Forex trading is illegal for individuals residing in Mainland China. However institutional traders can use international broker to trade Forex and CFD instruments with 1:1 leverage.
Based on the current domestic laws, individual traders can only engage in Forex trading via Qualified Domestic Institutional Investor (QDII) Funds, Hong Kong Brokerage Accounts, Currency-based ETFs and Mutual Funds. Here are the best brokers for institutional traders.
![]() | VT Markets | |||
![]() | Go Markets | |||
![]() | PrimeXBT | |||
| 4 | ![]() | Ultima Markets | ||
| 5 | ![]() | Switch Markets | ||
| 6 | ![]() | JustMarkets | ||
| 7 | ![]() | Blackbull Markets | ||
| 8 | ![]() | easyMarkets | ||
| 9 | ![]() | Exness | ||
| 10 | ![]() | Libertex |
Trustpilot Ratings of Forex Brokers in China
Here are the trust scores of the best brokers in China.
Broker | Trustpilot Rating | Number of Reviews |
Exness | 4.8/5⭐️ | +25500 |
Blackbull Markets | 4.8/5⭐️ | +2500 |
Switch Markets | 4.7/5⭐️ | +800 |
Go Markets | 4.5/5⭐️ | +700 |
4.3/5⭐️ | +2000 | |
EasyMarkets | 4.2/5⭐️ | +1500 |
Libertex | 3.9/5⭐️ | +3500 |
3.8/5⭐️ | +300 | |
Ultima Markets | 3.7/5⭐️ | +300 |
3.6/5⭐️ | +3500 |
Minimum Spreads of Forex Brokers in China
Traders must consider the spreads as it is the main trading costs they must pay in any broker. Here are the minimum spreads in the best brokers for Chinese traders.
Brokers | Minimum Spreads |
From 0.0 Pips | |
Global Prime | From 0.0 Pips |
Pepperstone | From 0.0 Pips |
Fusion Markets | From 0.0 Pips |
From 0.0 Pips | |
Tickmill | From 0.0 Pips |
From 0.0 Pips | |
IC Markets | From 0.0 Pips |
XTB | From 0.1 Pips |
Capital.com | From 0.6 Pips |
Non-Trading Fees in Forex Brokers of China
The non-trading fees include deposit, withdrawal, and inactivity fee. Traders must choose a broker that offers low non-trading fees to keep the overall cost of trading minimum.
Broker | Deposit Fee | Withdrawal Fee | Inactivity Fee |
ICM.com | $0 | $0 | No |
$0 | $0 | No | |
VT Markets | $0 | Varies | No |
FP Markets | $0 | Varies | No |
AvaTrade | $0 | $0 | $10 |
XM Group | $0 | Varies | $10 |
Axi | $0 for up to $50,000 deposited | $0 for withdrawal over $50 | $10 |
IG Markets | $0 | Varies | £12 |
$0 | $0 | $25 | |
FXCM | $0 | Varies | $50 |
Number of Tradable Instruments in Forex Brokers of China
Having access to various markets, including Forex, commodities, cryptocurrencies, indices, and stocks allow traders to gain exposure in various markets and diversify their portfolio.
Broker | Number of Tradable Assets |
D Prime | +10000 |
ActivTrades | +1000 |
FXTM | +700 |
FBS | +550 |
Prime XBT | +300 |
+300 | |
EasyMarkets | +300 |
OctaFX | +300 |
+250 | |
Exness | +200 |
Top 8 Forex Brokers in China
The following paragraphs are detailed reviews of the best Forex brokers available to the Chinese traders. While strict trading laws will confine traders from using some of the best options, there are still various ways that can be used to cross them.
VT Markets
VT Markets operates as a multi-asset online brokerage serving global traders across Forex, Indices, CFDs on Shares, Metals, Energies, ETFs, Bonds, Soft Commodities, and Cryptocurrencies.

The broker supports more than 1,000 tradable instruments and processes over 30 million transactions monthly for a client base exceeding 400,000 active traders.
From an infrastructure standpoint, VT Markets offers Standard STP, RAW ECN, Cent STP, and Cent ECN accounts, alongside copy trading and PAMM investment modules, enabling both discretionary and managed trading models for all user who complete the VT Markets registration.
Core trading environments are built around MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, Webtrader+ (TradingView powered), and a proprietary VT Markets mobile application all available to download in the VT Markets dashboard.
Regulatory oversight spans multiple jurisdictions through ASIC (Australia), FSCA (South Africa), and FSC Mauritius, establishing a layered compliance framework.
Client funds operate under segregation policies, and negative balance protection applies to most non-ASIC entities after VT Markets verification. Leverage availability reaches up to 1:500, with trading costs structured via spread-based STP and commission-based ECN models.
Operational services include diversified funding methods, integrated KYC onboarding, analytical resources, educational content, and continuous client support during trading sessions.
Account Types | Standard STP, RAW ECN, Cent STP, Cent ECN, Demo |
Regulating Authorities | ASIC Australia, FSCA South Africa, FSC Mauritius |
Minimum Deposit | $50 |
Deposit Methods | Credit Debit Cards, Bank Wire Transfer, Skrill, Neteller, UnionPay, Fasapay |
Withdrawal Methods | Credit Debit Cards, Bank Wire Transfer, Skrill, Neteller, UnionPay, Fasapay |
Maximum Leverage | 1:500 |
Trading Platforms & Apps | MetaTrader 4 MT4, MetaTrader 5 MT5, Webtrader+ powered by TradingView, VT Markets Mobile App |
VT Markets Pros and Cons
The following table allows traders to compare the pros and cons of VT Markets before joining this broker.
Pros | Cons |
Multiple account structures: Standard STP, RAW ECN, Cent STP, Cent ECN | Swap rates are moderate to high, making long-term holding less cost-efficient |
Support for MetaTrader 4 (MT4), MetaTrader 5 (MT5), Webtrader+ TradingView, and proprietary VT Markets App | No 24/7 customer support, services limited to 24/5 |
Low minimum deposit starting from $50 | Withdrawal fees apply depending on payment method and client region |
Maximum leverage up to 1:500 for eligible jurisdictions | - |
Ultima Markets
Founded in 2016, Ultima Markets operates as a multi-asset brokerage delivering access to more than 250+ instruments across Forex, Stocks, Commodities, and Indices.

The broker structures its trading environment through Standard, ECN, Standard Cent, ECN Cent, and Demo accounts, with a notably low entry threshold of $50.
Trading conditions accommodate diverse strategies via leverage up to 1:2000, spread from 0.0 pips on ECN, and zero commission on Standard accounts. Trading costs can be lowered up to $5 per lot by using Ultima Markets rebates.
Regulatory supervision is maintained under CySEC (CIF 426/23) and FSC Mauritius (GB 23201593), complemented by segregated client fund custody to enhance capital protection.
Execution is delivered on MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and a proprietary mobile platform, integrating analytical utilities such as Trading Central, an economic calendar, trading calculators, and VPS services.
Portfolio management extends beyond direct trading through PAMM, MAM, and copy trading connectivity on UMSocial and Myfxbook.
The brokerage supports continuous operations via 24/7 client service, diversified funding methods including cards, e-payments, crypto, and bank transfers after completing the Ultima Markets registration.
Account Types | Demo, Standard, ECN, Standard Cent, ECN Cent |
Regulating Authorities | CySEC Cyprus CIF 426/23, FSC Mauritius GB 23201593 |
Minimum Deposit | $50 |
Deposit Methods | Credit Debit Cards, E Payment Systems, Cryptocurrencies, Bank Transfer |
Withdrawal Methods | Credit Debit Cards, E Payment Systems, Cryptocurrencies, Bank Transfer |
Maximum Leverage | 1:2000 |
Trading Platforms & Apps | MetaTrader 4 (MT4), MetaTrader 5 (MT5), Ultima Markets Proprietary Platform, Ultima Markets Mobile App |
Pros and Cons of Ultima Markets
Traders must consider the following pros and cons before opening an account with the Ultima Markets broker.
Pros | Cons |
High maximum leverage up to 1:2000 | Bank transfer withdrawal fee of $20 applies after the first free transaction |
Low minimum deposit starting from $50 | Limited transparency regarding full list of restricted countries |
Spread from 0.0 pips on ECN accounts | Lower TrustScore on ScamAdviser rated 46/100 |
Zero commission on Standard accounts | Some client reports of unstable Live Chat functionality |
Switch Markets
Established in 2019, Switch Markets operates as a global online brokerage delivering access to more than 1,000 tradable instruments across Forex, Commodities, Indices, Cryptocurrencies, Shares, and ETFs.

The broker structures its services around Standard and Pro accounts, supplemented by Demo and Islamic accounts, enabling participation from both retail and algorithmic traders.
Entry requirements remain relatively accessible with a minimum deposit of €48, leverage availability reaching 1:1000, floating spreads from 0.0 pips on Pro accounts, and commission starting at $3.5.
Execution infrastructure is delivered via MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5, supported across desktop, web, and mobile devices. Traders can download these platforms straight from the Switch Markets dashboard.
Trading operations integrate essential tools such as a Forex calculator, economic calendar, and risk management utilities, alongside algo trading, social trading, and PAMM functionality available for all traders who complete the Switch Markets registration.
From a regulatory perspective, operations are currently maintained under SVGFSA through Royal ETP LLC, with client funds held in segregated bank accounts and negative balance protection applied.
Switch Markets deposit and withdrawals accommodate a broad spectrum of methods, including bank wire, Visa, MasterCard, PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, UnionPay, Fasapay, and multiple cryptocurrencies, supported by continuous client service channels.Top of FormBottom of Form
Account Types | Standard, Pro, Demo, Islamic |
Regulating Authorities | SVGFSA (St. Vincent and the Grenadines Financial Services Authority) |
Minimum Deposit | €48 |
Deposit Methods | Visa, MasterCard, Bank Wire, PayPal, Neteller, Skrill, UnionPay, Fasapay, GlobePay, NganLuong, PayTrust, Cryptocurrencies |
Withdrawal Methods | Visa, MasterCard, Bank Wire, PayPal, Neteller, Skrill, UnionPay, Fasapay, GlobePay, NganLuong, PayTrust, Cryptocurrencies |
Maximum Leverage | 1:1000 |
Trading Platforms & Apps | MetaTrader 4 MT4, MetaTrader 5 MT5, Web, Android App, iOS App |
Switch Markets Pros and Cons
Traders must check the table below to become aware of the benefits and limitations of trading with the Switch Markets broker.
Pros | Cons |
Access to over 1,000 tradable instruments across Forex, Commodities, Indices, Crypto, Shares, and ETFs | No Tier-1 regulatory supervision; primary oversight under SVGFSA (St. Vincent and the Grenadines) |
Competitive Pro account pricing with spreads from 0.0 pips and $3.5 commission | ASIC license previously held by SWITCH MARKETS PTY LTD has been revoked |
High leverage availability up to 1:1000 | Standard account spreads start from 1.4 pips, higher than Pro account |
Supports MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5 across desktop, web, and mobile | - |
Go Markets
Operating since 2006, GO Markets functions as a multi-jurisdiction CFD brokerage with core regulation under ASIC, CySEC, FSC Mauritius, and FSA Seychelles.

The firm provides access to contracts across Forex, Shares, Indices, Commodities, Metals, Cryptocurrencies, ETFs, Bonds, and Treasury products, enabling diversified portfolio construction for retail and professional traders.
Account architecture is built around Standard and GO Plus+ models, complemented by Islamic, PAMM, Demo, and Copy Trading services. Traders can choose these services after completing the Go Markets registration.
Entry requirements begin at 100 EUR, with execution delivered via MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader, and browser-based GO WebTrader.
Trading conditions include variable spreads starting from 0.0 pips, commissions from $0, and leverage reaching 1:500 for eligible jurisdictions, alongside negative balance protection and segregated client funds.
Operational infrastructure supports instant execution, multi-currency funding, zero internal deposit and withdrawal fees, and institutional-grade liquidity.
The broker further integrates analytical tools, educational content, and automated trading compatibility, while maintaining 24/7 client service. Public trust metrics show a 4.6/5 Trustpilot rating based on more than 500 reviews, reflecting broad user engagement across global markets.
Trader who chose this broker can benefit from TradingFinder IB services and earn up to 15% Go Markets rebates on their trades.
Account Types | Standard, GO Plus+, Demo, Islamic, PAMM |
Regulating Authorities | ASIC Australia, CySEC Cyprus, FSC Mauritius, FSA Seychelles |
Minimum Deposit | 100 EUR |
Deposit Methods | Credit Debit Cards (Visa, MasterCard), Bank Transfer, E-wallets (Skrill, Neteller), PayPal, BPAY |
Withdrawal Methods | Credit Debit Cards, Bank Transfer, E-wallets (Skrill, Neteller), PayPal, BPAY |
Maximum Leverage | 1:500 |
Trading Platforms & Apps | MetaTrader 4 MT4, MetaTrader 5 MT5, cTrader, GO WebTrader, Android App, iOS App |
Go Markets Pros and Cons
Considerable advantages and disadvantages when choosing Go Markets as your broker.
Pros | Cons |
Multi-regulation coverage under ASIC Australia, CySEC Cyprus, FSC Mauritius, and FSA Seychelles | Higher minimum deposit at 100 EUR compared to many competitors |
Wide market access across Forex, Shares, Indices, Commodities, Metals, Crypto, ETFs, Bonds, and Treasury | Investment options limited mainly to Copy Trading and PAMM |
Advanced trading infrastructure with MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader, and GO WebTrader | Bonus and promotional programs not available due to regulatory restrictions |
Competitive pricing with spreads from 0.0 pips and commissions from $0 | - |
easyMarkets
Founded in 2001 and headquartered in Cyprus under the leadership of Nikos Antoniades, easyMarkets operates as a multi-jurisdiction CFD and derivatives brokerage serving retail and professional traders worldwide.

Regulatory supervision is maintained through CySEC, ASIC, FSCA, FSA Seychelles, and FSC BVI, with client funds protected via segregation and negative balance protection across all entities.
Trading access spans more than 200 instruments across Forex, Indices, Shares, Metals, Commodities, Cryptocurrencies, and Options, delivered through MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, TradingView, and a proprietary easyMarkets Web/App platform.
Pricing remains commission-free, with fixed and variable spreads, minimum deposits from $25, and leverage reaching 1:2000 under eligible jurisdictions after all easyMarkets registration.
Distinctive execution features include dealCancellation, Freeze Rate, and Guaranteed Stop Loss, offering enhanced trade control during volatile conditions.
Account structures support Islamic (swap-free) participation, with professional tiers allowing leverage up to 1:500 subject to qualification.
Operational services integrate multilingual 24/5 support, extensive educational content, automated risk tools, and diverse funding channels including VISA, MasterCard, Bank Wire, Skrill, Neteller, and fast local transfers.
User confidence is reflected in sustained public ratings, including 4.5/5 on Trustpilot and 4.7/5 on TradingView.
Account Types | VIP, Standard, Demo, MT5 |
Regulating Authorities | CySEC Cyprus, ASIC Australia, FSCA South Africa, FSA Seychelles, FSC BVI |
Minimum Deposit | $25 |
Deposit Methods | VISA, MasterCard, Maestro, Bank Wire, Local Bank Transfer, Skrill, Neteller |
Withdrawal Methods | VISA, MasterCard, Maestro, Bank Wire, Local Bank Transfer, Skrill, Neteller |
Maximum Leverage | 1:2000 |
Trading Platforms & Apps | easyMarkets Proprietary Platform, MetaTrader 4 MT4, MetaTrader 5 MT5, TradingView, Web, Android App, iOS App |
Pros and Cons of easyMarkets
The table below offers insights on the easyMarkets advantages and disadvantages.
Pros | Cons |
Advanced risk controls: Guaranteed Stop Loss, dealCancellation, Freeze Rate | Customer support not available 24/7, operates 24/5 |
High leverage availability up to 1:2000 for eligible entities | No Copy Trading or PAMM investment services |
Broad platform support: Proprietary Platform, MT4, MT5, TradingView | Withdrawal fee of 10% applies if trading volume conditions are not met |
Strong client protection: segregated funds and negative balance protection | - |
Libertex
Established in 1997, Libertex operates as a long-standing fintech brokerage serving more than 3 million clients across 120+ countries, functioning under the Libertex Group.
Client protection mechanisms include segregated accounts, negative balance protection, and participation in the Investor Compensation Fund (ICF) with coverage up to €20,000.
Trading access spans over 300 instruments across Forex, Cryptocurrencies, Commodities, Stocks, Indices, ETFs, Bonds, and Options.
Account structures include Real, Invest, MT4, MT5, and Demo, supporting for all traders who complete the Libertex registration. Execution is available via Market and Instant models, with leverage reaching 1:30 for retail and up to 1:600 for professional clients.
The trading ecosystem integrates MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and a proprietary web-based platform with features such as Auto-Trading, Economic Calendar, and Quick Take Profit available in the Libertex dashboard.
Libertex deposit and withdrawal methods cover bank cards, wire transfers, and e-wallets, while copy trading services expand portfolio participation options.
Public feedback reflects sustained engagement, including a 4/5 Trustpilot rating based on over 2,200 reviews.
Account Types | Demo, Real, Invest, MT4, MT5 |
Regulating Authorities | CySEC Cyprus (CIF 164/12) |
Minimum Deposit | 100 EUR |
Deposit Methods | Credit Debit Cards (Visa, MasterCard), Bank Wire Transfer, E-wallets (PayPal, Skrill, Neteller), SEPA |
Withdrawal Methods | Credit Debit Cards, Bank Wire Transfer, E-wallets (PayPal, Skrill, Neteller) |
Maximum Leverage | 1:30 Retail, up to 1:600 Professional |
Trading Platforms & Apps | MetaTrader 4 MT4, MetaTrader 5 MT5, Libertex Proprietary Platform, Web, Android App, iOS App |
Libertex Pros and Cons
Considerable benefits and drawbacks of trading with the Libertex broker.
Pros | Cons |
Tier-1 regulation under CySEC (CIF 164/12) with ICF protection up to €20,000 | Not available in several major regions including United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Russia, Iran, North Korea |
Broad market access across Forex, Crypto, Commodities, Stocks, Indices, ETFs, Bonds, Options | Inactivity fee of 10 EUR/month after 180 days |
Advanced trading environments: MT4, MT5, Libertex Proprietary Platform | Educational resources relatively limited compared to large multi-asset brokers |
Leverage up to 1:600 for professional clients | - |
JustMarkets
Established in 2012, JustMarkets operates as a global CFD brokerage serving more than 2 million traders across 160+ countries, with headquarters in Mahe, Seychelles.
The broker maintains multi-jurisdiction regulation through CySEC, FSCA, FSA Seychelles, and FSC, enabling regional compliance across EU and non-EU entities. All entities require traders to complete the JustMarkets verification.
Client protection standards include segregated funds, negative balance protection, bank-grade encryption, and PCI DSS data security protocols.
The trading environment spans Forex, Commodities, Indices, Stocks, and Cryptocurrencies, covering over 90 instruments.
Account structures comprise Standard Cent, Standard, Pro, and Raw Spread, with position sizes from 0.01 lots, minimum deposit starting at $10, and leverage reaching 1:3000 for eligible jurisdictions.
Execution follows a market execution model with floating spreads from 0.0 pips, while Raw Spread accounts apply a commission of $3 per side per lot.
Trading access is delivered via MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and proprietary mobile applications. Supplementary services include JustMarkets copy trading, VPS hosting, economic calendar, trading signals, and multilingual 24/7 client support available in the JustMarkets dashboard.
Public feedback reflects broad participation, with a Trustpilot score of 4.3/5 based on extensive user reviews.
Account Types | Standard Cent, Standard, Pro, Raw Spread |
Regulating Authorities | CySEC Cyprus, FSCA South Africa, FSA Seychelles, FSC Mauritius, FSC British Virgin Islands |
Minimum Deposit | From $10 |
Deposit Methods | Bank Transfer, Credit Debit Cards, E-payments (Skrill, Neteller, Perfect Money), Cryptocurrencies, Local Banks |
Withdrawal Methods | Bank Transfer, Credit Debit Cards, E-payments (Skrill, Neteller, Perfect Money), Cryptocurrencies, Local Banks |
Maximum Leverage | Up to 1:3000 |
Trading Platforms & Apps | MetaTrader 4 MT4, MetaTrader 5 MT5, JustMarkets Mobile App, Web, Android App, iOS App |
JustMarkets Pros and Cons
The following table provides a complete list of the pros and cons of trading with the JustMarkets broker.
Pros | Cons |
Multi-regulation under CySEC, FSCA, FSA Seychelles, FSC Mauritius, FSC BVI | Limited number of tradable instruments compared with large multi-asset brokers |
Very low entry seen with minimum deposit from $10 | Technical glitches reported by some users on trading platforms |
High leverage availability up to 1:3000 for eligible entities | No PAMM investment accounts available |
Competitive pricing with spreads from 0.0 pips on Raw Spread accounts | - |
PrimeXBT
Launched in 2018, PrimeXBT has developed into a multi-asset trading platform serving more than 1 million clients globally, supported by a compensation framework of up to $20,000 per user.
The broker operates through a distributed regulatory structure that includes oversight by the FS of Seychelles (SD162), Lithuania FCIS (306038128), FSCA South Africa, Banco Central de Reserva and the FSC of Mauritius, allowing broad international participation.
PrimeXBT provides access to Forex, over 100 CFD instruments, Cryptocurrencies, and Crypto Futures, with trading executed via a proprietary WebTrader, Mobile App, and MetaTrader 5 through its regulated partner PXBT Trading Ltd.
Account structures include Standard and Demo, featuring leverage up to 1:1000, spreads from 0.1 pips, zero commission on most products, and crypto futures maker and taker fees of 0.01% and from 0.02%.
Additional services include Copy Trading with profit-sharing models, seasonal promotional programs, multi-channel 24/7 client support, and a comprehensive research and education suite. Features are available after completing the PrimeXBT registration.
Public trust metrics remain favorable, including a TrustPilot rating of 4.2/5 based on verified user feedback.
Account Types | Standard, Demo |
Regulating Authorities | FSA Seychelles, Lithuania FCIS, FSCA South Africa, Banco Central de Reserva ,FSC Mauritius |
Minimum Deposit | $15 |
Deposit Methods | Credit Debit Cards (Visa, MasterCard), Bank Wire Transfer, E-wallets (Perfect Money, Volet, Binance Pay), Cryptocurrencies |
Withdrawal Methods | Credit Debit Cards, E-wallets, Bank Cards, Cryptocurrencies |
Maximum Leverage | Up to 1:1000 |
Trading Platforms & Apps | PrimeXBT WebTrader, Proprietary Mobile App (Android, iOS), MetaTrader 5 via PXBT Trading Ltd |
Pros and Cons of PrimeXBT
The following table contains considerable benefits and limitations of using PrimeXBT.
Pros | Cons |
Very low entry barrier with minimum deposit from $15 | No tier-1 regulatory authority such as FCA or ASIC |
Access to Forex, 100+ CFDs, Cryptocurrencies, and Crypto Futures on one platform | Limited account structure with Standard and Demo only |
High leverage availability up to 1:1000 | Crypto withdrawals subject to blockchain network fees |
Copy Trading with profit sharing up to 75 percent for followers | - |
Is Forex Trading Legal in China?
Forex trading in China exists within a strictly controlled financial framework shaped by national capital-control policy and currency management law.
While foreign exchange activity is not completely prohibited, retail forex speculation with leverage is illegal for mainland residents. The regulatory structure is enforced primarily by the People’s Bank of China (PBOC) and the State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE), which together supervise currency flows, exchange quotas, and cross-border transactions.
For individuals, legal participation is limited to currency conversion through domestic banks, capped at USD 50,000 per year, and intended for non-investment purposes such as travel, education, and overseas payments.
Corporate entities engaged in international trade may access spot FX and hedging instruments via approved financial institutions. Institutional participants operate within the China Foreign Exchange Trade System (CFETS), the country’s official interbank FX marketplace.
Retail margin trading, offshore brokers, and leveraged speculation are prohibited. Access to unlicensed platforms is actively blocked, and violations of foreign exchange controls can trigger account investigations or asset freezes by SAFE.

This regulatory structure prioritizes financial stability, currency control, and systemic risk management.
Activity Type | Legal Status | Supervisory Body |
Retail leveraged forex trading | Prohibited | SAFE, PBOC |
Personal currency exchange | Permitted within USD 50,000 annual quota | SAFE |
Corporate FX hedging and spot trades | Permitted via licensed institutions | PBOC, SAFE |
Interbank FX trading (CFETS) | Fully regulated | PBOC, SAFE |
How Can I Legally Trade Forex and CFDs in China?
In mainland China, individual participation in the global Forex and Contract for Difference markets is governed by strict financial regulations and capital control policies.
Participation must occur through regulated and compliant investment channels that align with domestic foreign exchange laws.
Several lawful pathways are available for individuals seeking currency exposure and global market participation:
- Qualified Domestic Institutional Investor (QDII) Funds: Regulated investment firms that allow Chinese investors to access overseas equities, bonds, commodities, and international financial instruments through approved domestic institutions;
- Hong Kong Brokerage Accounts: Accounts opened under permitted quota frameworks or corporate arrangements that provide access to a wider range of financial products, including forex-related instruments, while remaining subject to mainland regulatory supervision;
- Currency-based ETFs and Mutual Funds: Domestic investment funds that track foreign exchange performance, offering indirect exposure to currency movements without engaging in prohibited retail forex trading.

Which Financial Authority Regulates Forex Brokers in China?
China’s approach to foreign exchange trading is defined by a centralized regulatory framework designed to protect monetary stability and manage systemic risk.
Although forex trading as a financial activity is not inherently prohibited, the Chinese government enforces strict controls over how individuals and institutions may participate in the market.
Oversight of this structure is primarily exercised by the People’s Bank of China (PBOC), which directs monetary policy and manages the value of the yuan (CNY), and the State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE), which supervises capital flows and currency conversions.
Both of these authorities are among Tier-2 regulators based on TF scores.
Retail participation in leveraged or speculative forex trading remains restricted due to capital control policies, concerns over currency volatility, and historical exposure to financial fraud.
The yuan operates under a managed exchange-rate regime rather than a fully free-floating system, and unregulated speculation could disrupt this framework.
For this reason, individual access to foreign currencies is limited to regulated banking channels, with defined annual conversion thresholds, while companies engaged in international trade may execute spot transactions and hedging strategies through licensed institutions.
China also permits institutional trading within the China Foreign Exchange Trade System (CFETS), the official interbank FX marketplace. This model allows international engagement while maintaining domestic financial security.
What is the Forex Trading Tax for Corporations in China?
For companies engaged in forex trading activities connected to China, tax obligations depend on their residency status under Chinese tax law.
Resident enterprises, meaning entities incorporated in China or effectively managed within the country, must include all forex-related profits in their taxable income and are subject to the standard Enterprise Income Tax (EIT) rate of 25%.
In contrast, non-resident enterprises that generate China-sourced income from forex or related capital gains, but do not maintain a permanent establishment in China, are typically subject to a withholding tax of 10% on qualifying income.
This rate may be reduced when an applicable double taxation treaty is in effect. The main authority that requires formal tax forms in China is the State Taxation Office.
These rules ensure that both domestic and foreign corporate participants in China’s forex ecosystem are integrated into the national tax framework in accordance with established international taxation principles.

What is the Maximum Trading Leverage in China?
The maximum trading leverage in China is capped at 1:1 for institutions and Corporations. As discussed earlier, trading Forex is strictly prohibited for individuals.
How to Choose a Forex broker in China
To choose a safe and secure Forex broker in China, traders must consider the following essential criteria.

Regulation and Fund Security
Broker credibility begins with regulation. Traders should verify that a broker operates under recognized financial authorities such as Tier-1 or Tier-2 regulators, and that the broker maintains legal authorization for international operations affecting Chinese clients.
Proper regulation improves transparency, client fund protection, and compliance with global financial standards.
Trading Costs and Pricing Structure
Trading expenses directly affect long-term performance. Brokers should be evaluated based on spread competitiveness, commission transparency, and overall pricing consistency.
Lower execution costs allow more efficient participation in forex markets, particularly for active traders.
Trading Platforms
Platform quality defines the trading experience. Reputable brokers provide access to advanced platforms such as MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and TradingView, offering professional charting tools, technical indicators, execution stability, and automated trading capabilities.
Account Types
Account selection should reflect trading objectives and experience level. Many brokers provide entry-level accounts such as Cent or Demo accounts for beginners, alongside ECN accounts designed for experienced traders seeking tighter pricing and direct market access.
Deposit and Withdrawal
A broker’s financial infrastructure must support efficient capital movement. Traders should confirm that deposit and withdrawal methods are reliable, cost-effective, and compatible with China-based banking systems.
Customer Support and Service Quality
Operational support remains a critical factor. Strong brokers maintain responsive, multilingual customer service, ideally with 24/7 availability, ensuring effective communication and timely issue resolution.
Forex Trading in China Compared to Other Countries
China operates under one of the most restrictive forex regulatory systems in the world.
Unlike many global markets where individuals can freely access offshore brokers and leveraged trading, China strictly limits retail participation and enforces heavy capital controls through the People’s Bank of China and the State Administration of Foreign Exchange.
In comparison, regions such as the EU, UK, and Australia provide significantly more flexibility, broader broker access, and more open trading conditions. The table below offers a deeper insight on that subject.
Comparison Factor | China | |||
Primary Regulator | People’s Bank of China (PBOC), State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE) | Financial Regulatory Authority (FRA) | Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC Thailand), Bank of Thailand | Japan Financial Services Agency (JFSA) |
Regulatory Framework | Strict capital controls; no legal retail leveraged forex trading; only institutional & regulated channels | No domestic retail forex licensing; offshore access common | National oversight; limited retail forex licensing | National regulation under FIEA |
Retail Leverage Cap Forex Majors | Retail leveraged forex trading prohibited for individuals | No local cap; broker-dependent | Not formally capped; broker-dependent | 1:25 |
Investor Protection Level | High for institutional / corporate; limited for individuals | Moderate; depends on broker regulation | Moderate | Very high |
Negative Balance Protection | Not applicable (no legal retail forex) | Not mandated; broker-dependent | Not enforced; broker-dependent | Structurally enforced |
Client Fund Segregation | Mandatory for licensed institutions and banks | Depends on broker’s regulator | Depends on broker regulation | Mandatory |
Broker Transparency Requirements | Strict for banks & institutions; retail brokers not licensed | Determined by offshore regulator | Formal licensing & disclosure | JFSA strict disclosure standards |
Broker Availability | No legal domestic retail forex brokers | International offshore brokers common | Local CMA/SEC entities & internationals | JFSA-licensed domestic brokers |
Access to International Brokers | Restricted for individuals | High | High | Limited; local entities required |
Typical Trading Platforms | Institutional trading systems; no retail MT4/MT5 access | MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView | MT4, MT5, cTrader | MT4, MT5, proprietary |
Maximum Loss Protection | Institutional risk controls; retail not applicable | Broker-dependent | Broker-dependent | Cannot exceed deposit |
Tax Treatment of Forex Profits | Corporate forex profits taxed under Enterprise Income Tax; individuals’ retail trading illegal | Potentially taxable as income | Taxed as personal income | Taxable as miscellaneous income |
Conclusion
Based on our review of the best Forex trading brokers in China, VT Markets, Go Markets, Libertex, JustMarkets, PrimeXBT, and easyMarkets are the best available options.
However, based on strict Mainland China laws, only institutional traders have access to these websites and can benefit from their services while operating under domestic laws.
“All brokers have been thoroughly evaluated based on the TradingFinder Forex methodology”














