The Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre (HKIAC) has introduced important changes that will be implemented on 1 January 2026, including expanding the scope for expedited procedures and adjusting its fees for the first time since 2013.
The HKIAC allows more users to enjoy their streamlined services by increasing the amount in dispute from a maximum of HKD25 million to HKD50 million.
At the same time, it increased its registration fee from HKD8,000 to HKD10,000, while the cap on an arbitrator’s hourly rate has been increased from HKD6,500 to HKD7,500.
Users may still choose between an hourly rate (which is the default) and an ad valorem fee model. To assist their selection, the HKIAC has released a tribunal hourly rate study for reference.
“These updates reflect the HKIAC’s ongoing commitment to transparency, flexibility and efficiency in arbitration,” said Joanne Lau, secretary-general of the HKIAC.
“By refining our expedited procedure mechanism and fee structure, and through sharing data-driven insights, we empower users to make informed choices and ensure our services remain accessible and world-class.”
