We support clients across the semiconductor value chain—from chip design and IP licensing to government incentives and export control compliance. Our team advises both Chinese and international players on the legal complexities of developing, financing, and protecting semiconductor assets in China.

Regulatory Recognition and Incentives

• Company setup and policy recognition

  We assist chip design companies in entity formation, policy recognition filings, and accessing tax incentives such as instant VAT refunds and reduced corporate income tax rates under Chinese industrial policies.

• Subsidy application and compliance

  We advise on applying for government subsidies and R&D grants, and ensure proper use and reporting to mitigate risks of clawbacks or compliance violations.

Contracting and IP Allocation

• R&D and production agreements

  We draft and review contracts covering chip design, tape-out, packaging, and testing, including provisions for IP ownership, benefit-sharing, and milestone management.

• Procurement and licensing risk control

  We review agreements for procurement, technology licensing, and IP transfers to mitigate contractual and infringement risks, especially where third-party tools or foundry access are involved.

• Technology introduction and EDA licensing

  We provide compliance advice on inbound licensing of semiconductor design software (EDA tools), and support cross-border contracting for foreign technologies used in chip development.

Cross-Border Compliance and Risk Management

• Export control and supply chain disruption

  We assess risks arising from U.S. export controls, Entity List designations, and supply chain restrictions, and help clients structure business models to minimize disruption.

• Compliance in IPOs and M&A

  We conduct IP due diligence and regulatory compliance reviews in semiconductor-related IPOs, restructurings, and cross-border acquisitions.

Intellectual Property and Protection

• Patent and trade secret strategy

  We advise on patent filings for chip architecture and layout, trade secret protection of design assets, and enforcement strategies against unauthorized use or misappropriation.

• Fund structuring for semiconductor investment

  We help structure partnerships and co-investment arrangements with industrial or government-backed funds supporting semiconductor innovation.