Pakistani entrepreneur Muhammad Yousuf (right) consults with staff at the Qingdao Area of the China (Shandong) Pilot Free Trade Zone. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
Pakistani entrepreneur Muhammad Yousuf has become the first foreign business owner to join a specialized trade community at the Qingdao International Energy Free Trade Port, completing the process from initial consultation to company registration in just over 40 days.
Located in the Qingdao Area of the China (Shandong) Pilot Free Trade Zone, the community is designed to support one-person companies engaged in international trade. It offers free office space, digital tools, business matchmaking, and administrative support.
Yousuf, who has long sourced chemical products from China for overseas markets, previously relied on third-party agencies to handle customs declarations, export tax rebates, and other procedures because he lacked a registered business on the Chinese mainland.
After discovering the community through an online search, he traveled to Qingdao to explore setting up a company.
Dedicated service staff members guided him through the registration process and helped him complete the required certification for his Hong Kong-based investment entity in less than 20 days.
His company was registered in late August, with subsequent assistance covering bank account opening and applications for chemical business permits.
The community also uses AI-powered tools to identify potential overseas customers and connect businesses with trade opportunities.
Looking ahead, Yousuf plans to establish a chemical processing facility in Qingdao, expanding beyond trading into manufacturing.
China (Shandong) Pilot Free Trade Zone Qingdao Area
