Bangkok: The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Justice led a team from the Thailand Arbitration Institute (THAC) to join hands with the Xiamen Arbitration Court, paving the way for enhanced legal cooperation between Thailand and China. This collaboration aims to promote international arbitration and strengthen ties between the THAC and the Xiamen Arbitration Commission.
According to Thai News Agency, from September 6-9, 2025, Ms. Phongsawat Nilayothin, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Justice and Chairwoman of the Thai Arbitration Institute, led a delegation to the Fifth Forum of Maritime Silk Road Central Legal District in Xiamen, Fujian Province, China. The forum, organized by the International Commercial Dispute Prevention and Settlement Organization, served as a pivotal platform for fostering legal cooperation and discussing international arbitration.
On September 7, 2025, Ms. Phongsawat delivered the opening address at the forum, highlighting Thailand’s strategic role in the Silk Road and the One Belt, One Road initiative, which connects China, the Greater Mekong Subregion, and the ASEAN market. She emphasized the importance of legal collaboration to support the supply chain and underscored THAC’s role in resolving over 250 domestic and international disputes since its establishment under the Arbitration Institute Act of 2007.
Furthermore, the Permanent Secretary announced plans for THAC and the Xiamen Court of International Arbitration to sign a cooperation agreement on alternative dispute resolution (ADR). This agreement aims to bolster collaboration in resolving international trade disputes and enhance legal services.
The forum also provided an opportunity for exchanging views on trade, investment, and promoting alternative dispute resolution mechanisms to support global businesses. Mr. Shi Haoyong and Mr. Liu Wenshang from the Communist Party of China’s Legal and Political Affairs Department welcomed the Thai delegation.
On September 8, 2025, THAC signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Xiamen Arbitration Commission to further promote cooperation in international trade dispute resolution. The signing ceremony, presided over by Ms. Phongsawat, was attended by senior executives and board members from both institutions, aiming to exchange knowledge and enhance the efficiency of legal services.
Later, at the Royal Thai Consulate-General in Xiamen, discussions focused on establishing a Ministry of Justice’s Arbitration Center in Xiamen. This center would serve as an advisory hub for Chinese entrepreneurs and investors in Fujian, Jiangxi, and Hunan provinces, providing information on arbitration and conciliation services.
Consul-General Ms. Sasararak Sasiwanich and other officials expressed their support for THAC’s initiative, recognizing its potential to build confidence among Chinese investors and facilitate dispute resolution. Mr. Suriyapong Tubtimthae, Director of THAC, emphasized the significance of this collaboration in realizing Thailand’s vision as an international ADR hub.