Political consultants/lobbyists in China?

Is it possible to legally influence law and policy in China?


For example, if an organisation wanted to push for changing a law related to its operations, are there consultants - e.g. the equivalent of lobbyists - who can be legally hired to access and influence the right NPC and/or Party officials?

I think in China there is no need to have a lobbyist in between... the custom seems to simply give cash directly to the politician and strike a deal...

Thanks so much for your enquiry. For the past 10 years, I've worked in China with an animal-welfare charity trying to end live bear bile farming. We have primarily focused on reducing demand through public awareness initiatives.


A more direct approach would be for China to ban the practice entirely; however, I have been told again and again that it is nearly impossible to influence the China legislative process without engaging in corruption. I am hopeful there are alternatives - for example, it seems that if a corporation wanted to change a law that would bring efficiencies to their supply chain, they would approach those who could influence the law to promote their interests. If they did not know who to approach, they would hire an experienced political advisor who could direct them to those who would support the legislative change and to those who might oppose it. And since many companies come from countries that prohibit "corrupt practices," this process must be possible through channels that are entirely legal.


The question then is do such political advisors/consultants/lobbyists exist in China and can they assist in influencing policy through legal means?

Hi Ed,


I really appreciate your reply - thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts. Your comment is consistent with what I have heard from other sources. Unfortunately, this approach is not an option for our organisation, which relies on our reputation of integrity to keep international support. I'm hopeful that we can defy the trend. :)

agree - i would not go down that road...