Key practical points:
• Arbitration requires a valid written 'arbitration agreement' between the parties (a clause or separate agreement).
• It is usually confidential and faster than courts, and the award is final and binding without an appeal on the merits.
• It is widely used in international contracts because awards are enforced across borders under the New York Convention.
• Well-known bodies (such as CIETAC) handle foreign-related disputes.
• Certain matters (personal status, some administrative disputes) cannot be arbitrated.
• Courts intervene only narrowly (enforcing or setting aside an award on limited grounds).
⚖️ Dispute resolution
Arbitration Law · Yalla China
中华人民共和国仲裁法 / Arbitration Law
Enacted: 1994-08-31 ✅ Effective: 1995-09-01
📝 Overview
A law governing resolution of commercial disputes by arbitration instead of courts, with a binding, enforceable award.
This is general information only, not legal advice. For your specific case, consult a licensed lawyer.
📜 The law text / key provisions
💬 Practical reading
💬 This is a general reading/opinion for orientation — not the official legal text nor legal advice.
In international business contracts, arbitration is often better than court because it is faster, confidential, and the award is enforceable in many countries. The key: put a clear arbitration clause in your contract from the start naming the body, seat and language. Without a written arbitration agreement, there is no arbitration. General orientation, not legal advice.
📎 Official source
npc.gov.cn / CIETAC
🕒 Updated: 16 March 2026