On July 26, the 2nd Zhejiang–Hong Kong Modern Professional Services Cooperation Conference was held in Ningbo. A number of cooperation projects between enterprises, platforms, and institutions from both Zhejiang and Hong Kong were signed, creating a “two-way bridge” for collaboration in fields such as port and shipping services, trade and investment, and youth exchanges.

At the event, the Ningbo (China (Zhejiang) Pilot Free Trade Zone Ningbo Area Branch of the Hong Kong International Mediation Centre (under preparation) was officially unveiled. Leveraging its rich international mediation experience and a “think tank” of over 2,000 experts from more than 30 countries and regions, the center aims to provide risk management support for cross-border operations of enterprises in Ningbo and the Yangtze River Delta region.

What kinds of issues does international mediation primarily address?
Dr. Lawrence Wong Wai Hung, Chairman of the Hong Kong International Mediation Centre, told reporters: “At present, many Chinese enterprises are transitioning from international trade to multinational operations. During this process, they may face trade disputes such as malicious infringement claims or encounter major losses due to unfamiliarity with the laws, regulations, and policies of destination countries. We offer professional international commercial mediation and arbitration services to help enterprises protect their legitimate rights and interests at a lower cost.”

Dr. Wong explained that their decision to establish a presence in Ningbo was driven by the city’s geographical advantage as a global port and its favourable business environment.

Moving forward, the centre will occupy more than 300 square meters of office space in the Free Trade Building in Beilun District, with plans to serve 1,500 enterprises and handle 800 to 1,000 cases within three years.

“We can provide enterprises with risk prevention ‘checkups,’ efficiently mediate disputes, and train a local team of professionals in international business and law. We aim to connect Hong Kong’s port logistics, maritime services, and financial and insurance industries with Ningbo, and to foster the clustering of supporting industries,” said Dr. Wong.

Source: Yongpai

Reporter: Yan Jin

Correspondent: Shen Ji

Editor: Ye Ke