The Convention on the Establishment of the International Organization for Mediation (IOMed) in Hong Kong is a transformative moment for the special administrative region — underscoring its distinct advantages under the “one country, two systems” framework and the strength of its judicial system.

Over many years, Hong Kong has built extensive expertise in commercial dispute resolution through mediation, particularly within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. This deep experience and exploration of legal system development will provide essential support for the IOMed’s work.

Operating under a common law system, Hong Kong enjoys high international recognition for judicial independence and adherence to the rule of law. Its practical capabilities in legal operations are well established, and its rule of law index consistently ranks among the highest globally. These fruitful conditions enhance Hong Kong’s ability to host the IOMed effectively.

The IOMed will handle a broad spectrum of disputes — including those between nations, between a state and nationals of another country, and among international private entities — providing a new structured framework for peaceful resolutions.

The convention’s signing ceremony in Hong Kong today was witnessed by top diplomats and representatives of international organizations — a signal of strong global confidence in China’s efforts to establish a more cooperative international legal system.

Hong Kong’s reputation in international arbitration is well established, with the 2025 International Arbitration Survey of Queen Mary University  of London ranking the SAR tied for first with Singapore in the Asia-Pacific region and tied for second globally — behind only London — as the most preferred seat of arbitration worldwide. The IOMed will further elevate Hong Kong’s internationalization and deepen global legal exchanges.

What is more, the IOMed will boost the economy and professional-services sector. It will attract legal professionals, mediators and diplomats seeking avenues for equitable resolution, while drawing in international organizations, NGOs and academia.

This will grow employment, enrich the city’s legal and professional talent pool, and facilitate conferences, research programs and professional training. More broadly, it will benefit Hong Kong’s service industries, international trade partnerships and cultural exchanges.

The establishment of the IOMed in Hong Kong will cement the SAR as a global hub for legal expertise. By fostering top talent and strengthening its position as a leading professional services center, it marks yet another milestone in Hong Kong’s continued rise on the world stage — and it is most certainly not the last.

The author is a member of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and a member of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government’s Executive Council.

The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.