In recent years, China’s capacity for international legal services has grown significantly. According to data from the Ministry of Justice, Chinese law firms have established 207 branches in 37 countries and regions, 73 of which are located in countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative. The number of lawyers specializing in international legal matters has exceeded 12,000, while parties involved in international arbitration cases now span over 100 countries and regions.
Judicial administration agencies play a critical role in supporting the Belt and Road Initiative within the legal framework. By fostering world-class arbitration institutions and law firms, and by building comprehensive legal service platforms for the initiative, China has taken significant steps to protect the rights of companies and citizens expanding abroad, contributing robust legal support to the high-quality development of the Belt and Road Initiative.
China’s Legal Innovations Set Global Standards
In Guangzhou, the “Guangzhou Standards” developed for international arbitration are gaining attention. These standards facilitate the digitalization and accessibility of arbitration processes worldwide. The Guangzhou Arbitration Commission has partnered with several Belt and Road countries, including Singapore, Hungary, and Brazil, to integrate China’s innovative solutions into the global arbitration system.
Furthermore, initiatives in Guangdong Province aim to enhance the efficiency of international legal services, reducing the risks faced by Chinese companies entering foreign markets. The “Belt and Road Legal Services Association” in Shenzhen Qianhai has brought together over 2,000 Chinese-speaking lawyers from more than 100 countries and regions to create a comprehensive legal service network. Such innovative practices contribute to the sustainable and high-standard development of the Belt and Road Initiative.