According to Chinese publication People Daily, the iPhone 4S has gained the necessary approvals from local authorities to sell the iPhone 4S in China:
After obtaining the network entry permit from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of China (MIIT), the iPhone 4S received China Compulsory Certification (3C) for electronic products on Dec. 22, meaning that it has met all the requirements for coming into markets of China.
According to latest information from iPhone distributors, the iPhone 4S is expected to hit the market at the beginning of January 2012.
If that holds true, the iPhone 4S will be available in the country before Chinese new year.