HFW

"Users don't always see the work institutions do behind the scenes to maintain quality." Joanne Lau, Secretary General of the Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre (HKIAC), discusses one of the most common misunderstandings about institutional arbitration. Speaking with our Global Senior Partner Giles Kavanagh as part of HFW Industry Insights, Joanne explains the extensive work undertaken behind the scenes to support decision-making, maintain procedural integrity and ensure high-quality case management. The discussion provides a fascinating insight into the role arbitral institutions play beyond the administrative functions most users encounter directly. Watch the clip below, or the full interview here: https://lnkd.in/eEaPrHfa #HFWIndustryInsights #Arbitration #DisputeResolution #InternationalArbitration

"Being in institutional leadership is far more entrepreneurial than I expected." Joanne Lau, Secretary General of the Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre (HKIAC), reflects on her move from private practice into institutional leadership. Speaking with our Global Senior Partner Giles Kavanagh as part of HFW Industry Insights, Joanne discusses the challenges of leading an international arbitral institution, from anticipating future market developments to engaging with users around the world and driving innovation within HKIAC. She also shares what she misses most about private practice and the aspects of her current role she finds most rewarding. Watch the clip below, or the full interview here: https://lnkd.in/eEaPrHfa #HFWIndustryInsights #Arbitration #InternationalArbitration #DisputeResolution #CommercialDisputes #Litigation

Why has HKIAC been expanding its presence beyond Hong Kong? Joanne Lau, the Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre's Secretary General, explains the importance of maintaining an international outlook in a market where disputes frequently span multiple jurisdictions. Speaking with our Global Senior Partner Giles Kavanagh as part of HFW Industry Insights, Joanne discusses how HKIAC's international network helps support users throughout the arbitration process, from understanding local business cultures to appointing suitable arbitrators for cross-border disputes. The discussion highlights why global connectivity and local knowledge are increasingly valuable in international dispute resolution. Watch the clip below, or the full interview here: https://lnkd.in/eEaPrHfa #HFWIndustryInsights #Arbitration #InternationalArbitration #DisputeResolution #CommercialDisputes #Litigation

Where is demand for international arbitration growing fastest? Joanne Lau, Secretary General of the Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre (HKIAC), discusses emerging growth markets for international arbitration. Speaking with our Global Senior Partner Giles Kavanagh as part of HFW Industry Insights, Joanne highlights increasing activity from the Middle East, Latin America, and Africa, alongside the growing internationalisation of HKIAC's caseload. She explains why global reach, international expertise and an understanding of different legal and business cultures remain increasingly important for arbitration users. Watch the clip below, or the full interview here: https://lnkd.in/eEaPrHfa #HFWIndustryInsights #Arbitration #InternationalArbitration #DisputeResolution #CommercialDisputes #Litigation

"Commercial parties are increasingly turning to arbitration to resolve high-value, complex disputes." Joanne Lau, Secretary General of the Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre (HKIAC), reflects on what the institution's latest case statistics reveal about the changing arbitration market. Speaking with our Global Senior Partner Giles Kavanagh as part of HFW Industry Insights, Joanne highlights the growing value and complexity of disputes being referred to arbitration, with more cases involving multiple parties, multiple contracts, and significant sums in dispute. The data suggests that arbitration continues to be a preferred mechanism for resolving sophisticated international commercial disputes. Watch the clip below, or the full interview here: https://lnkd.in/eEaPrHfa #HFWIndustryInsights #Arbitration #InternationalArbitration #DisputeResolution #CommercialDisputes #Litigation

"Users constantly wish to see international arbitration moving more quickly and more cost-efficiently." Joanne Lau, Secretary General of the Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre (HKIAC), discusses how arbitral institutions are adapting to evolving user expectations. Speaking with our Global Senior Partner Giles Kavanagh as part of HFW Industry Insights, Joanne explains the rationale behind HKIAC's 2024 rule changes, including measures aimed at improving efficiency, enhancing diversity in arbitrator appointments, and strengthening emergency relief procedures. The discussion highlights the continuing focus on delivering faster, more effective dispute resolution while maintaining the integrity of the arbitral process. Watch the clip below, or the full interview here: https://lnkd.in/eEaPrHfa #HFWIndustryInsights #Arbitration #InternationalArbitration #DisputeResolution #CommercialDisputes #Litigation