Hong Kong DoJ Opens Consultation on Arbitration Ordinance Reform
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TL;DR
- Hong Kong DoJ launched a one-month stakeholder consultation on Arbitration Ordinance amendments.
- Consultation will inform draft legislation, due for introduction in early 2027.
- Reforms target speed, confidentiality, scope, and fairness in arbitration.
- Consultation period runs until October 27, 2026.
Overview
The Department of Justice (DoJ) of Hong Kong has launched a month-long consultation seeking stakeholder input on proposed amendments to the Arbitration Ordinance (Cap. 609).
This initiative is part of Hong Kong's First Five-Year Plan and seeks to update the city's arbitration framework to reflect international best practices.
The consultation period runs until October 27, with legislative amendments expected to be introduced in early 2027.
What Happened
On September 28, 2026, the Hong Kong Department of Justice (DoJ) announced the launch of a one-month public consultation on proposed amendments to the Arbitration Ordinance (Cap. 609).
The consultation follows recommendations from the Working Group on Arbitration Law Reform, established in October 2025 and chaired by the Secretary for Justice.
Stakeholder input is being sought on proposed changes categorized into four key areas: speed and convenience, confidentiality, scope, and fairness and justice.
The consultation paper is being distributed to a broad range of stakeholders, including legal professionals, arbitral institutions, commercial end-users, government bodies, and academics.
After reviewing stakeholder feedback, the DoJ aims to introduce a draft amendment bill to the Legislative Council in early 2027, targeting completion of legislative reforms within the same year.
Context
Hong Kong's Department of Justice periodically reviews the Arbitration Ordinance to maintain competitiveness in international dispute resolution.
The current review is aligned with policy measures under Hong Kong's First Five-Year Plan, emphasizing updates to legal frameworks.
The Working Group includes legal and dispute resolution experts who evaluated and recommended reforms across 25 specific issues.
Why It Matters
- Revisions to the Arbitration Ordinance could enhance Hong Kong's attractiveness as an international arbitration hub.
- The consultation may lead to legislative changes reflecting current international trends and best practices in arbitration.
- Stakeholder engagement ensures that the legislative reforms address the needs of users and practitioners.