Published by ChinaMNC · Shuangcheng

Website Certification and Accessibility Standards for Foreign Founders Operating in China

A practical guide for foreign founders on the Chinese government's website evaluation and certification system, including accessibility and performance benchmarks, based on official Heilongjiang Provincial Government data.

Understanding Website Certification in China

When operating a company in China, maintaining a compliant and accessible website is essential. The Chinese government has established a formal evaluation and certification system for official websites, which provides useful benchmarks for foreign founders. This article summarizes the key elements of that system, using the Heilongjiang Provincial Government portal as a case study, and offers practical guidance.

Evaluation Criteria and Scores

The evaluation covers two main site types: PC and WAP (mobile). For each, assessments are made in two categories: elderly-friendly design and accessibility. Scores are given by three parties: self-assessment, institutional assessment, and user assessment. Additionally, an efficacy index measures comprehensiveness, reliability, and robustness, each expressed as a percentage.

For the Heilongjiang Provincial Government portal, the results are as follows:

• PC website: Elderly-friendly scores: self 100, institutional 82, user 80. Accessibility scores: self 100, institutional 83, user 84. Efficacy index: comprehensiveness 100%, reliability 100%, robustness 100%. Overall score: 85.8.
• WAP website: Elderly-friendly scores: self 100, institutional 83, user 83. Accessibility scores: self 100, institutional 80, user 83. Efficacy index: comprehensiveness 100%, reliability 100%, robustness 100%. Overall score: 85.8.

These figures indicate high performance, particularly in technical efficacy, while institutional and user scores suggest room for improvement in design and usability. Foreign founders should note that similar standards may apply to commercial websites, especially those serving diverse populations.

Certification and Validity

Website certification is administered by the China Internet Society under the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology. For the Heilongjiang portal, both PC and WAP certifications are valid for two years, from March 5, 2026 to March 4, 2028. This period is typical, and founders should plan for regular renewal.

Additionally, a certificate of accessibility and elderly-friendly evaluation is issued, with the same two-year validity. A downloadable PDF report (stamped version) is available for reference.

Regular Inspections

Certified websites undergo periodic inspections to ensure continued compliance. For the Heilongjiang portal, inspections are scheduled for September 4, 2026; March 4, 2027; and September 4, 2027. All inspections have passed. Foreign founders should anticipate similar schedules for their own sites and maintain readiness.

Implications for Foreign Founders

While the source focuses on a government website, the underlying standards reflect broader expectations for digital accessibility and performance in China. Foreign founders establishing a company should consider the following:

• Accessibility compliance: Ensure your website meets accessibility standards, including features for elderly and disabled users. This is not only a legal consideration but also enhances user experience and market reach.
• Performance metrics: Aim for high comprehensiveness, reliability, and robustness. These technical aspects are crucial for user trust and search engine visibility.
• Certification benefits: Although not mandatory for all commercial sites, certification can demonstrate commitment to quality and compliance, which may be valued by partners and customers.
• Regular audits: Implement periodic self-assessments and third-party evaluations to identify and address issues proactively.

By aligning with these standards, foreign founders can build a solid digital presence that supports their overall business operations in China.

Practical Steps for Compliance

To navigate the certification landscape, consider these steps:

• Understand the criteria: Familiarize yourself with the evaluation categories (elderly-friendly, accessibility, efficacy) and scoring methods.
• Conduct self-assessments: Use the self-assessment scores as a baseline to improve institutional and user ratings.
• Engage experts: Consult with local experts on accessibility and performance optimization.
• Plan for certification: If seeking certification, apply through the China Internet Society and prepare for regular inspections.
• Monitor changes: Stay updated on regulatory changes, as standards may evolve.

These measures can help ensure your website remains compliant and competitive.

Conclusion

Website certification and accessibility standards are integral to operating successfully in China's digital landscape. By understanding the evaluation framework and maintaining high standards, foreign founders can enhance their credibility and reach. For personalized assistance, foreign founders can contact ChinaMNC on WhatsApp / WeChat at +86 153 1898 8535 for help registering and operating a company in China.

This summary is based on information published by the relevant Chinese government website and is general information, not legal or tax advice.