New SIMC-CHINCA Partnership to Strengthen Mediation in Cross-Border Infrastructure Disputes
On 27 August 2024, during Singapore Convention Week, SIMC and the China International Contractors Association (CHINCA) solidified a crucial partnership by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The signing, conducted during a business exchange session, was led by Mr. Xin Xiuming, Vice President of CHINCA, and SIMC’s CEO, Mr. Chuan Wee Meng.
Founded in 1988, CHINCA represents over 1,500 member corporations, with more than 1,000 actively involved in international project engineering. CHINCA's influence spans across 190 countries, advancing Chinese companies in global construction and investment.
The MOU seeks to promote the wider adoption of mediation, specifically in the sectors of international project engineering, construction, and investment. This partnership will enhance cross-border dispute resolution, particularly in relation to the Belt and Road Initiative. The collaboration will include cross-referral of commercial disputes, as well as joint efforts in training and promoting mediation.
Witnessing this important event were representatives from seven Singapore-based Chinese enterprises, including MCC Singapore, China Communications Construction Co., Ltd., China Harbour Engineering Co., Ltd., Qingjian International (South Pacific) Group Development Co., Pte Ltd, Shanghai Tunnel Engineering and Construction (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, China State Construction (CSCEC), and LiuGong Machinery.
During the event, SIMC, CHINCA, and the Chinese enterprises discussed, exchanged ideas, and shared experiences and challenges in resolving cross-border disputes. The Chinese enterprises were also introduced to the benefits of mediation as an appropriate dispute resolution method for commercial and international disputes. The newly signed MOU between SIMC and CHINCA demonstrates the growing desire among Chinese companies to consider mediation beyond traditional routes of litigation and arbitration for dispute settlement Collaboration between SIMC and CHINCA have been deepening in recent years. SIMC’s CEO, Chan Wee Meng, was invited to speak at one of the parallel sessions on 'International Engineering Dispute Resolution and Legal Services' at CHINCA’s 15th International Infrastructure Investment and Construction Forum (IIICF), held in Macao in June of this year.
