Published by ChinaMNC ยท Kangding
Website Identification Management for Foreign Founders: Insights from Sichuan Provincial Government Portal
A practical guide for foreign founders on China's website identification management system, using the Sichuan Provincial Government portal as a case study. Learn about certification validity, periodic inspections, and compliance requirements.
Website Identification Management: What Foreign Founders Need to Know
When operating a company website in China, understanding the website identification management system is essential for compliance and credibility. This article uses the recent evaluation of the Sichuan Provincial Government portal (www.sc.gov.cn) as a case study to illustrate how the system works and what foreign founders should consider when registering or operating a business website in China.
Overview of the Sichuan Provincial Government Portal
The Sichuan Provincial Government portal is operated by the General Office of the Sichuan Provincial People's Government, a party and government organ. The website holds an electronic identification number DZJG20260100003479PW. While this is a government site, the evaluation metrics and certification processes are similar to those that apply to commercial websites, making it a useful reference for foreign founders.
Website Evaluation Scores
The portal underwent evaluations for both its PC and WAP versions, covering usability for seniors, accessibility, and overall performance. For the PC website, self-evaluation scores were 100 for senior-friendly design and 100 for accessibility, while institutional evaluation gave 82 and 83 respectively, and user evaluation gave 83 and 83. The efficiency index showed 100% comprehensiveness, reliability, and robustness. The overall evaluation score for the PC site was 86.2.
For the WAP website, self-evaluation scores were 100 for senior-friendly design and 100 for accessibility, institutional evaluation gave 82 and 80, and user evaluation gave 81 and 82. The efficiency index again showed 100% across comprehensiveness, reliability, and robustness, with an overall score of 85.4.
These scores reflect the website's performance in key areas. Foreign founders should note that similar evaluations may apply to commercial websites, and maintaining high standards in accessibility and senior-friendly design can improve user experience and regulatory compliance.
Identification Management Details
The identification management for the portal is overseen by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), with certification issued by the Internet Society of China. The PC website identification certification is valid for two years, from January 27, 2026, to January 26, 2028. The WAP website identification certification has the same validity period: two years, from January 27, 2026, to January 26, 2028.
This two-year validity period is standard for website identification in China. Foreign founders should be aware that their website identification will need renewal every two years to remain compliant.
Periodic Inspections
The portal is subject to regular inspections. Scheduled inspection dates are July 26, 2026; January 26, 2027; and July 26, 2027. The inspection results are recorded as "passed." These periodic checks ensure ongoing compliance with identification requirements. Foreign founders should anticipate similar inspections for their websites and prepare to demonstrate continued adherence to standards.
Certificate Authentication
The certificate authentication for the portal is also valid for two years, from January 27, 2026, to January 26, 2028. A downloadable certificate is available: "Sichuan Provincial People's Government Portal Website Senior-Friendly and Accessibility Evaluation Report_Sealed Version.pdf." This indicates that official evaluation reports are generated and can be accessed. Foreign founders may need to obtain similar reports for their websites as part of the certification process.
Practical Guidance for Foreign Founders
Based on the information from the Sichuan Provincial Government portal, here are key takeaways for foreign founders operating websites in China:
- Understand the regulatory bodies: The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) oversees identification management, and the Internet Society of China issues certifications. Familiarize yourself with their requirements.
- Plan for two-year certification cycles: Website identification certifications are valid for two years. Mark your calendar for renewal to avoid disruptions.
- Prepare for periodic inspections: Regular inspections, such as those scheduled every six months for the portal, may be required. Ensure your website remains compliant with accessibility and performance standards.
- Maintain high evaluation scores: While the portal achieved high scores, commercial websites may face similar evaluations. Focus on comprehensiveness, reliability, and robustness to achieve favorable efficiency indices.
- Keep documentation ready: Official evaluation reports and certificates may be needed. Maintain records and be prepared to provide them upon request.
By following these practices, foreign founders can navigate China's website identification system more effectively and enhance their website's credibility among Chinese users.
This summary is based on information published by the relevant Chinese government website and is general information, not legal or tax advice.