I. Introduction The global legal landscape is rapidly evolving, driven by technological advancements and a growing demand for efficient dispute resolution. Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) has emerged as a significant trend, offering a digital alternative to traditional legal processes. China has embraced this shift with a revised Arbitration Law, effective March 1, 2026, explicitly codifying…
I. Introduction China’s legal landscape has historically favored institutional arbitration, a system where disputes are administered by established arbitration commissions. This preference for structured, supervised dispute resolution mechanisms has long been a defining characteristic of the People’s Republic of China’s (PRC) approach to commercial disagreements. However, a significant shift is underway with the recent amendments…
Abstract Using the recent closure of K&L Gates’ Beijing office as a case study, this article will analyze the continued exodus of major US and international law firms from China. It will critically examine the underlying economic, political, and regulatory factors driving this trend. The piece will offer a provocative argument about the future viability…
A Shifting Landscape for Non-Compete Agreements China’s employment law landscape is undergoing a significant transformation with new regulations impacting non-compete agreements. The Supreme People’s Court (SPC) Interpretation (II), effective August 1, 2025, and the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security (MHRSS) Guidelines, issued September 4, 2025, introduce heightened scrutiny and enhanced employee protection. These…
Abstract: This article will delve into the implications of the new real-name tax reporting rules for all exporters. It will analyze the increased compliance burden, particularly for the booming cross-border e-commerce sector. The piece will offer a critical perspective on how this change will affect supply chains and what proactive legal and tax planning strategies…
In a significant move to bolster foreign investment and streamline cross-border transactions, China’s State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE) unveiled a series of foreign exchange (FX) reforms in September 2025. These new rules, which took effect on September 15, 2025, have been met with a mixture of optimism and cautious analysis from the international business…
BEIJING – A seismic shift is underway in China’s cybersecurity landscape. As of November 1, 2025, a stringent new set of regulations will take effect, mandating that operators of critical information infrastructure (CII) report major cybersecurity incidents to authorities within a mere one-hour timeframe. This aggressive deadline, a stark departure from the more lenient reporting…
The September 2025 amendment to China’s Arbitration Law represents a significant step towards modernizing its dispute resolution framework and enhancing its appeal as an international arbitration hub. The reforms address several critical areas, aiming to align Chinese arbitration practices more closely with global standards. However, despite these advancements, certain challenges may persist, particularly for foreign…
I. Introduction The global legal services landscape is in a constant state of flux, driven by geopolitical shifts, technological advancements, and the relentless pursuit of new market opportunities. In this dynamic environment, the Asia-Pacific region has emerged as a pivotal arena for international commerce and, consequently, for legal services. For foreign law firms contemplating strategic…
I. Introduction: Navigating the Evolving China Legal Landscape China’s legal market is a dynamic and critical arena for global legal service providers. As the world’s second-largest economy, its integration into the global framework and unique regulatory environment demand sophisticated legal counsel. For foreign law firms, a presence in this pivotal market is a strategic imperative….