Hong Kong's judicial authorities announced plans on the 28th to establish the Hong Kong International Commercial Court. This specialized division under the High Court will handle complex, high-value international and cross-border commercial disputes. The judicial authorities noted that as Hong Kong's international and cross-border commercial activities expand, there is a growing demand for a dedicated court to address intricate legal and factual issues. Resolving such disputes requires both specialized judicial expertise and tailored trial procedures and operational norms to enhance flexibility and efficiency. The establishment of the Hong Kong International Commercial Court responds to these needs, upholding the core values and safeguards of Hong Kong's common law-based legal system. Cases will be heard by Hong Kong judges with extensive experience in commercial law. Under the existing legal framework, the court may also invite senior judges or legal practitioners from other common law jurisdictions to handle cases on a case-by-case basis. Where appropriate, the court will appoint adjudicators and experts to assist in cases involving specialized fields. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government expressed its welcome and support for the establishment of the Hong Kong International Commercial Court, stating that it marks a new milestone in the development of Hong Kong's rule of law system. Chief Executive John Lee pointed out that Hong Kong has consistently supported free trade and is the world's fifth-largest merchandise trading economy. The International Organization for Mediation, headquartered in Hong Kong, is already operational. Establishing the Hong Kong International Commercial Court will strengthen Hong Kong's core capabilities and advantages in international litigation, complementing its existing international arbitration and mediation services. This will provide global businesses and investors with diverse, comprehensive dispute resolution options, further enhancing the international competitiveness of Hong Kong's legal and dispute resolution services and advancing Hong Kong's international dispute resolution services to a higher level. Lee emphasized that Hong Kong is China's only jurisdiction operating under common law, and its commercial and trade laws align with international commercial rules, earning the trust of the international business community and investors. The establishment of the Hong Kong International Commercial Court demonstrates Hong Kong's unique advantage of leveraging its position as a gateway to mainland China while connecting with the world under the "one country, two systems" framework. It contributes new strength to the nation's high-level opening-up and further promotes the development of international commercial rules. Secretary for Justice Paul Lam stated that the Hong Kong International Commercial Court will deliver authoritative and convincing judgments through its internationally diverse bench of judges and efficient litigation procedures. Its case law will also contribute to the development of international commercial law, further solidifying the international reputation and status of Hong Kong's common law judicial system.
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