Changning Court advances on foreign‑related rule of law

The People's Court of Shanghai's Changning district has been taking actions to strengthen its foreign‑related judicial services in recent times, aligning with the district's broader goal of building a high‑level legal hub.

The court set up an aviation case adjudication station – the first of its kind in China – offering a "one‑stop" dispute resolution platform for aviation conflicts. It has also promoted an online trial model for cross‑border cases.

Staff of Changning Court handle foreign‑related case matters. [Photo/WeChat ID: shchangning]

As a member of the district's newly formed rule of law coordination group, the court has been piloting replicable practices that can be rolled out more widely.

In rulings, it follows conventions such as the Montreal Convention to affirm China's jurisdiction in aviation transport disputes. One of its decisions was selected for the International Air Transport Association 2026 Report, demonstrating international recognition of Chinese judicial reasoning.

The court is also exploring cooperation with the WIPO Shanghai Arbitration and Mediation Center to develop model cases in intellectual property and aviation‑related disputes, further enriching its dispute resolution toolkit.

To better serve enterprises, it compiled a civil litigation service guide, integrating legal support into the entire business cycle from investment attraction to stable operations.

The court is developing a "dual‑engine" legal toolbox for the protection of overseas interests with East China University of Political Science and Law.

Talent and research are equally prioritized. The court has established a research and practice base with universities, forming specialized groups in family and juvenile cases, aviation, and intellectual property. It has built partnerships with law schools in Shanghai, Beijing, and Nanjing.

These coordinated initiatives not only enhance judicial credibility but also underpin Changning's broader vision of becoming a premier destination for legal services, aviation dispute resolution, and legal tech innovation, while nurturing a globally oriented legal talent pool.