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SCIA Enhances Global Collaboration for Chinese Enterprises

As the international influence of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area continues to rise, the Shenzhen Court of International Arbitration (SCIA) is taking significant steps to bolster the global ambitions of Chinese businesses. A recent dialogue held in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province on February 12, brought together SCIA council members from Hong Kong, Macao, and abroad, as well as over fifty representatives from major Chinese enterprises. The discussions highlighted the increasing importance of international arbitration in facilitating trade, investment, finance, and maritime commerce.

During the event, Liu Xiaochun, the president of the SCIA and executive chairman of the South China International Arbitration Center (Hong Kong), emphasized the need for a stable and transparent international business environment. He pointed out the necessity to leverage international rules alongside the strengths of Hong Kong and Macao to safeguard the interests of Chinese enterprises operating globally. Liu stated, "We need to build a stable, transparent, fair, and predictable market-oriented, rule-of-law and international business environment."

The SCIA's framework operates under the principle of 'one country, two systems and three legal jurisdictions'. This alignment allows it to integrate the legal rules of Hong Kong and Macao, simplifying business processes in dominant common law jurisdictions as well as Portuguese-speaking nations. Liu mentioned that while Hong Kong connects SCIA to common law countries, Macao's unique legal system enhances links to Portuguese and Spanish-speaking regions. This collaborative environment fosters professional and transparent mechanisms for dispute resolution, which is essential for Chinese enterprises expanding their global reach.

Roberto Azevêdo, a council member of SCIA and former director-general of the World Trade Organization, echoed the sentiments on the significance of international dispute resolution mechanisms in maintaining stability within global trade relations. He assured that SCIA plays a critical role in upholding effective systems that address international commercial disputes.

SCIA's vice-chairman, Anthony Neoh, highlighted the diversity and international composition of the SCIA council. This inclusion of experts from China, Hong Kong, and Macao strengthens confidence in the arbitration process. Neoh noted the inherent integration between judicial institutions in Shenzhen, Hong Kong, and Macao, stating, "The courts and arbitration institutions across these three regions are organically integrated, enhancing confidence in our legal and arbitration systems."

To adapt to the evolving demands of enterprises in both domestic and global markets, SCIA is committed to furthering its international growth. In 2024, it successfully managed a record 14,518 commercial arbitration cases, with total disputes amounting to approximately 142.27 billion yuan (around $19.67 billion). This achievement has secured SCIA a position among the top three arbitration institutions worldwide.

Notably, the number of new international commercial arbitration cases surged to 520 in the same year, marking a 25.6% increase year-over-year. Furthermore, SCIA's geographical reach expanded significantly, servicing clients from 64 countries and regions—an impressive 45% increase from the previous year. Cumulatively, SCIA has catered to parties from 142 nations and regions, with 733 of its 2,087 arbitrators being international experts, representing 35.12% of the total.

Overall, the SCIA's efforts are indicative of a broader strategy to reinforce and support Chinese enterprises in navigating the complexities of global commerce, ensuring they are equipped with the necessary resources to manage risks and facilitate seamless operations.