International Arbitration Guide

China - Hong Kong

Boase Cohen & Collins

Describe the international arbitration governing bodies/structure in your jurisdiction.

A strong regulatory regime and rule of law make Hong Kong a leading global arbitration venue. Hong Kong is also a party to the 1958 New York Convention on the Recognition and Enforcement of Foreign Arbitral Awards, so awards obtained in the city are enforceable in other signatory countries. The Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre is one of the world’s leading dispute resolution bodies and its facilities have been ranked first worldwide for location, value for money and IT services.

Describe any unique circumstances in your country that affect international arbitration (i.e., change in government, etc.).

China’s dramatic economic development has led to vast amounts of capital being invested in the country and Hong Kong is uniquely placed as the ideal conduit. Parties to disputes with Chinese elements often choose Hong Kong for arbitration due to its robust legislative framework, independent judiciary and free choice of legal representation. The Hong Kong and Mainland governments have in place a formal agreement which allows for the enforcement of Hong Kong awards in the Mainland.

Please provide a brief overview of your firms international arbitration capabilities (team members, experience as litigators in arbitration as well as experience as arbitrators).

Our team is led by Senior Partner Colin Cohen, who has vast experience in the highest levels of Hong Kong’s legal system. He is admitted as a Fellow of the Hong Kong Institute of Arbitrators and serves on the Panel of Arbitrators of the Law Society of Hong Kong. The team, which includes Partner Alex Liu and Senior Associate Arthur Chan, has considerable expertise handling commercial disputes. We have twice been named Dispute Resolution Boutique Law Firm of the Year at the Hong Kong Law Awards.

In which areas does your firm handle arbitration? (i.e., international investment, infrastructure, public works, energy, construction, etc.)

Civil disputes.

Which industries does your firm serve in this area (i.e., energy, insurance, public concessions, etc.)?

Contractual disputes, including commercial, employment and insurance.

Does your firm provide lawyer representation or certified arbitrator resources, or both? Please describe.

We provide experienced lawyers who will appear for hearings, conferences, preparation of submissions including, but not limited to: opening submissions and list of authorities, perusal of documents, all other preparation, advice and dealing with all matters relevant thereof. Our experience also extends to seeking recognition and enforcement of arbitration awards, seeking injunctive relief for clients and in enforcement proceedings as well as arbitration-related litigation.

Boase Cohen & Collins

Hong Kong

Rooms 2303-7 Dominion Centre
43-59 Queen’s Road East
Hong Kong, PRC
Tel +852 3416 1711