As part of Hong Kong Arbitration Week and in celebration of DVC’s 40th anniversary, the DVC International Arbitration Symposium 2024 concluded at the DVC Conference Centre on October 22.
Entitled “Bridging Horizons: Forging New Paths in Cross-Border Arbitration”,, we welcomed over 130 registrants and 38 esteemed speakers, who shared their expertise and insights into the complexities of international arbitration, thereby enhancing the understanding of current trends and challenges in the field.
Plenary Session
The symposium commenced with a Plenary Session entitled “Leadership Insights: Mastering Cross-Border Financial and Investment Disputes”,. Moderated by Winnie Tam SC, this session featured distinguished panelists including SHEN Tianfeng from the Lawyers Association of Zhejiang, Henry HUANG from the Shanghai Bar Association, and WANG Weijun from the Shanghai International Arbitration Center (SHIAC).
The panelists delved into leadership insights pertinent to cross-border dispute resolution, focusing on emerging trends in financial and investment arbitration, particularly regarding Chinese companies pursuing public offerings. They examined the practical implications of the Supreme People’s Court’s recent guidance on put options and redemption rights, and shared strategies for effectively navigating parallel litigation and arbitration.
Round Table Discussion 1
The first Round Table Discussion titled “Unleashing Synergies: Advancing Hong Kong-Mainland Collaboration in International Arbitration” brought together leading practitioners from both Hong Kong and Mainland China. The esteemed panel featured JI Nuo from Fangda Partners, FEI Ning from Hui Zhong Law Firm, Arthur Dong from JunHe LLP, CAO Lijun from Zhong Lun Law Firm LLP and DVC’s Dr. William WONG, S.C., Frances LOK SC, Catrina LAM and Jason YU.
This elite panel explored innovative strategies for fostering mutual support in international arbitration, highlighting collaborative approaches that leverage the unique strengths of both Mainland China and Hong Kong to enhance the resolution of cross-border disputes. Attendees benefited from the valuable insights and real-world experiences shared by these thought leaders, offering perspectives that have the potential to redefine the international arbitration landscape.
Round Table Discussion 2
Round table Discussion 2 titled “What Makes a Successful Arbitration: Perspectives from Across the Table (and Border)” featured a distinguished group of practitioners and arbitrators from Hong Kong, Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen. The session included insights from Mohan BHARWANEY SBS SC, Heidi LI from A&O Shearman, WANGZhengzhi from Globe-Law Lawyers, Steve KOU from Global Law Office, YANG Peiming from Llinks Law Offices, Yi-Shun Teoh from RPC, Roy Leung from Sit, Fung, Kwong & Shum, along with DVC’s Patrick FUNG SC, John SCOTT SC, Jenkin SUEN SC and Michael LOK.
This engaging and interactive session enabled panelists to share their unique perspectives on the hallmarks of effective arbitration, complemented by personal anecdotes and frontline experiences. Participants were encouraged to pose questions directly to the speakers, enriching the conversation about best practices and lessons learned in successful arbitration processes.
Round Table Discussion 3
An exclusive round table discussion titled “Navigating Challenges in International Construction Disputes: The Hong Kong Advantage” taking place during the DVC International Arbitration Symposium 2024 explored the vital role of Hong Kong legal practitioners as facilitators in resolving international construction disputes.
Moderated by DVC’s Jonathan CHAN, the session featured notable speakers including David BATESON from 39 Essex Chambers, Timothy HILL from Arbitra International, Glenn HALEY from Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP, Stanley Lo from Deacons, Alfred WU from Dentons, Michael TONKIN from HKA, James TAYLOR from Kroll, Geoffrey CHAN from Mayer Brown, Mike ALLEN from Secretariat, XU Zhihe from SHIAC, alongside DVC’s Anthony HOUGHTON SC, Ian PENNICOTT SC KC, and Kaiser LEUNG.
This discussion, attended by experienced specialists, focused on identifying key challenges faced by contractors and explored the unique advantages that Hong Kong’s legal community can offer in addressing these challenges.
We extend our sincere gratitude to all speakers who contributed to the success of this event. Your presence and engagement were invaluable, fostering rich discussions and meaningful exchanges that underscored the significance of collaboration in the field of international arbitration.
