Judicial guideline streamlines maritime dispute resolution nationwide

A judicial guideline was unveiled on Wednesday to foster collaboration between courts and maritime authorities across all levels, and to advance the efficient resolution of maritime disputes through diverse approaches.

Jointly issued by the Supreme People's Court and the Ministry of Transport, the guideline seeks to improve the effectiveness of prevention, mediation and settlement of conflicts in key areas such as maritime traffic, seafarer employment, personal injury compensation, vessel pollution and administrative disagreements. This will be realized by standardizing and promoting the development of China's maritime one-stop dispute resolution centers.

Wang Shumei, a standing member of the SPC's adjudication committee, said that mediation would be prioritized as the primary approach to resolve disputes, given the urgent need for timely resolutions, the high degree of expertise required for determining accident liability, and the frequent involvement of cross-border factors in maritime disputes.

To enhance the professionalism and efficiency of dispute handling, the guideline mandates regular training for mediators and encourages greater information sharing between judicial bodies and relevant authorities. Additionally, it specifies that the establishment of such centers should prioritize accessibility and convenience for the public, Wang added.

As of December, China has established more than 60 such centers, covering coastal regions nationwide, the Yangtze River basin, and major inland waterways. Strategically located at ports, maritime bureaus, and key operational hubs, these centers operate under the joint leadership of maritime courts and maritime authorities, according to the SPC.