A new report from the Supreme People's Court of the Chinese mainland reveals that over the past four decades, the system has evolved from handling just 18 cases a year in 1984 to processing 34,400 cases in 2024, earning its status as the world's most comprehensive maritime judicial network.
Here's how the system evolved:
- First court in 1984: Established after an NPC Standing Committee decision in November 1984.
- Expanding reach: 11 maritime courts with cross-regional jurisdiction and 42 tribunals now cover major ports.
- Case explosion: Annual caseload rose from 18 to 34,400 between 1984 and 2024.
Case types have multiplied, moving beyond traditional trade and shipping disputes to include:
- Marine resource development
- Environmental protection
- Port and terminal construction
- Ocean-related cultural and tourism industries
On the international stage, the Chinese mainland has influenced maritime law through the Beijing Convention on the Judicial Sale of Ships. Initiated by the mainland's judicial practice, it was the first UN maritime convention named after a Chinese city when adopted by the UN General Assembly.
As global trade and environmental challenges grow, this report underscores how robust legal frameworks can help navigate complex seas—both literally and figuratively. For young global citizens, entrepreneurs, and changemakers, this development highlights the power of legal innovation in driving sustainable ocean economies.
Reference(s):
China has world's most comprehensive maritime judicial system: report
cgtn.com
