you can renew your passport, and let them know, you are applying for a three years work permit (will be valid to 2012) and your passport is being expired in 2010. 1 n9 M5 q R4 g' M. D) J$ z8 c' m$ b. y
They will accepte this situation. Please be advised that Chinese Consulate General does not extend your passport, and they ONLY issue you a new one. It usually takes a month.