of domestic clients, local regulations and outbound investment requirements, while Regulated United Europe (RUE) provides expertise, infrastructure and legal execution capacity across the European Union.

This synergy enables clients to swiftly and safely transition from strategy to action while ensuring full compliance with both jurisdictions.

Complementary strengths

• Chinese law firms: Chinese legal partners are closely aligned with clients’ commercial goals. They handle corporate structuring, approvals from the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM), SAFE filings and due diligence within China. They have an in-depth understanding of the client’s ownership structure, source of funds, and the domestic side of risk management.
• RUE (European partner): Once the decision to enter Europe has been made, RUE takes over on-the-ground execution, including incorporation, licensing, compliance, tax, banking and regulatory matters across any EU jurisdiction. Our lawyers and corporate advisors ensure that every step, from establishing an entity to obtaining permits and tax registrations, complies with national and EU-level legislation.

Together, this two-tier system provides a seamless bridge between Chinese legal strategy and European legal reality.

Unified Project Flow

A typical cooperation project unfolds as follows:

1. Initial consultation and strategy alignment: The Chinese law firm and RUE jointly assess the client’s objectives, such as establishing a manufacturing subsidiary in Poland, a fintech platform in Lithuania or a trading company in Germany.
2. Legal structuring: The Chinese firm advises on the legal and financial framework under PRC law for outbound projects, while RUE structures the EU entity, taking into account tax, compliance and regulatory aspects.
3. Implementation Phase: RUE handles local filings, company formation, director registration, licensing, VAT/EORI and product certification. The referring law firm is kept fully informed throughout the process.
4. Ongoing compliance and reporting: Once the client’s European operations have begun, RUE provides ongoing support in the areas of accounting, auditing, legal maintenance and reporting, ensuring that the business remains compliant and risk-free.

Non-Competitive, Cooperative Model

RUE’s approach is entirely non-competitive: we do not provide Chinese legal advice or approach clients directly in China. Instead, we work under the umbrella of our partner law firms, allowing them to retain ownership of clients and take the lead in communication.

This cooperative structure offers clear benefits:

• It enables Chinese law firms to expand their services into Europe without establishing their own EU offices.
• It guarantees their clients a trusted and competent implementation partner within the EU.
• It facilitates long-term, recurring collaboration – as Chinese clients expand into multiple countries, new projects evolve naturally under the same partnership.

The result: One client, two jurisdictions, one solution.

The partnership between Chinese law firms and RUE eliminates the common cross-border gap between strategy and execution. Clients benefit from an integrated solution where the Chinese and European legal systems are aligned towards one outcome: a successful, compliant and sustainable presence in Europe.

The services that RUE provides to clients of Chinese law firms

Regulated United Europe (RUE) is a full-service European legal and corporate advisory platform designed to assist international clients entering or expanding within the European Union. For Chinese law firms, this means that RUE becomes the implementation partner, taking care of all the practical, legal and regulatory steps required in the EU, while the Chinese firm continues to act as strategic counsel to the client. Our services cover every stage of the business lifecycle, from market entry and incorporation to licensing, compliance and ongoing management. Each service can be delivered as a standalone engagement or as part of an integrated expansion package, which is coordinated directly with the Chinese law firm.

Company establishment in the European Union

Setting up a legal entity in Europe is the foundation for any cross-border business activity. RUE can assist with:

• Company registration in all 27 EU countries, including preparation of the articles of association, shareholder resolutions and notarisation.
• Selection of the optimal jurisdiction based on taxation, licensing and business objectives – for example, Ireland or the Netherlands for holding structures and Lithuania, Estonia or Poland for trade and logistics operations.
• We also provide local directors and registered addresses to ensure full compliance with local corporate governance rules.
• We also support the opening of bank accounts, including fintech and digital banking options where traditional banks may be restrictive for non-residents.

By coordinating closely with the referring Chinese law firm, RUE ensures that company ownership and capital flow remain fully compliant with PRC outbound investment regulations.

Licensing and regulatory compliance

Many Chinese enterprises entering the EU require formal authorisation to operate. RUE assists clients in navigating complex licensing regimes, including:

• Financial and fintech licensing (e.g. EMI, PSP, crypto service providers and crowdfunding licences);
• Trade, import/export and logistics permits;
• Industrial manufacturing and environmental certifications, including ISO and EU sustainability regulations; and
• Sector-specific approvals (e.g. pharmaceuticals, energy, education, healthcare and telecoms).

We prepare all the necessary documentation, liaise with the relevant regulatory bodies and provide post-licensing compliance support. This enables Chinese law firms to assure their clients that all their European operations are fully authorised.

We also assist with taxation, VAT and EORI registration.

Tax efficiency is essential for international trade between China and Europe. RUE’s specialists handle:

• VAT registration and fiscal representation across EU member states.
• EORI numbers for import/export operations.
• They also handle tax structuring of intra-company transactions, profit repatriation and double taxation avoidance in accordance with bilateral treaties.
• They also provide ongoing accounting and reporting services to ensure that clients’ businesses stay compliant with local and EU-wide tax rules.

These services provide Chinese law firms with the assurance that their clients’ European entities are legally structured and financially optimised.

Product certification and market access.

For Chinese manufacturers, entering the EU market means meeting strict safety and conformity standards. RUE provides end-to-end assistance with:

• CE marking and conformity assessments for machinery, electronics, toys, cosmetics and other regulated goods.
• Technical documentation and labelling compliance aligned with EU consumer protection rules;
• Coordination with notified bodies and testing laboratories across Europe;
• We also represent non-EU manufacturers as EU Authorised Representatives (EU ARs).

This service ensures that Chinese exporters can legally place their products on the European market, avoiding customs delays, fines or import rejections.

Residence permits and corporate immigration

RUE offers complete immigration support for Chinese entrepreneurs and executives relocating to Europe, including:

• Residence by company formation or investment (e.g. through Portugal, Greece, Spain or Malta).
• Work permits and business visas for executives, shareholders, and dependants.
• Family reunification and permanent residence applications.

These services are particularly valuable for Chinese law firms advising clients on personal mobility, business relocation and family investment planning in Europe.

Ongoing legal, accounting, and compliance support

Once operations begin, RUE continues to support clients with:

• Contract drafting and review that complies with EU commercial law;
• Annual corporate filings, bookkeeping and audit coordination.
• Legal opinions on cross-border trade, data protection (GDPR) and compliance risk;
• Representation in regulatory inquiries or administrative procedures.

This ongoing support enables the Chinese law firm to continue acting as a strategic advisor while RUE manages the operational side of maintaining compliance in Europe.

Tailored packages for Chinese law firms

For regular cooperation, RUE offers custom service packages exclusively for Chinese law firms and their clients.

• Turnkey EU Expansion Package – covering everything from incorporation to the first VAT return.
• The Export-to-Europe Product Compliance Package is designed for manufacturers.
• Investor & Residence Programme Package – for high-net-worth individuals.
• Ongoing Corporate Maintenance Package – for long-term operation.

Each package can be white-labelled under the partner law firm’s brand to maintain full client confidentiality and loyalty.

How cooperation works in practice

Cooperation between Regulated United Europe (RUE) and leading Chinese law firms is based on a well-structured, transparent and highly efficient model. Our goal is to make collaboration effortless for the Chinese firm while ensuring that their clients’ European projects are handled with complete legal and operational precision.

Every joint project follows a clear workflow that preserves the client relationship, ensures confidentiality and delivers measurable results. This structure enables both parties to concentrate on their respective areas of expertise: Chinese law firms oversee strategy and client relations, while RUE manages all European implementation tasks.

Initial contact and project assessment

Each cooperation begins when a Chinese law firm identifies a client with an EU-related need, such as:

1. establishing a subsidiary in Europe;
2. registering a product for sale in the EU;
3. obtaining a financial or industrial licence;
4. or securing residence for company directors or investors.

At this stage, the Chinese firm will reach out to RUE to discuss the client’s objectives, timelines and jurisdictional preferences. RUE then provides an initial feasibility assessment, identifying applicable EU laws, potential regulatory challenges and required procedures.

All discussions are confidential and can take place directly between RUE’s liaison manager and the Chinese firm’s international or outbound department.

Cooperation framework and role allocation

Once the project scope is clear, both firms agree on their respective roles and responsibilities.

The Chinese law firm remains the client’s primary legal counsel and point of contact in China, managing strategy, investment compliance, and domestic approvals.
RUE acts as the EU-side legal and corporate executor, handling incorporation, regulatory filings, tax and compliance matters.

Where appropriate, a joint engagement letter can be signed, clearly outlining confidentiality, scope, communication channels and billing structure (directly or via the Chinese firm). This ensures transparency for all parties and protects client interests at every stage.

Implementation and coordination

Following the formal start, RUE’s operational team begins executing the project. We coordinate every legal and administrative step with the Chinese firm to ensure the client is kept informed in real time.

A dedicated RUE project manager oversees the process, providing:

1. regular progress reports and document updates;
2. legal clarifications for EU regulatory requirements; and
3. strategic recommendations if structural adjustments are needed.

For complex cross-border cases, such as multi-country incorporation, licensing or large-scale compliance projects, RUE establishes a joint task group with the Chinese firm. This allows both sides to work as one cohesive team.

Communication and documentation standards

All communication between RUE and Chinese partners adheres to strict confidentiality and professional ethics protocols.

Communication is conducted in English or Chinese with the support of dedicated bilingual advisors.
RUE ensures that all documentation, including corporate filings, regulatory submissions, contracts and certificates, is translated, certified and notarised in accordance with PRC and EU standards.
Electronic document management is secured through GDPR-compliant systems to ensure client data privacy and safety.

The process is designed to be fully remote, enabling clients and partner firms in China to carry out all procedures without being physically present in Europe, unless required by local law.

Reporting, results and handover

Upon completion, RUE provides the following:

1. certified copies of all corporate or regulatory documents;
2. a final compliance summary; and
3. if applicable, a legal opinion confirming EU compliance.

These deliverables are sent to both the Chinese law firm and the client, depending on confidentiality terms. This transparent structure enables the Chinese firm to report results to the client directly, maintaining their leadership position in the relationship while RUE ensures flawless execution behind the scenes.

Long-Term Cooperation and Client Retention

After project completion, RUE remains available to provide ongoing support, including:

• Annual company maintenance
• Tax filings and renewals
• Regulatory audits and compliance updates
• New project launches as the client expands further in the EU

Many of our Chinese law firm partners have established framework cooperation agreements with RUE. These provide:

• Priority project handling
• Fixed partner rates
• Dedicated account managers
• Access to RUE’s internal legal updates on EU regulatory changes relevant to Chinese investors and exporters

This structure ensures a long-term, scalable partnership that benefits both the Chinese law firm and its clients, creating a continuous flow of collaboration opportunities as China’s presence in the European market grows.

The result: Smooth, secure and sustainable cooperation.

Our model eliminates the usual barriers to cross-border legal work, such as time zones, languages, differing regulations and trust gaps. Through clear communication, defined responsibilities and consistent professionalism, RUE enables Chinese law firms to extend their legal services across Europe without operational risk or loss of clients.

It is a true “win–win” arrangement:

Chinese firms maintain control and client loyalty, clients receive reliable execution within the EU, and RUE delivers precision, speed, and compliance at every step.

Why Leading Chinese Law Firms Choose RUE

Top Chinese law firms – from Red Circle members such as Fangda Partners, Han Kun, JunHe and Zhong Lun, to large, full-service firms such as Grandall, Commerce & Finance and AllBright – select Regulated United Europe (RUE) as their strategic partner in the European Union for one primary reason: we deliver trusted, compliant and results-oriented solutions that strengthen their client relationships and global capabilities.

RUE is not just a service provider – we are a European legal ecosystem tailored to the needs of Chinese legal professionals and their clients. Our cooperation is founded on professionalism, transparency, and a shared commitment to client success.

Regulatory precision and legal reliability

European law is multilayered, combining EU-wide directives, national regulations and local administrative rules. Chinese law firms value RUE because we ensure absolute legal compliance at every stage of their clients’ operations.

Our legal team continuously monitors changes in EU corporate, trade, tax and product compliance laws to ensure that all documents and procedures align with the latest legislation.
We collaborate with qualified lawyers and corporate advisors in each EU member state to guarantee that filings and registrations are valid and enforceable under local law.
In regulated industries such as finance, crypto, energy, manufacturing and healthcare, RUE provides specialised legal guidance and facilitates communication with EU authorities.

This level of precision enables Chinese law firms to assure their clients with confidence that all European legal matters are handled to the highest standard, thereby reducing risk and protecting their international reputation.

Cultural and Communication Compatibility

Cross-border projects often fail not because of legal errors, but because of miscommunication and cultural misunderstandings.
RUE has invested years in understanding the expectations, communication style and workflow of Chinese legal professionals. Our team includes bilingual managers and consultants who are experienced in working with PRC law firms and Chinese corporate clients.

We understand the values that matter most in Chinese business culture – speed, accuracy, reliability and trust – and adapt our communication style accordingly.

We provide quick responses to all partner enquiries, detailed progress reports and written documentation for every stage, and we respect hierarchy and confidentiality within the client–firm relationship.

This cultural alignment enables smooth and professional cooperation, even across time zones and languages.

Non-competitive partnership approach:

Unlike some Western consulting companies that attempt to approach clients directly, RUE’s philosophy is clear: we do not compete with our partner law firms – we strengthen them.

Our model is entirely B2B (law firm to law firm), meaning:

1. RUE does not advertise to or solicit Chinese clients directly.
2. All work is conducted through and under the Chinese partner’s brand, unless otherwise agreed.
3. Chinese firms remain in full control of the client relationship, strategy and reporting.

This ensures that cooperation with RUE strengthens, rather than replaces, the Chinese law firm’s position as the client’s trusted counsel.

Pan-European Reach

Europe is not a single legal system, but rather a mosaic of 27 national jurisdictions, each with their own rules, institutions and procedures.
RUE offers an integrated network that covers all EU member states, including:

1. Major investment destinations: Germany, France, the Netherlands and Italy;
2. Business-friendly jurisdictions: Lithuania, Estonia, Poland and Cyprus;
3. Residency and investment hubs: Portugal, Greece, Spain and Malta.

This network enables Chinese law firms to serve clients entering any part of the European market through a single point of contact at RUE. We coordinate the entire process seamlessly, whether it’s a fintech licence in Lithuania, CE marking in Germany, or company formation in Ireland.

Multisector expertise

Our Chinese clients come from a variety of industries, including manufacturing, technology, finance, logistics, pharmaceuticals, and renewable energy.
RUE’s experts specialise in all major EU regulatory sectors, including:

• Financial and FinTech licensing (EMI, PSP, and crypto asset services);
• Product certification (CE, RoHS, REACH, cosmetics, and medical devices);
• Customs and trade compliance;
• Immigration and residence by investment;
• Corporate governance, taxation, and mergers and acquisitions.

This diversity enables Chinese law firms to rely on RUE for virtually any EU-related legal or compliance issue, safe in the knowledge that their case will be managed by specialists who are familiar with both the technical and cultural context.

Professional Confidentiality and Ethical Standards

RUE adheres to strict European standards of professional ethics, client confidentiality and data protection.

All client information is handled in compliance with the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
Secure communication channels are used for document exchange and storage.
Cooperation agreements may include non-disclosure and non-solicitation clauses to ensure complete trust between firms.

This framework ensures that the reputation and confidentiality of both the Chinese law firm and its clients are fully protected.

Consistent Results and Reputation

Over the years, RUE has built a reputation for precision, transparency and consistency. Many of our Chinese law firm partners return to collaborate on multiple projects for one simple reason: we deliver results.
Whether it’s successful company registration in record time, complex licensing approval or full compliance solutions for product exports, our processes are designed to deliver tangible outcomes without delay or legal risk.

Strategic value for Chinese firms

By partnering with RUE, Chinese law firms can:

• An expanded service portfolio, offering EU law, compliance, and licensing support under their own brand.
• Access to new client segments, such as investors, manufacturers, and trading companies seeking European opportunities.
• Competitive differentiation: the ability to provide a comprehensive “China + Europe” legal solution, which is unmatched by local competitors.

This partnership is about more than just outsourcing services; it’s about empowering Chinese firms to act as global advisors who are equipped to handle the legal aspects of both outbound and inbound business activity.

Examples of successful cooperation

Regulated United Europe‘s collaboration with leading Chinese law firms is not just theoretical – it is backed by dozens of successful real-world cases that demonstrate the effectiveness of our partnership model.
Each project demonstrates how RUE and its Chinese counterparts combine legal precision, regulatory expertise and practical coordination to seamlessly facilitate Chinese clients’ entry into the European market.

The following examples demonstrate how RUE supports leading Chinese law firms and their corporate clients in various industries and EU jurisdictions.

Case 1: High-tech manufacturing expansion into Central Europe

Partner law firm: Han Kun Law Offices
Client: A Shenzhen-based electronics manufacturer (an OEM/ODM supplier to EU brands)
Objective: To establish a European assembly and distribution subsidiary in Poland to serve EU clients directly.

How the cooperation worked:
Han Kun managed all aspects of the outbound investment approval process in China, including SAFE registration and compliance with cross-border capital controls. Once the investment had been approved, RUE took over, handling the formation of the Polish limited liability company, the full registration of VAT and EORI numbers, and the logistics licensing required for intra-EU trade.

RUE‘s contribution included:

1. Drafting and notarising the company’s Articles of Association and shareholder structure in line with PRC ownership rules;
2. Securing a registered office, local director services and a Polish tax ID.
3. Preparing bilingual contracts and ensuring compliance with EU product labelling and CE marking requirements for electronics.

Within five weeks, the company was fully operational, with its first shipment having been cleared through customs under its own EORI.
The success of this project resulted in a long-term cooperation agreement being established between RUE and Han Kun for handling all future EU establishment projects.

Case 2: Pharmaceutical Licensing in the European Union

Partner law firm: Zhong Lun Law Firm
Client: A Beijing-based biotechnology group
Objective: Obtaining product registration and regulatory approval for a new line of health supplements in the EU market.

How the cooperation worked:
Zhong Lun provided advice on intellectual property, product registration strategy and the outbound capital structure in China. RUE managed the EU regulatory process with the relevant authorities.

RUE‘s services included:

• Acting as the client’s EU Authorised Representative (AR) under EU product law.
• Coordinating with notified laboratories for safety and chemical composition testing.
• Preparing all required technical files and conformity documentation under the relevant EU directives;
• Registering the product in the EU’s central database for health and nutritional goods.

The result: The client obtained EU market entry authorisation within three months, allowing distribution across all 27 EU countries. Zhong Lun’s role as lead counsel remained intact, and the client has since expanded into two additional product lines, continuing to use RUE as their EU compliance partner.

Case 3: Investment Migration and Real Estate Acquisition

Partner law firm: JunHe LLP
Client: A Shanghai-based private investor group
Objective: To obtain residence permits in Portugal and Greece through business investment and real estate acquisition.

How the cooperation worked:
JunHe was responsible for client verification, ensuring compliance with PRC outbound capital laws and structuring family assets. RUE coordinated the on-the-ground process in both Portugal and Greece, which included preparing incorporation documents for the investment vehicles, assisting with real estate due diligence and filing for Golden Visa residence permits.

RUE‘s contribution included:

• Incorporating holding companies under Portuguese and Greek law;
• opening local bank accounts and registering for tax;
• drafting and notarising purchase agreements;
• ensuring all transactions met EU AML (anti-money laundering) and PRC SAFE requirements.
• managing residence applications for investors and their families.

All permits were successfully granted within six months and this became a model example of how Chinese investors can enter Europe’s residence-by-investment programmes with full legal and regulatory clarity.

Case 4: FinTech licensing and regulatory structuring

Partner law firm: Fangda Partners
Client: A Chinese digital payments company expanding globally
Objective: To obtain an Electronic Money Institution (EMI) licence in Lithuania for European operations.

How the cooperation worked:
Fangda provided strategic advice to the client on cross-border fintech compliance under PRC law. RUE prepared and filed the complete licensing application package with the Lithuanian central bank, including the business plan, anti-money laundering (AML) policies, and internal control documentation.

RUE‘s contributions included:

• Drafting corporate governance and risk management documents under EU PSD2 and AML directives.
• Coordinating local director recruitment and office setup.
•  Advising on tax and regulatory reporting requirements; and
• Acting as the ongoing compliance partner after licence approval.

The licence was granted after eight months of continuous coordination with the relevant authorities. The client is now fully operational and offering digital payment services across the EU, continuing to work with Fangda and RUE for ongoing compliance and expansion.

Case 5: Consumer Goods Export and CE Certification

Partner law firm: Commerce & Finance Law Offices
Client: A Ningbo-based household appliance manufacturer
Objective: Certify and distribute electrical appliances to EU retailers.

How the cooperation worked:
Commerce & Finance guided the client through export and customs structuring under PRC law, while RUE coordinated CE marking and safety certification in Europe.

RUE’s services included:

• Product safety testing in accredited EU laboratories;
• Preparation of a Declaration of Conformity and technical documentation.
• Appointment of RUE as EU Authorised Representative (EU AR).
• Assistance with customs clearance, EORI registration and compliance labelling.

The entire certification process was completed in less than two months, enabling the client to ship their first batch directly to EU distributors.

Impact of these collaborations:

Each of these examples highlights the strength of RUE’s cooperation model.

The Chinese law firm remains the lead counsel, ensuring full client loyalty.
RUE carries out all EU-side legal and compliance tasks quickly and precisely.
The client benefits from a complete, cross-border solution that is legally sound and commercially effective.

Over time, these collaborations evolve into long-term strategic partnerships, with RUE becoming an extension of the Chinese law firm’s international department and providing trusted European expertise under one unified framework.

For whom does this cooperation work best?

This collaboration is designed to serve a specific and rapidly growing group of clients: Chinese enterprises, investors and entrepreneurs expanding into or interacting with the European market.

Our joint structure is particularly effective for clients who require cross-border legal precision, regulatory compliance and strategic execution in Europe, while continuing to rely on their trusted legal advisors in China for domestic guidance.

The main categories of clients who benefit most from this cooperative model are listed below.

Outbound Chinese investors and corporate groups

Large Chinese conglomerates and privately owned enterprises (POEs) are increasingly investing in European industries, including technology, renewable energy, logistics, and manufacturing.
These clients typically engage a Chinese law firm for outbound investment approvals and structuring. However, they also require an on-the-ground partner in the EU to handle the following:

• company formation and corporate governance;
• legal representation in the chosen member state;
• tax registration and compliance;
• licensing for industrial or commercial activities;
• banking, employment, and real estate documentation.

RUE becomes their execution arm in Europe, ensuring that all aspects of their new business entity comply with EU and national regulations.

Manufacturing and export companies

For Chinese manufacturers selling to the European market, compliance is paramount. Strict EU product standards require technical documentation, CE marking and authorised representation within the EU.
RUE supports Chinese law firms representing such manufacturers by handling:

• CE and sector-specific certification processes;
• EU Authorised Representative (EU AR) mandates;
• Labelling and packaging verification;
• Customs registration and import/export structuring;
• Assistance with post-market surveillance and updates.

This enables Chinese law firms to offer their manufacturing clients a comprehensive ‘factory to Europe’ solution without having to manage technical or EU regulatory details internally.

Technology and FinTech companies

Chinese technology enterprises, especially those in sectors such as AI, e-commerce, mobile payments and blockchain, are increasingly seeking access to European consumers and capital markets.
RUE assists these clients with:

1. Licensing for Electronic Money Institutions (EMIs), Payment Service Providers (PSPs) and Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs);
2. GDPR and data protection compliance;
3. Structuring of cross-border data flow and EU regulatory filings;
4. Assistance with establishing European headquarters or R&D subsidiaries.

By partnering with RUE, Chinese law firms can confidently expand their FinTech or technology practice beyond domestic boundaries, offering clients global scalability and compliance continuity.

Investors and high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs)

A growing number of Chinese investors are pursuing residency or asset diversification in the European Union through investment or real estate acquisition.
Together with Chinese private wealth and immigration law firms, RUE provides:

1. Incorporation of investment holding companies
2. Real estate due diligence, purchase and registration
3. Assistance with residence and Golden Visa programmes in Portugal, Greece, Spain and Malta
4. Tax and estate planning in accordance with EU and bilateral treaties

This cooperation model ensures that investors are fully compliant with both PRC outbound capital and EU immigration regulations, enabling seamless and legally secure investment migration.

Cross-border traders and e-commerce entrepreneurs

Given China’s dominant position in global e-commerce, numerous SMEs and online retailers are now establishing EU-based entities to trade directly with consumers and distributors.
RUE supports these clients through the referring Chinese firm by:

• Setting up EU companies and warehouses for logistics operations;
• VAT and OSS registration for cross-border e-commerce;
• Customs, shipping and import compliance;
• Ongoing accounting and financial reporting under EU tax rules.

Chinese law firms can therefore offer their e-commerce clients a comprehensive solution – from Chinese legal structuring to European corporate management.

Government-linked entities and state-owned enterprises (SOEs)

When Chinese SOEs participate in European infrastructure, energy or public procurement projects, a high level of legal compliance and coordination between governments is required.
RUE provides:

– Legal representation in EU tenders and bidding procedures
– Regulatory advice on energy, transport and infrastructure projects
– Support in obtaining permits and environmental approvals
– Coordination with EU institutions and national regulators

Through this cooperation, Chinese law firms can extend their counsel to include European legal and procedural requirements, thereby strengthening their ability to represent SOE clients on global projects.

Startups and Emerging Ventures

A new generation of Chinese entrepreneurs, particularly those specialising in technology, sustainability and innovation, are setting up operations in Europe to access EU funding programmes and local talent.
RUE helps these startup clients with:

• Quick and cost-effective company formation in startup-friendly EU jurisdictions
•  Assistance with accelerator and grant applications
• Drafting of founders’ agreements, shareholder structures, and IP protection
• Accounting and compliance support for seed and venture funding rounds

For Chinese law firms advising start-ups with global ambitions, RUE serves as a trusted launch partner in the European innovation ecosystem.

RUE–Chinese law firm cooperation is especially beneficial when:

• The client is seeking long-term establishment rather than one-off transactions;
• Regulatory or compliance obligations require local EU representation;
• The client values confidentiality, coordinated communication and trusted supervision through their Chinese lawyers;
• The project involves multiple EU jurisdictions, requiring cross-border coordination.

In these cases, working through RUE ensures that all European procedures are completed correctly and efficiently, while the Chinese law firm retains full strategic control and client loyalty.

How to Start Cooperation

Establishing a partnership between Regulated United Europe (RUE) and a Chinese law firm is a straightforward and professional process, based on clarity, confidentiality and mutual trust. Our goal is to make the partnership as smooth and efficient as the services we deliver to clients.

We understand that, for Chinese legal institutions, every client relationship is based on reputation and loyalty. That’s why RUE’s cooperation model is designed to strengthen the partner firm’s international capabilities while ensuring all communication, reporting and results flow seamlessly through the Chinese law firm itself.

Below is a step-by-step guide on how cooperation begins, develops and grows into a lasting partnership.

Step 1: Introduction and initial dialogue

The process usually begins with a strategic conversation between RUE and the international or outbound investment department of the Chinese law firm.
During this meeting, we:

• introduce RUE’s service scope, EU jurisdictions and practice areas;
•  learn about the Chinese firm’s areas of focus, such as outbound investment, manufacturing, technology, immigration or compliance;
•  identify common client types and industries that could benefit from cooperation.

This initial dialogue establishes a foundation of mutual understanding, helping both parties to tailor the collaboration model to best fit their clients’ needs.

Step 2: Cooperation Framework Agreement

Once both parties have agreed on the potential for cooperation, RUE will prepare a Bilateral Cooperation Agreement, which is a professional document that will outline the following:

• Scope of services (corporate, licensing, compliance, residency, etc.);
• Referral process and communication channels;
• Confidentiality and non-solicitation clauses to protect the Chinese firm’s client relationships;
• Service fee structures (either direct to the client or through the partner firm);
• Joint responsibility framework to ensure quality and transparency.

This agreement formalises the relationship and provides legal assurance for both parties. It is flexible, allowing the partner firm to use RUE for one-off cases or on an ongoing basis.

Step 3: Appointing Designated Liaisons

To ensure efficient cooperation, both parties assign dedicated liaison officers.

A RUE partnership manager acts as the direct contact for all new and ongoing projects and can be reached via email, WeChat or phone.
The Chinese law firm will designate one or more representatives (typically from the international or corporate department) to coordinate client cases.

This ensures smooth communication, fast decision-making and immediate access to project updates. RUE’s bilingual staff are trained to manage projects according to the workflow expectations of Chinese firms, providing clarity, speed and accountability.

Step 4: Training and knowledge sharing

RUE supports its partner law firms by providing training sessions and knowledge exchange opportunities. These may include:

•  Online webinars and Q&A sessions explaining EU legal structures, licensing and immigration programmes;
• Internal presentations for Chinese firms’ lawyers on how to offer EU-related services to their clients;
• Regular newsletters and legal updates summarising recent EU regulatory developments relevant to Chinese investors.

This educational cooperation helps Chinese law firms to enhance their international service offering, positioning them as global advisors for their clients.

Step 5: Case Referral and Project Initiation

Once the framework is in place, the cooperation becomes fully operational.
When the Chinese law firm identifies a client requiring assistance in Europe, the process is simple:

The firm informs RUE about the client’s goals (e.g. ‘open a subsidiary in Germany’, ‘obtain an EMI licence’, ‘set up EU distribution for certified goods’).
RUE then prepares a preliminary action plan detailing the steps to be taken, the timelines, the costs and the compliance requirements.
The Chinese firm then reviews the proposal and presents it to the client.
Upon approval, RUE begins implementation, keeping the Chinese firm fully informed at every stage.

This approach enables Chinese lawyers to maintain control of the client relationship while ensuring that European operations are executed flawlessly.

Step 6: Communication and project reporting

RUE maintains real-time communication with the partner firm throughout every project.

Detailed progress reports are provided weekly or at agreed milestones.
All documents, filings and approvals are shared securely via encrypted digital channels.
For complex projects, regular video meetings are held to align legal positions and manage expectations.

Our bilingual team ensures that language or time zone barriers never affect the project timeline.

Step 7: Post-completion and continuous cooperation

Following the successful completion of a project, RUE will issue a final report package containing all official EU documents, corporate certificates and regulatory approvals.
We also provide post-project support, including:

• Annual maintenance (accounting, tax and corporate updates);
• Regulatory renewal notifications;
• Strategic advice for the client’s future EU activities.

In many cases, this leads to ongoing collaboration, with RUE becoming the permanent European execution partner for all future clients referred by the Chinese law firm.

Step 8: Co-branding and joint outreach opportunities

For long-term cooperation partners, RUE also offers co-branding and marketing collaboration options:

• Joint bilingual brochures outlining the EU services available to the Chinese firm’s clients
• Co-hosted webinars or business forums on EU legal topics relevant to Chinese investors
• Exclusive partner listings on the RUE website in the “Trusted Law Firms” section

These initiatives strengthen the partner firm’s international profile and demonstrate its ability to deliver complete ‘China + Europe’ legal solutions.

Step 9: Key Principles of Partnership

To maintain the quality and integrity of every partnership, RUE adheres to three core principles:

Transparency: all procedures, fees and responsibilities are clearly defined and documented.
Confidentiality: client identities and information are strictly protected.
Reciprocal growth: the partnership is designed to create new opportunities for both firms, rather than competing with each other.

These principles ensure that every partnership is sustainable, mutually beneficial and conducted to the highest professional standard.

Trusted EU Partner for Chinese Legal Leaders

In today’s interconnected world, the relationship between China and the European Union is one of the defining features of global commerce, technology and investment. Every year, more Chinese companies enter European markets, whether through trade, manufacturing, technology or asset acquisition, and each of them requires precise, compliant and reliable legal support on both sides of the continent.

Regulated United Europe (RUE) acts as a bridge between China’s leading law firms and the European legal environment.
We don’t just act as a local service provider – we complement and empower Chinese legal professionals, ensuring their clients receive comprehensive support throughout their European journey, from planning and establishment to long-term compliance.

A Partnership of Equals

Our cooperation model is built on a foundation of mutual respect, professional integrity, and shared expertise.
Chinese law firms contribute in-depth knowledge of PRC law, domestic regulatory processes and an understanding of their clients’ cultural needs. RUE contributes local execution, mastery of EU law, familiarity with European regulatory institutions and a presence across all 27 member states.

Together, we create a coordinated, cross-border legal system for Chinese clients – one that delivers continuity, certainty and results.
This model enables Chinese law firms to expand their global capabilities without losing control of their clients or their brand integrity, while giving their clients direct access to trusted European implementation under the firm’s supervision.

Strength Through Cooperation

The joint success stories we have achieved – ranging from large-scale manufacturing projects and licensing cases to residence programmes and fintech expansions – demonstrate a consistent truth: when Chinese and European legal experts collaborate, the outcome is faster project execution, reduced risk, and stronger client confidence. Our collaboration eliminates language barriers, regulatory confusion and cultural friction, replacing them with transparent communication, prompt action and mutual accountability.
This is not outsourcing; it is a strategic extension of capability, where both sides share expertise, responsibility and success.

A Platform for the Future

As Chinese outbound investment continues to diversify – from high-tech innovation and green energy to logistics and international trade – the demand for coordinated, cross-border legal support will only increase.
RUE is prepared to grow alongside this trend by developing its partnerships with leading Chinese law firms, introducing new service lines and enhancing digital collaboration tools for cross-border projects.

We are committed to being the long-term European partner for China’s legal community, supporting not only today’s projects, but also the next generation of global expansion.

Both RUE and our Chinese partner firms share the same professional DNA:

Precision and integrity in every document, filing and transaction; confidentiality and trust as the basis of all cooperation; commitment to client success, measured not just by completion, but also by compliance and sustainability; and continuous adaptation to new laws, technologies and business realities in a fast-changing global environment.

These shared values ensure that every joint project between RUE and our Chinese partners upholds the highest ethical and professional standards, worthy of both European and Chinese legal traditions.

In the coming years, the legal world will be defined not by borders, but by cooperation between jurisdictions.
Chinese clients will continue to invest, innovate and establish roots across Europe, and they will expect their trusted legal advisors to provide global guidance.

By cooperating with RUE, Chinese law firms gain access to a ready-made European infrastructure and a partner that shares the same commitment to quality, confidentiality and client loyalty.
Together, we enable Chinese enterprises to succeed legally, efficiently and confidently in Europe, supported by two of the world’s strongest legal systems.

Closing message:

Regulated United Europe is proud to stand alongside China’s leading law firms as a trusted European partner.
We share one vision:
To facilitate the seamless, compliant, and successful entry of every Chinese client into the European market – supported by the combined strengths of Chinese legal excellence and European regulatory expertise.

For every project, every jurisdiction and every client, RUE is your reliable European partner, ensuring Chinese professionalism flourishes within the legal and commercial framework of the European Union.