"ODI" stands for "Overseas Direct Investment," and "ODI Filing" or "ODI Approval" refers to the official registration and approval process required by Chinese authorities for Chinese enterprises conducting outbound foreign direct investment. The full English term is typically expressed as:
"Overseas Direct Investment (ODI) Filing/Approval"
This process is mandatory for Chinese companies, individuals, or entities seeking to invest in overseas assets, establish foreign subsidiaries, acquire equity in foreign companies, or engage in cross-border mergers and acquisitions. The filing or approval is administered by relevant Chinese government authorities, primarily:
- National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) – responsible for project review and macro-level approval.
- Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) – handles commercial registration and issues the Enterprise Overseas Investment Certificate.
- State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE) – oversees foreign exchange registration and fund remittance.
There are two types of procedures:
- Filing (Record-filing): For non-sensitive countries, regions, and industries, a simpler filing process applies, usually handled at the provincial level.
- Approval: Required for investments in sensitive sectors (e.g., military, media, infrastructure) or in sensitive countries, which must be reviewed by the central NDRC.
Key documents typically required include:
- Company registration documents
- Investment plan or feasibility study report
- Financial statements
- Board resolution or shareholder decision
- Contracts or agreements related to the investment
- Source of funding proof
Once approved or filed, the investor receives the "Enterprise Overseas Investment Certificate" from MOFCOM, which is essential for subsequent foreign exchange and bank procedures.
In summary, "ODI filing" is the standardized English term used in international business and regulatory contexts to describe China’s outbound investment clearance process. It ensures compliance with Chinese laws on capital controls and cross-border investment.