What is the ruling on growing a beard in China if a Muslim fears persecution because of it?

It is permissible to shave the beard if letting it grow leads to severe harm that is ordinarily unbearable, in which case it falls under the ruling of duress. However, if the harm is bearable, such as annoyances or ridicule, then it is not permissible to shave it, and one must be patient with it, because adherence to religion may entail some harm.