Published by ChinaMNC · Shunping

What China's 'Long March' Narrative Means for Foreign Founders Setting Up in China

Foreign founders can draw practical lessons from the Long March spirit—perseverance, local adaptation, and long-term commitment—when registering and operating a company in China. This article summarizes official statements and historical facts without offering legal or tax advice.

Introduction: A Story of Perseverance

For foreign entrepreneurs considering company registration or operations in China, understanding the country's foundational narratives can offer useful context. One such narrative is the Long March, a major historical event that Chinese leaders frequently reference. While not a business guide, the story illustrates themes of resilience, adaptation, and long-term commitment—qualities that resonate with founders navigating a new market.

According to official sources, the Long March lasted 90 years ago and is described as unprecedented in length, scale, distance, and hardship. It is portrayed as a turning point in China's modern history. For foreign founders, the key takeaway is not the politics but the emphasis on perseverance through difficult circumstances—a mindset that can be helpful when dealing with regulatory processes, cultural differences, and market entry challenges.

Key Historical Facts Referenced by Officials

The Long March and Its Legacy

Official accounts state that the Long March involved extreme conditions and significant sacrifice. For example, the Central Red Army started with over 86,000 personnel and was reduced to just over 30,000 after the Battle of Xiangjiang. Such figures underscore the scale of hardship. Later, during the West Route Army campaign, over 20,000 soldiers faced severe cold and enemy forces, with many perishing. These historical details are often cited to illustrate determination and belief in a cause.

President Xi Jinping has repeatedly emphasized the importance of remembering this history. In 2016, at a commemorative event, he outlined the "spirit of the Long March" as including placing the fundamental interests of the people above all, steadfast ideals, willingness to sacrifice, independent thinking, discipline, and reliance on the masses. While these are political concepts, they can be interpreted as general principles of leadership and teamwork that apply to building a company.

Personal Commitment and Local Roots

Xi's own experience includes seven years in Shaanxi province, where he says he learned about reality, facts, and the masses. He has described Shaanxi as his "root" and Yan'an as his "soul." For foreign founders, this highlights the value of immersing oneself in local contexts—understanding local regulations, business practices, and consumer behavior—rather than relying solely on remote management.

During his career, Xi visited revolutionary sites multiple times, including the Xiangjiang Battle memorial, the Zunyi Conference site, and the West Route Army memorial. These visits reflect a pattern of learning from history. Similarly, foreign founders can benefit from studying China's business history and regulatory evolution to inform their strategies.

Practical Takeaways for Foreign Founders

1. Perseverance Through Challenges

Company registration and early operations in China can involve complex procedures, language barriers, and cultural adjustments. The Long March narrative emphasizes not giving up when faced with obstacles. While the contexts differ, the underlying message—that persistence is essential—can encourage founders to navigate bureaucratic processes methodically and seek local expertise.

2. Adapt to Local Conditions

Just as the Red Army adapted to different terrains, foreign founders should adapt to local business environments. This means understanding China's regulatory framework, respecting local customs, and building relationships with local partners and authorities. Official statements stress "seeking truth from facts" and "proceeding from reality"—principles that translate into conducting thorough market research and complying with local laws.

3. Build a Committed Team

The Long March story underscores unity and discipline. For startups, this means assembling a team that shares a long-term vision and is willing to work through difficulties. Foreign founders should consider hiring local talent who understand the market and can bridge cultural gaps, fostering a cohesive team culture.

4. Focus on Long-Term Goals

Officials often frame the Long March as part of a broader journey toward national rejuvenation. For foreign founders, this serves as a reminder to set clear long-term objectives and remain focused despite short-term setbacks. China's market offers significant opportunities, but success often requires sustained effort and patience.

5. Leverage Historical and Cultural Understanding

Understanding China's history, including the Long March, can help foreign founders communicate more effectively with local stakeholders. Showing respect for China's heritage and demonstrating cultural awareness can build trust and facilitate smoother business interactions.

Conclusion

While the Long March is a political and historical narrative, its themes of perseverance, adaptation, and commitment are relevant to foreign founders operating in China. By embracing these principles, entrepreneurs can better navigate the challenges of setting up and growing a company in China. However, always ensure compliance with local laws and seek professional advice for specific legal and tax matters.

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