Most websites that charge fees need a license; selling your own goods without letting others set up shops doesn't, a site that matches up transactions needs a different kind of license, and a free site only needs a filing
- Moderate value
- Evidence A
- Keeps you free
- Costs a lot
- Takes time daily
- No willpower
In plain words
A website that takes money from users mostly has to get a value-added telecom business license (增值电信业务经营许可证) first, and an individual cannot apply for this license. If you only sell goods on your own site or app and do not let others open shops there, you don't need one. Neither do you if you only run a WeChat or Alipay mini program or an online store. If you should have one and don't, and you take money and open the site anyway, your income is confiscated, you are fined, and in serious cases the site is closed.
Mentioned in
Translated from the Chinese original. Original book, section 26, tip 2. This section describes legal rules, mostly mainland China’s. It is general information, not legal advice; for your own case, talk to a lawyer. Content may be out of date and rules differ by place. When you actually deal with an agency, a doctor or a court, follow what local officials, doctors and lawyers tell you. Disclaimer