Sichuan’s “Tianfu Central Legal District” Sets an Example for Hong Kong’s Legal Industry
In a recent visit to Sichuan, a delegation from the CPPCC National Committee witnessed the impressive developments in the region, particularly in the judicial field. One notable development is the establishment of the “Tianfu Central Legal District” in Sichuan Tianfu New District, which is the first provincial-level modern legal gathering area in China. This innovative concept brings together the main judicial and legal institutions in one area, similar to a university town.
Since April 2021, 28 institutions, including the Chengdu Financial Court, Chengdu Internet Court, Chengdu Bankruptcy Court, more than 100 law firms, the Belt and Road Commercial Mediation Center, and the National Tax Legal Service Center, have entered the Central Legal District. The judicial organs in this area have already handled over 40,000 cases, involving more than 360 billion yuan, and the revenue of the legal industry has increased by 150%.
The mainland’s comprehensive government planning and abundant land resources have facilitated the development of such legal districts. Hong Kong, on the other hand, lacks these resources, making it challenging to establish a similar central legal district. However, Hong Kong can still learn from Sichuan’s development plans.
One of the key features of the Tianfu Central Legal District is its comprehensive digitalization. Law firms can submit digital versions of documents in a specified format, which the court accepts. Lawyers can access case files from different regions through the internet, as long as they can confirm their legal representation. Additionally, the legal area has “legal kiosks” where participants can join hearings remotely. This digitalization significantly improves efficiency and reduces waiting times for hearings.
Hong Kong, known for its dominant service industry, including legal services, can also benefit from digital reforms. Currently, Hong Kong’s service industry accounts for 93.4% of its GDP, with legal services contributing 11.4% of GDP. The central government has supported Hong Kong in establishing the “International Mediation Institute,” enhancing its development in international mediation. With its strategic location as the starting point of the Belt and Road Initiative, Sichuan’s Belt and Road Commercial Mediation Center and its focus on intellectual property protection offer opportunities for cooperation between Sichuan and Hong Kong.
The conclusions drawn from this visit are twofold. Firstly, Hong Kong needs to accelerate its digital reforms in the legal services sector, including its courts, to improve cross-regional service provision. Secondly, there is significant potential for cooperation between Sichuan and Hong Kong, particularly in providing financial and legal services in the Belt and Road Initiative market. Joint cooperation can expand overseas business opportunities and benefit both regions.
To further develop Hong Kong’s legal service industry, it is crucial to cooperate with the mainland, look beyond local conflicts, and explore global business opportunities. By doing so, Hong Kong can seize the opportunities presented by the rapidly evolving legal landscape.
Lu Yongxiong
What impact does the prioritization of innovation and advanced technologies in the Tianfu Central Legal District have on the efficiency and effectiveness of legal proceedings in Sichuan
Strict is its integration of judicial institutions, legal services, and related industries. This integration promotes communication, cooperation, and synergy among different stakeholders in the legal industry. By enhancing collaboration between the judiciary, law firms, and other legal service providers, the district optimizes the efficiency of legal proceedings and enhances the overall effectiveness of the legal system.
Moreover, the Central Legal District in Sichuan also prioritizes innovation and the application of advanced technologies in its operations. It has established specialized courts, such as the Chengdu Internet Court, to address the unique challenges posed by the digital age. This focus on technological innovation and adaptation demonstrates Sichuan’s commitment to staying at the forefront of legal development.
In addition to its physical infrastructure, the Tianfu Central Legal District also offers comprehensive support services to legal professionals and institutions. It provides a conducive environment for research, education, and training, fostering the continuous professional development of legal practitioners. This holistic approach not only ensures the growth and sustainability of the legal industry but also contributes to the region’s overall socio-economic development.
While the establishment of a similar legal district in Hong Kong may face challenges due to limited land resources and government planning, there are valuable lessons to be learned from Sichuan’s experience. Hong Kong can explore ways to enhance collaboration and integration within its legal industry by creating platforms for dialogue, cooperation, and knowledge exchange among legal professionals, academic institutions, and related industries.
Furthermore, Hong Kong can also leverage its strengths in areas such as financial services and international dispute resolution to develop specialized legal services that complement its existing legal framework. By adopting a proactive and forward-thinking approach, Hong Kong can continue to evolve and position itself as a leading hub for legal services in the Asia-Pacific region.
In conclusion, Sichuan’s Tianfu Central Legal District sets an example for Hong Kong’s legal industry in terms of promoting integration, innovation, and comprehensive support services. While the challenges are unique for each region, Hong Kong can draw inspiration from Sichuan’s successful experience and adapt these principles to its own context. By doing so, Hong Kong can further enhance its legal industry’s competitiveness and contribute to its long-term development.
