The Supreme People's Court will provide high-quality, efficient, and precise judicial services and guarantee for the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin, according to a document released Jan 17.

TheOpinions on Supporting and Guaranteeing Construction of the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqinnotes that Hengqin People's Court will be supported in setting up investigation institutions for extra-territorial laws and to start pilot operation on the application of extra-territorial laws.

Specific measures have been stipulated, such as improving a mechanism for ascertainment and application of foreign laws, establishing diversified dispute settlement mechanisms, simplifying judicial proceedings of Hong Kong or Macao-related cases, as well as enhancing judicial communication and cooperation among Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao.

Hengqin Island [Photo provided to Zhuhai Media Group]

Other measures adhering to Hengqin's actual development demands were also put forward, including expanding functions of the local court and facilitating the employment of Macao residents.

Ascertainment of extra-territorial laws of Portuguese-speaking areas and Macao will have priority, while both domestic and overseas law experts will be able to provide legal investigation assistance at Hengqin People's Court.

Enterprises registered in Hengqin and funded by Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan, and other overseas parties are allowed to use extra-territorial laws and international treaties, conventions, as well as commercial rules to resolve disputes.

One-stop diversified dispute settlement mechanisms will be further optimized, while docking and cooperation with other commercial arbitration institutions, mediation organizations, and legal service institutions from home and abroad will be promoted.

Hengqin People's Court will conduct cooperation with relevant institutes in Portuguese-speaking countries and regions to attract overseas mediation organizations and individuals to participate in dispute resolutions in areas spanning international business and intellectual property.