What's ICP Certificate and How to Apply?
Host your website on a server located in China? Then you will need the famous ICP certificate. ICP means Internet Conten Provider and there are two types of ICP certificates: Commercial and Noncommercial.
If you are just setting up your company's website or other information sites, then you will only need the Noncommercial ICP certificate. Most Chinese host server providers can help you with that without a charge, if you are a Chinese company or individual. Or you can apply for it through the website of Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, www.miibeian.gov.cn , by yourself. The only issue is time - it may take up to 20 business days given that the information you provide is correct.
If you are setting up an online store or any commercial website, then you will need the Commercial ICP certificate. A foreign company is not allowed to apply for it. Only Chinese companies or joint ventures with more than 51% shares held by Chinese can apply for the certificate.
So if you are a foreign company or individual, how can you apply for an ICP certificate? The most feasible way is to entrust a Chinese company/individual to operate and maintain the website for you in China. For example, Groupon entrusts a joint venture, an advertisement in Beijing, and Yahoo entrusts Beijing Alibaba Technology Co. to operate their Chinese sites.
If you would like to know more about the ICP certificate, you may order our Guide of China's ICP Certificate through the following PayPal button. It provides the exclusive comprehensive information about the ICP and our advice. You will find everything you need to know!
