To meet dispute resolution demands in the digital economy era and further address users’ expectations for efficient participation in arbitration proceedings, the China International Economic and Trade Arbitration Commission ("CIETAC") has officially launched its upgraded CIETAC ODR Platform ("Platform") across desktop (https://www.cietacodr.org), mobile App, and WeChat Mini Program interfaces. Centered on multi-platform interconnectivity, bilingual (Chinese-English) compatibility, and end-to-end coverage, the Platform deeply integrates digital services to provide global commercial entities with more efficient, intelligent, and sustainable arbitration solutions.

I. Multi-Platform Integration: Seamless Whole-Process Collaboration

The upgraded Platform enables real-time data synchronization across desktop, mobile App, and WeChat Mini Program. After identity verification, arbitration users may handle all arbitration procedures—including online case filing, document exchange, video hearings, award delivery, arbitration fee calculation, and invoice requests—through a single portal, breaking time and space barriers and enhancing efficiency.

Parties/agents, arbitrators, and the arbitral institution may efficiently manage arbitration affairs according to their respective roles:

Parties/Agents: Track case process, submit procedural requests, file submissions/evidence, receive documents/notifications, access electronic case bundles, view hearing schedules, and reserve parking space.

Arbitrators: Review case files anytime, issue procedural decisions, sign documents, and track remuneration status.

Arbitral Institution: Visually monitor case workflows and track real-time case process.

The Platform employs trusted timestamping to authenticate the content and submission time of electronic documents via digital technology. All materials are cloud-synced and stored on dedicated servers, ensuring legal validity and procedural security. CIETAC prioritizes data security and confidentiality: all case data, party information, hearing records, and related materials are strictly stored on dedicated servers with triple safeguards—secure data control, rigorous information protection, and autonomous management—eliminating user concerns about data risks.

The Platform supports encrypted upload/download of single large files (up to 5GB) and batch files. Uploads automatically trigger multi-platform notifications (email/SMS) to relevant parties, reducing traditional delivery delays and shortening overall arbitration timelines.

II. Cross-Border Connectivity: Breaking Barriers in International Arbitration

The Platform enables zero-barrier access for global users. For international dispute resolution scenario (including foreign-related and English-language cases), all interfaces (desktop/App/Mini Program) support bilingual Chinese-English switching. Overseas parties may register/login without a mainland Chinese phone number. The built-in video hearing system requires no separate download and supports multi-device, multi-platform, and multi-user participation across jurisdictions. As of May 20, 2025, CIETAC has conducted 6,331 online/hybrid hearings since the launching of its Intelligent Hearing Platform in 2020, offering parties from 65 countries/regions convenient hearing services. Since the introduction of online filing system in 2019, CIETAC has received 8,939 online case filings. In 2024 alone, CIETAC handled 2,998 online filings (50% of total filings) and 1,766 online hearings (≈33% of total hearings).

Effective January 1, 2024, CIETAC’s revised Arbitration Rules (10th Edition) empower practice with institutionalize innovations, actively respond to the needs of the times, and promote practical development based on well-established experience. Newly adopted provisions include emphasizing the priority to electronic service of arbitration documents, confirming the validity of electronic signatures on awards, and recognizing the electronic delivery of awards. These innovative and exemplary rules formalize smart arbitration practices, aligning CIETAC arbitration practice with global standards.

III. Smart-Driven Services: Human-Centric Upgrades

Over the course of 2024, 316 cases were conducted on the Platform throughout the arbitral proceedings. The upgraded Platform further enhances usability and functionality. Electronic submissions and scanned paper documents enable end-to-end online case management. Parties/agents/arbitrators may conveniently access ongoing/historical cases and track real-time updates via their accounts. Upgraded features—case tracking, task reminders, parking space reservations, and smart assistants—deliver a streamlined procedural experience.

IV. Digital Empowerment: Leading Industry Transformation

From launching online filing system (2019) and Intelligent Hearing Platform (2020) to today’s Platform upgrade, CIETAC consistently advances green arbitration and sustainable development, and addresses challenges in achieving dual carbon goals. By enhancing arbitration efficiency through digitization, CIETAC has gained broad recognition from arbitration users. Moving forward, CIETAC will continue leveraging cutting-edge technology to innovate arbitration ecosystems, and improving the Platform with expanded functions.

Innovation Unlimited, Service Unbounded. Anchored in trusted technology and global demand, the CIETAC ODR Platform enables fairness and justice to transcend geographical boundaries within reach.

Model Arbitration Clause (1):

Any dispute arising from or in connection with this contract shall be submitted to China International Economic and Trade Arbitration Commission (CIETAC) for arbitration which shall be conducted in accordance with the CIETAC’s Arbitration Rules in effect at the time of applying for arbitration. The arbitral award is final and binding upon both parties.

Model Arbitration Clause (2):

Any dispute arising from or in connection with this contract shall be submitted to China International Economic and Trade Arbitration Commission (CIETAC) ______ Sub-Commission/Arbitration Center for arbitration which shall be conducted in accordance with the CIETAC’s Arbitration Rules in effect at the time of applying for arbitration. The arbitral award is final and binding upon both parties.