On 24 July 2026, a delegation of 38 international participants from the 19th Summer Programme of Xiamen Academy of International Law visitied Xiamen Arbitration Commission (XMAC) and the Maritime Silk Road Central Legal District (MSRCLD). The visit provided the delegates with a practical, immersive insight into dispute resolution mechanisms in action, while showcasing how the legal district integrates multifaceted services to facilitate and safeguard cross-border commerce.
Following a brief introduction of XMAC by Deputy Division Chief Wu Qingxiang, Prof. Zhao Yun delivered a two-hour lecture exploring the core aspects of international arbitration—ranging from parties’ motives for choosing arbitration to the interplay between governing law and procedural rules. Drawing on real-world cases, Prof. Zhao highlighted common legal pitfalls and emphasized how a well-drafted arbitration agreement shapes subsequent proceedings. The session sparked active discussion, with participants raising questions and sharing their own perspectives throughout.
Following the lecture, the group moved to the MSRCLDistrict, where they watched a short introductory video outlining the district’s master plan, its growing international standing, and the range of services it provides.
At the Public Legal Service Centre, staff explained how members of the public can access legal advice, apply for legal aid, and use mediation services. The centre plays an active role in making legal resources more accessible and in raising public legal awareness.
The delegation then visited Xiamen Foreign‑related Maritime Court. They learned about the court’s efforts to establish an integrated jurisdiction over maritime civil, administrative and criminal cases-a “three‑in‑one” framework that harmonises adjudication standards and enhances judicial efficiency. The court is also building an international mediation platform for maritime and commercial disputes along the Maritime Silk Road, with the aim of delivering more professional judicial services and fostering a fairer, more predictable business environment for Xiamen and the wider Fujian region.
The tour concluded at Xiamen International Commercial Court, where participants gained an understanding of its jurisdiction, the dispute‑resolution services it offers, and how it handles complex cross‑border commercial cases through streamlined procedures and a mix of adjudicative and alternative methods.
By the end of the visit, the participants had formed a clear picture of how arbitration and court‑based services complement each other in the international commercial sphere. Many noted that experiencing the legal district in person deepened their appreciation of the region’s concrete efforts to build a rule‑of‑law business environment along the Belt and Road. They were particularly struck by how directly these institutions connect legal services with the practical needs of businesses operating across borders.
