---
title: "Catalogues in Chinese Governance | Model Diplomat"
description: "Catalogues are binding lists by Chinese state organs that classify activities into categories, guiding policy implementation for researchers and diplomats."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/catalogues"
---

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Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- Catalogues (mulu) are binding administrative lists issued by Chinese state organs that classify activities, industries, or items into permitted, restricted, or prohibited categories to direct policy implementation.
- How does a catalogue differ from a law in the Chinese legal hierarchy?
- What is the difference between a positive catalogue and a negative list?
- Which authority issues the main foreign-investment catalogues in China?
- Why do catalogues matter for China's industrial policy?

[Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services/glossary)Updated June 22, 2026

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In June 2020 China's NDRC and MOFCOM issued a shortened Negative List for Foreign Investment Access, cutting restricted entries from 40 to 33 and opening sectors such as commercial vehicle manufacturing to full foreign ownership.

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