Allen & Overy LLP‘s international arbitration practice operates in conjunction with affiliated specialists in Hong Kong, Singapore and Perth, and the firm's joint operation with Lang Yue Law Firm, which recently welcomed new head Melody Wang, previously at Fangda Partners, is another major draw. The team primarily acts for international companies and financial institutions, although its expertise also extends to cover other entities, evidenced by its recent representation of the Republic of Korea in an investment treaty dispute. Dual-qualified partner Jane Jiang leads the practice from Shanghai, spearheading the team’s offering with regard to high-profile domestic financial institutions and state-owned enterprises (SOEs). Specialising in commercial and investment treaty arbitration, Hong Kong-based partner Matthew Hodgson is another key figure in the firm, acting on disputes relating to major natural resources and infrastructure projects, joint ventures and distribution agreements. Changes to the team include the departure of former department lead Matthew Gearing QC in the spring of 2021.

Clifford Chance LLP‘s litigation and dispute resolution practice combines the talents of practitioners across the firm’s international network, allowing it to achieve successful outcomes for a range of domestic and international corporations, investment funds and private equity firms. The firm showcases particular strength in cases before the Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre (HKIAC). Hong Kong-based partners Thomas Walsh and Cameron Hassall lead the practice alongside Lei Shi, who divides his time between Shanghai and Beijing. Considered ‘absolutely first class‘, Shei leverages his experience as a triple-qualified practitioner to represent major banks, financial investors and technology companies in PRC and multi-jurisdictional disputes. In Shanghai, senior associate Nathan Zhou supports the team’s efforts in a variety of disputes featuring a Chinese element.

With a strong footing in the energy, construction, private equity, telecoms and technology sectors, Shearman & Sterling LLP stands out for its experience in complex commercial disputes and investment treaty arbitration. The practice is also characterised by its involvement in matters with high-profile clients, including its recent representation of the PRC in ICSID arbitration. Splitting his time between Beijing and Singapore, Emmanuel Jacomy leads the practice, often acting for clients in high-stakes international disputes. In Hong Kong, dual-qualified counsel Edward Taylor is another key figure, regarded for his work in commercial and investment treaty disputes. In April 2022 Nils Eliasson departed the firm.