A foreign-funded research and development center is an institution established within China in accordance with the laws of China; it receives complete or partial financial backing from (a) foreign investor(s) whose primary business operations are conducted overseas, with its operation scope covering the research, development, and experimental endeavors (this encompasses intermediate testing that bolsters its research and development efforts) within scientific and technological domains, specifically in natural sciences and related fields.

The accreditation of foreign-funded research and development centers is under the joint leadership of Beijing Municipal Science and Technology Commission, the Administrative Commission of Zhongguancun Science Park, and Beijing Municipal Commerce Bureau, which work in close coordination with relevant departments.