Landmark Case: Beijing Arbitration Commission’s First Successful Enforcement of Interim Measure Decision

In a groundbreaking development in the world of international arbitration, the Beijing Arbitration Commission/Beijing International Arbitration Court (BAC/BIAC) recently made history by having an interim measure decision recognized and enforced by the Beijing Fourth Intermediate People’s Court. This marks the first instance of a mainland Chinese court upholding an interim measure issued by an arbitral tribunal, showcasing a significant step towards integrating litigation with arbitration in Beijing.

Interim measures in international arbitration are temporary directives issued to safeguard arbitration proceedings and ensure the enforceability of arbitration awards. While arbitral tribunals have the authority to grant such measures in international practice, China traditionally reserved this power exclusively for courts. However, the BAC/BIAC took a pioneering step in 2015 by incorporating provisions for interim measures in its arbitration rules, aligning Chinese practices with international standards.

In a landmark case, the arbitral tribunal demonstrated its expertise by carefully evaluating the legitimacy, necessity, proportionality, and enforceability of the interim measures. The proactive support of the Beijing Fourth Intermediate People’s Court also played a crucial role in creating a favorable judicial environment for the enforcement of the tribunal’s decision.

This milestone not only enhances Beijing’s reputation as a global hub for international commercial arbitration but also provides a practical example of aligning Chinese arbitration practices with international norms. By allowing arbitral tribunals to issue enforceable interim measures, Beijing is strengthening its arbitration-friendly legal environment and attracting more parties to choose the city as their arbitration venue.

Overall, this breakthrough signifies a significant advancement in China’s arbitration regime and solidifies Beijing’s position as a leading international commercial arbitration center. The successful enforcement of the arbitral tribunal’s interim measure sets a precedent for future cases and further enhances Beijing’s appeal as a preferred destination for resolving international disputes.