As international commerce becomes increasingly interconnected, disputes frequently arise between parties whose legal expectations are shaped by very different legal traditions. The contrast between civil law and common law systems can have a significant impact on how contractual rights and obligations are interpreted, enforced and ultimately resolved in arbitration proceedings. In international arbitration, tribunals are regularly tasked with navigating these competing legal traditions while remaining faithful to the governing law, the parties’ contractual intentions and commercial realities.
These issues will be explored during Hong Kong Arbitration Week 2026 at the Swiss Arbitration panel discussion, “Clash and Convergence: Legal Differences in International Arbitration“, taking place on 23 October 2026 from 3:00pm to 4:30pm at the Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre (HKIAC).
The session will bring together leading arbitration practitioners from Switzerland, Hong Kong, Mainland China and Germany to examine how differing substantive legal approaches can influence dispute strategy, risk allocation and outcomes in international arbitration. The panel will feature:
- Lavesh Kirpalani, Barrister & Arbitrator, Prince’s Chambers, Hong Kong
- Nadine Pfiffner, Independent Arbitrator & Counsel, Zurich
- Philipp Hanusch, Partner, Baker McKenzie, Hong Kong
- Shan (Tessa) Wang, Partner, Zhong Lun, Shanghai
- (Moderator) Tom Christopher Pröstler, Partner, CMS, Berlin & Hong Kong
Drawing on their diverse professional and jurisdictional backgrounds, the speakers will share practical insights into how substantive legal differences affect arbitration proceedings and how parties can anticipate and manage those challenges in cross-border disputes.
To find out more about the event, please contact Lavesh or visit the Hong Kong Arbitration Week site.
