Strengthening Bonds: SIMC's Productive Engagement at China Arbitration Week
SIMC had a highly engaging week at China Arbitration Week, organized by the China International Economic and Trade Arbitration Commission (CHINCA). The event offered a rich platform for reconnecting with longstanding institutional partners, while also forging new relationships with key players in business and law. As a leader in alternative dispute resolution, SIMC relished the opportunity to exchange ideas on making mediation more accessible and impactful in the broader dispute resolution ecosystem.
SIMC at the opening of the China Arbitration Week
A key highlight of the week was our CEO, Mr. Chuan Wee Meng, delivering insightful talks at two major conferences. At the 1st Annual Conference on China International Construction Law, co-organized by the China International Contractors Association and The Permanent Forum of China Construction Law, Wee Meng addressed nearly 200 participants on “New Developments in International Construction Dispute Resolution.” Supported by prominent arbitration institutions such as the Shanghai International Arbitration Center and the Shenzhen Court of International Arbitration, the event focused on current trends shaping the global construction industry and the role of ADR in resolving complex disputes.
Wee Meng was also a featured speaker at the 2nd Global Business and Law Conference, organized by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade. Addressing an audience of around 700 delegates, he shared insights on how robust dispute resolution mechanisms can facilitate smoother international trade and help businesses navigate legal challenges in sectors like construction and infrastructure. His talk underscored the vital role ADR plays in supporting global commerce, particularly as businesses face increasingly complex cross-border cases.
The First Annual Conference on China International Construction Law panelists
Mr. Chuan Wee Meng speaking at the The First Annual Conference on China International Construction Law
Group photo taken at the Global Business and Law Conference 2024
While in China, SIMC also took the opportunity to reunite with several of our China Specialist Mediators from the Shenzhen and Shanghai groups, and also with CHINCA who we have recently signed an MOU with when they were in Singapore. These meetings reaffirmed our commitment to building a strong network of mediation professionals across the region. We look forward to deepening these collaborations and exploring new ways to work together to enhance the practice of mediation.
Photo taken of Mr. Xin Xiuming, Vice President of CHINCA, and SIMC's CEO Mr. Chuan Wee Meng with a plaque from SIMC on the newspaper coverage from The Straits Times and Lianhe Zaobao
Dinner with the China Specialist Mediators from the Shenzhen and Shanghai batch
It was particularly encouraging to see a growing appreciation for mediation throughout the week. More businesses are recognizing mediation as an efficient, cost-effective way to resolve disputes, reducing the need for lengthy legal battles. As mediation gains traction in the global business environment, SIMC remains committed to promoting its advantages and working with partners to expand its reach in resolving commercial disputes.