More than 600 legal and business experts from 20 countries and regions attended the 14th South China Business and Law Forum held at the Shenzhen Court of International Arbitration (SCIA) Tower in Qianhai on March 21.
Participants exchanged ideas and explored new opportunities for companies expanding overseas under the APEC framework, while discussing how to better safeguard their legitimate rights and interests in the process.
Among them, 15 chief representatives from 12 APEC economies shared their views and delivered keynote speeches on “Business Environment and Legal Frameworks in APEC Economies: Recommendations for Chinese Enterprises.”
Helena Chen, managing partner of Chen & Chang, Attorneys-at-Law and an SCIA arbitrator, said Chinese companies should first gain a full understanding of local laws before expanding overseas to avoid misunderstandings. If problems arise, they should seek legal advice promptly. Compared with court judgments, arbitration is usually faster and its finality can help companies save substantial time and costs.
Mark Feldman, from the United States, is the executive dean of Peking University School of Transnational Law and an SCIA arbitrator, and said that for Shenzhen-based tech companies going global, national security and investment screening are major issues in the tech sector.
“My recommendation for those facing national security issues is a two-step approach: attempt dialogue first, then turn to dispute resolution if dialogue fails,” he said.
Anna Grishchenkova, from Russia, a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (FCIArb) and an SCIA arbitrator, said it is understandable that companies may encounter administrative or legal challenges when moving into a new market. Her advice is to seek help from local councils or institutions, which can make problem-solving easier when navigating unfamiliar markets.
The event also featured a certificate presentation ceremony for SCIA chief representatives. Fifteen arbitrators from 12 countries received the honor, including 14 from APEC economies.