The Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre (HKIAC) recorded a 10% increase in arbitration filings for 2025, reaching a peak of 388 cases. This follows another record year in 2024, as the centre attracts a more internationally diverse user base. More than 90% of administered cases now involve parties from 61 jurisdictions worldwide. The Middle East and Latin America have shown rising activity, while Africa has emerged as a significant region, with 74 cases involving African parties across 14 jurisdictions between 2018 and 2025.
The United Arab Emirates, which appeared in the HKIAC’s top-ten most active jurisdictions for the third consecutive year, exemplifies the deepening engagement from the Middle East. Brazil’s debut in the top-ten list marks Latin America’s first representation among the region’s most frequent filers, and to date HKIAC has administered disputes involving parties from more than 120 different jurisdictions.
Disputes handled by HKIAC now total $16.2 billion in value, with an average case worth $53.7 million. While smaller claims are processed, the centre remains a preferred option for high-value disputes. Cases exceeding $50 million frequently involve technology and cryptocurrency sectors. As Hong Kong strengthens its position as a digital asset hub, recent regulatory changes surrounding stablecoins are likely to generate additional cases in this field.
Effective 1 January 2026, the threshold for HKIAC’s expedited procedure will be raised, allowing parties whose disputes are valued up to $6.4 million to use the faster track and achieve resolution more efficiently.
HKIAC’s arbitration rules were identified as the second most popular globally in a survey by Queen Mary University. The centre maintains its standing through a governance framework comprising a Board of Council members and committees of international experts. This structure ensures impartiality in appointments and procedural decisions. Although parties using HKIAC’s rules are not obligated to select Hong Kong as the arbitration seat, it remains the most frequently chosen location for both China-related and non-China-related contracts.
The centre’s leadership is currently overseen by co-chairs Domitille Baizeau and Victor Dawes, who have each served on the HKIAC Council and on its specialist committees for several years. Their direct involvement reinforces the institution’s commitment to impartial governance and transparent appointment processes.
Under the Interim Measures Arrangement (IMA), parties in Hong Kong-based arbitrations can seek urgent relief directly from Mainland Chinese courts. This arrangement has been utilised by parties from Hong Kong, Mainland China, and 23 additional jurisdictions, including regions in Europe and the United States. The total value of assets secured through the IMA has surpassed $4.6 billion. The mechanism enhances confidence in HKIAC for China-related disputes by enabling legal protection within the Mainland’s judicial system. Expanding international engagement remains a key priority for HKIAC, as it continues to advocate for arbitration as an efficient dispute resolution method.