Grant Thornton China has opened an office in Shanghai’s Free-Trade Zone (FTZ).
The move represents the network’s formal entrance into the area. Officially launched in September 2013, the FTZ is the first of its kind in mainland China and is being used as a greenhouse to test several economic and social reforms.
Grant Thornton China is among the first global businesses to enter the zone and has described itself as "committed to leveraging its global network to provide all-around professional services to businesses in the FTZ."
The newly established office will offer the full range of professional services, including auditing, customs, tax, finance and accounting, business establishment and integrated consulting, according to Grant Thornton China, whilst also endeavouring to connect government and enterprises through the promotion of "systematic reforms" aimed at supporting the development of the FTZ.
Grant Thornton China counts over 160 partners and 3,000 professionals working out of 20 offices across the mainland and Hong Kong.