Understanding the Guangzhou Arbitration Commission: Role & Services

Guangzhou Arbitration Commission: A Comprehensive Overview

Introduction
Established shortly after China’s Arbitration Law took effect in 1995, the Guangzhou Arbitration Commission (GZAC) has grown to become one of China’s most prominent arbitration institutions. This guide details its organizational structure, service scope, and international contributions.

Organizational Development
GZAC has strategically expanded to serve the Pearl River Delta region:

• 2005: Established Dongguan Branch
• 2006: Founded Zhongshan Branch
• 2011 onward: Created specialized arbitration courts for:
  • Financial disputes
  • Intellectual property
  • International shipping
  • Construction projects

Service Excellence
Operating with independence and professionalism, GZAC has achieved:

• 30%+ annual case growth in recent years
• Nation-leading caseload volume
• Industry coverage including:
  • Finance and construction
  • Real estate and investment
  • Shipping and internet sectors
• International parties from 20+ jurisdictions including:
  • North America (USA, Canada)
  • Europe (UK, Germany)
  • Asia-Pacific (Australia, Japan, Singapore)
• Pioneered China’s first online arbitration platform

International Engagement
GZAC actively supports the Greater Bay Area and Belt & Road Initiative:

• 2012: Established China Nansha International Arbitration Center featuring:
  • Internationally-recognized arbitration rules
  • Open panel of arbitrators
  • Hybrid civil/common law procedures
  • Expert committee with Hong Kong/Macau specialists
• 2018: Founded Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Arbitration Alliance
• 2019: Launched Cyprus Arbitration-Mediation Center

Legal Framework
The Standing Committee of Guangzhou Municipal People’s Congress passed the “Decision on Promoting the Development of Guangzhou Arbitration” on September 29, 2018, providing institutional support for establishing Guangzhou as an international arbitration hub.

Case Acceptance Scope
GZAC handles commercial disputes including:

• Sales and loan contracts
• Partnership and construction disputes
• Real estate and leasing matters
• Financial and insurance conflicts
• Technology and custody agreements

Excluded Matters
GZAC does not accept:

1. Labor or agricultural contract disputes
2. Family law matters (marriage, inheritance, etc.)
3. Administrative cases

Office Hours
Monday to Friday: 9:00-12:00; 14:00-18:00