Published by ChinaMNC · Huocheng

How Foreign Founders Can Request Government Information in Xinjiang: A Practical Guide

A step-by-step guide for foreign entrepreneurs on filing freedom-of-information requests with the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region government, including required forms, submission methods, and contact details.

Accessing Government Information in Xinjiang: What Foreign Founders Need to Know

For foreign founders setting up or running a business in China, access to official government information can be crucial for compliance and planning. Under China's open government information framework, citizens, legal persons, and other organizations—referred to as "applicants"—may request government information beyond what is proactively disclosed. This guide outlines the process for submitting such requests to the General Office of the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region People's Government, based on the official guidelines published on the regional government portal.

Who Can Apply and What Information Is Available

Any citizen, legal entity, or organization may apply to obtain government information that is not already publicly available. This includes foreign-invested enterprises operating in Xinjiang. The information must be described clearly enough for the receiving agency to identify it. While the source does not specify restrictions on foreign applicants, the process is open to "citizens, legal persons, or other organizations."

Step 1: Obtain and Complete the Application Form

Applicants must fill out the Government Information Disclosure Application Form of the General Office of the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region People's Government (hereinafter the "Application Form"). The form is available in two ways:

• Collect it in person at the receiving agency's office.
• Download it from the autonomous region government portal at www.xinjiang.gov.cn. Copies are valid.

The form requires the following details:

• Applicant identification: Your name or the name of your organization, valid identification document, and contact information.
• Description of the information sought: The name, document number, or other characteristics that will help the agency locate the information. Be as specific and detailed as possible.
• Format preferences: How you would like to receive the information (e.g., method and channel).
• Identification verification: If applying in person, bring your valid ID. If applying by post, attach a copy of your valid ID. If applying by email, provide a scanned copy or photo of your valid ID.

Step 2: Submit Your Application

You can submit your application through three channels:

In-Person Submission

Visit the General Office of the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region People's Government at:
Address: 479 Zhongshan Road, Urumqi, Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region
Office Hours:
Summer: 10:00–14:00 and 16:00–20:00
Winter: 10:00–14:00 and 15:30–19:30
(Closed on public holidays)
Phone: 0991-2383723

Submission by Post

Mail your application to the same address. Include the postal code: 830002. On the envelope, clearly mark "Government Information Disclosure Application."

Submission by Email

Send your application to [email protected]. After sending, call 0991-2383723 to confirm receipt.

Processing and Response

The source does not specify processing times or fees. However, ensure your application includes all required elements to avoid delays. The agency will use the details you provide to locate the information. If your request is unclear, the agency may contact you for clarification.

Additional Resources

The Xinjiang government portal provides links to various disclosure categories, including:

• Policy
• Government Information Disclosure Guide
• Government Information Disclosure System
• Statutory Proactive Disclosure Content
• Government Information Disclosure Annual Reports (available for years 2008 through 2025)
• Application-based Disclosure
• Links to local departments

These resources may help you understand what information is already publicly available before submitting a formal request.

Tips for Foreign Founders

• Be precise: Clearly describe the information you need—include document titles, reference numbers, or specific dates if known.
• Prepare identification: Have a valid passport or business license ready for verification.
• Use email confirmation: If submitting by email, always follow up with a phone call to ensure your request was received.
• Check the portal first: Many documents may already be published under proactive disclosure categories.

This summary is based on information published by the relevant Chinese government website and is general information, not legal or tax advice.