Previously, China restricted the operation area of foreign-funded insurance providers in Shanghai & Guangzhou. On accession date (11/12/01), Shenzhen, Foshan and Dalian was no longer restricted to foreign insurance providers. After two years, foreign-funded insurance providers will be permitted to engage in business in Beijing, Chengdu, Chongqing, Suzhou, Xiamen, Ningbo, Shenyang, Wuhan and Tianjing. After three years, all geographic restrictions will be removed.