Missouri AG expands investigation into Chinese service center for violations

Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey has expanded his investigation into the Chinese Service Center in St. Louis to ensure it complies with Missouri law. He issued a civil investigative order (CID) after his office received evidence that the service center violated the Missouri Merchandising Practices Act.

“As Attorney General, I will enforce the laws as written, which includes holding accountable those who violate the law by taking advantage of Missouri nonprofits,” said Attorney General Bailey. “Our investigation is focused on allegations that the Chinese Communist government is attempting to gain a foothold in the Show Me State. My office takes these allegations very seriously and will continue to fight for and protect Missouri citizens and consumers.”

The CID requests documentation of fundraising and other activities from the Chinese Service Center (CSC). The CSC reportedly has close ties to the government of the People’s Republic of China (PRC).

“This investigation will address, among other things, the acts and omissions of the individual(s) in connection with the solicitation and reporting of charitable funds in or from Missouri. The Attorney General has reason to believe that the individual(s) in question has committed, is committing, or intends to commit acts of deception, fraud, false promises, misrepresentation, dishonest practices, and/or the concealment, suppression, or omission of material facts in connection with the solicitation of charitable funds,” the CID said.

Attorney General Bailey originally launched this investigation in 2023 after a member of Missouri’s congressional delegation forwarded information to his office. This came after allegations surfaced that the People’s Republic of China was building a global network of “service centers” loyal to the Chinese Communist Party to advance China’s foreign policy goals. Independent sources estimate that there are over 100 such service centers worldwide. In addition to being used as an arm of the Chinese government, there are serious concerns that some centers have been used as outposts to target individuals who formerly lived in China.

After the CID is issued, Attorney General Bailey will subpoena documents that advance his investigation into alleged ties between the Chinese government, the Chinese Communist Party, and the nonprofit Chinese Service Center, which is organized under the laws of the state of Missouri.

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