Leasing and Business Services · China · GB/T 4754 7261

Auditing, Accounting & Tax Services in China: Market Size, Businesses & Forecast 2026

The auditing, accounting & tax services industry in China provides professional financial services to businesses and organizations, including auditing, accounting, tax consulting, and related financial advisory services. This industry is experiencing significant growth driven by China's expanding economy, regulatory changes, and increasing international business activities. The industry is evolving to meet the demands of China's economic transformation and globalization efforts.

Outlook
Growing
Competition
Moderate, rising

Industry snapshot

Demand drivers
Regulatory Compliance
Economic Growth
International Business
Corporate Governance
Digital Transformation
Relative importance, Claight qualitative assessment.
Market structure
fragmented
moderate
concentrated
Competitive intensity
moderate, rising
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Key public data points

Number of Certified Public Accountants i (2022)112,000 people
Source: China Institute of Certified Public Accountants
Number of Accounting Firms in China (2022)9,200 firms
Source: China Institute of Certified Public Accountants
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Industry Definition and Scope

What does the Auditing, Accounting & Tax Services in China industry cover?

The auditing, accounting & tax services industry encompasses firms that provide professional services related to financial statement audits, tax preparation and planning, accounting systems, financial consulting, and related compliance services. These services are essential for businesses operating in China's complex regulatory environment, covering both domestic enterprises and multinational corporations with Chinese operations. The industry includes both international accounting firms and domestic Chinese accounting service providers.

Market Structure and Operators

Who operates in the industry and how is it structured?

China's auditing and accounting market is characterized by the presence of the international 'Big Four' accounting firms (Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG) alongside numerous domestic Chinese accounting firms. The China Institute of Certified Public Accountants (CICPA) regulates the profession and sets professional standards. In recent years, Chinese domestic firms have been expanding their service capabilities and international presence, while maintaining competitive advantages in understanding local business practices and regulatory requirements.

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Demand Drivers

What drives demand in the industry?

Demand for auditing, accounting and tax services is driven by China's economic growth, increasing regulatory requirements, and expanding international business activities. The government's anti-corruption campaigns and corporate governance reforms have increased demand for compliance and audit services. Additionally, China's Belt and Road Initiative and international trade activities have created demand for cross-border tax and accounting expertise from both international and domestic firms.

Competitive Landscape and Notable Public Companies

Who are the notable companies in the industry?

The competitive landscape includes both international accounting networks and domestic Chinese firms. While international firms dominate audit services for multinational corporations and large enterprises, domestic firms serve a large portion of Chinese companies, especially state-owned enterprises and private businesses growing in China's domestic market. Several Chinese accounting firms have gone public in recent years, including Beijing Changcheng Kexin Certified Public Accountants Co., Ltd. (stock code: 002939) and Zhejiang Tianheng Certified Public Accountants Co., Ltd. (stock code: 835525).

Recent Trends and Outlook

What are the recent trends and outlook?

Recent trends include increased digitization and adoption of AI in accounting services, greater focus on sustainability reporting, and adapting to regulatory changes in China's evolving business environment. The industry is also responding to growing demand for ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) reporting services. China's economic transition toward higher-value industries and increased focus on corporate governance is expected to drive continued demand for professional accounting and auditing services in the coming years.

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Regulation

How is the industry regulated?

The industry is regulated primarily by the China Institute of Certified Public Accountants (CICPA) under the Ministry of Finance, which sets professional standards, conducts examinations, and oversees licensing. Chinese accounting standards are converging with international standards, with full adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) for many listed companies. The Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC) and other regulatory bodies also play roles in regulating auditing practices for listed companies and financial institutions.

Sources

Government, statistical and trade sources used for this Claight analysis.

  • China Institute of Certified Public Accountants (CICPA) ·
  • Ministry of Finance of China ·
  • National Bureau of Statistics of China ·
  • China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC) ·
  • State Administration of Taxation of China

Claight analysis of public industry data.