Recent announcements from Beijing regarding the relaxation of foreign exchange (FX) controls have sent ripples of excitement through the global investment community. For those eyeing China’s vast real estate market, the news seems to signal a new era of opportunity. However, seasoned investors and legal experts caution that navigating this evolving landscape requires more than…
In 2024, a significant shift reverberated through China’s legal landscape: over 65% of its top law firms reported a decline in revenue. This stark statistic signals more than just a temporary setback; it heralds a profound transformation within the Chinese legal market. This financial pressure, driven by a complex interplay of a decelerating national economy…
I. Introduction Imagine a multinational corporation (MNC) with its headquarters in New York and a significant European subsidiary. One day, a sophisticated cyberattack breaches the European entity’s systems, compromising sensitive customer data. As the incident response team scrambles to contain the damage and comply with local data protection regulations like GDPR, an unexpected complication arises:…
Abstract This article analyzes the unification of legal grounds for setting aside and resisting enforcement of arbitral awards in new arbitration laws. It explores the intended benefits of consistency and predictability within international arbitration. However, it also critically questions whether this unification removes a valuable second layer of judicial scrutiny and potentially weakens award finality,…
Introduction The global arbitration landscape is continuously evolving, with jurisdictions refining legal frameworks to enhance efficiency. China, a key player in international dispute resolution, has recently enacted a significant amendment to its Arbitration Law, effective March 1, 2026. This revision notably reduces the time limit for applying to set aside an arbitral award from six…
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…