The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) is strengthening its presence in China following formal recognition as a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), alongside growing recognition of its professional qualifications across mainland China. 

CIOB’s NGO status, sponsored by the Shanghai Association of Science and Technology, enables the Institute to expand its work supporting construction professionals in China and provide greater access to internationally recognised professional standards and qualifications. 

The development builds on the growing recognition of CIOB’s professional qualifications by Chinese governmental authorities. 

On 11 September 2026, the Beijing Municipal Human Resources and Social Security Bureau released the Beijing International Professional Qualifications Recognition Catalogue (2026 Edition). 

CIOB’s FCIOB, MCIOB and TechCIOB qualifications are listed as Items 40–42 under the Catalogue’s ‘Construction and Engineering Services’ category. The 2026 edition is the first Beijing catalogue to include all three CIOB qualifications.  

CIOB’s professional qualifications have also been included in overseas professional qualification recognition catalogues covering Guangzhou, Chongqing, the Hainan Free Trade Port and Jiangsu Province, with recognition frameworks introduced between 2023 and 2025. 

With CIOB qualifications now recognised in several major regions, the Institute is building a growing profile across mainland China. Beijing’s decision to recognise FCIOB, MCIOB and TechCIOB marks the latest step in that progress.  

Dr Victoria Hills, CEO at CIOB, said: “China has always been a very important part of the global construction community, and this recognition represents an important milestone for CIOB. Our vision is to support construction professionals in China with the knowledge, resources and internationally recognised qualifications needed to demonstrate high standards of competence and ethical practice. 

“Professional standards such as quality, safety, sustainability and ethical behaviour are universal. By making our resources more accessible in Chinese and creating new opportunities for professionals to connect with CIOB, we look forward to supporting the development of China’s construction sector. As part of our As we look forward to growing our presence in China, we will support professionals to attain TechCIOB, MCIOB and FCIOB status, helping them demonstrate competence, professionalism and a commitment to ethical practice when working in China and in international markets.” 

Chinese-language resources will include technical information sheets, best-practice guidance and continuing professional development (CPD) materials covering ethical behaviour, sustainability, quality and safety, innovation and technology, and diversity and inclusion. 

Construction professionals holding CIOB qualifications will also have opportunities to engage with the Institute through speaking, networking and professional development activities. 

CIOB has a dedicated website and WeChat channel for construction professionals in China, providing access to CIOB information, resources, CPD opportunities and updates in Chinese.