Dear arbitrators, lawyers, parties, expert scholars and friends from all walks of life，

From 1956 to 2026, the China International Economic and Trade Arbitration Commission (CIETAC), having grown from its root in Beijing, has experienced and witnessed 70-year journey of commercial arbitration in China — a journey marked by both challenges and enduring commitment. 

Over the decades, CIETAC has remained steadfast in its founding mission: to be independent, impartial, efficient and professional. To date, it has administered nearly 80,000 arbitration cases, the majority of which are foreign-related, with parties coming from 170 countries and regions across the world. By doing so, CIETAC has created and polished a golden brand for Chinese commercial arbitration.   

With an open approach that embraces diverse ideas and integrates Chinese and foreign practices, CIETAC has not only actively absorbed the latest developments in international commercial arbitration, but has also contributed the “oriental experience” of combining arbitration with mediation to international commercial arbitration community, offering Chinese wisdom to the governance system of international commercial arbitration. 

Guided by a global vision that uses arbitration as a bridge to connect the world, CIETAC has fully integrated itself into the international arbitration ecosystem. It has meticulously built the “China Arbitration Week” platform, enabling the world to better understand Chinese commercial arbitration and, more broadly, the progress and commitment of the rule of law in China.   

Committed to nurturing talents for the long term, CIETAC has cultivated a fertile ground for China’s foreign-related legal talents through initiatives such as the CIETAC CUP International Commercial Arbitration Moot and the Zhong Lun Cup International Commercial Arbitration Essay Competition.

Every step of this journey tells a story, embodying the perseverance and dedication of every generation of arbitration practitioners, and carrying the trust and support of the broader community.\

This year marks not only CIETAC’s 70th anniversary, but also the launch of China’s 15th Five-Year Plan and the entry into force of the newly-revised Arbitration Law. To honor the past, express gratitude to our peers for their unwavering support, uphold our commitment to the rule of law, and jointly chart the future, we are pleased to launch this global thematic essay campaign. We sincerely invite you to share your stories with CIETAC and your aspirations for its future.  

Ⅰ. Suggested Topics

1. Reflections on the Past: Trace CIETAC’s development history, share unforgettable cases, memorable “firsts” and insights into professional and personal growth. Recreate the historic moments and scenes—whether the establishment of the institution, amendment to the Rules, or international exchanges and cooperation.

2. Honoring our forerunners: Pay tribute to the pioneering and enterprising spirit of the older generation of arbitration practitioners. Recall their rigorous working ethic, professional competence and impartiality, and preserve the warm memories that unique to those who have been part of the CIETAC family.

3. Perspectives on Practice: Drawing on case-handling experience and typical cases, trace the evolution of CIETAC’s arbitration system and rules, and explore the practical value of commercial arbitration in resolving cross-border disputes, improving the business environment, and facilitating high-level opening-up.

4. Views on the Industry: From the industry standpoint, share your observations and thoughts on the development of China’s foreign-related arbitration. Analyze the trends of international commercial arbitration in the new era, and offer your vision for the future of arbitration in China. 

5. Reflections on the New Era: Against the backdrop of China’s high-level opening-up and high-quality Belt and Road Cooperation, and in light of the mission to improve commercial arbitration mechanisms and accelerate the development of international commercial arbitration centers, interpret the contemporary significance and enduring mission of CIETAC’s 70-year journey.

Ⅱ. Eligible Contributors

This call is open to all friends of CIETAC — both old and new — including, but not limited to:

1.Experts, scholars and lawyers from various sectors who have served or are currently serving as CIETAC arbitrators；

2.Former and current staff members of CIETAC；

3.Parties and their representatives who have resolved disputes through CIETAC；

4.Friends from the legal and business communities at home and abroad who have had interactions with CIETAC; and

5. Individuals from all sectors of society who care about and support the development of CIETAC and China’s foreign-related commercial arbitration.

Ⅲ. Submission Requirements

1. Genre: No restriction on genre. Submissions that convey genuine feelings and thoughtful reflections are especially  encouraged.

2. Words Limit: 2000-5000 words are recommended.

3. Content: Submissions should closely relate to the theme of CIETAC’s 70th anniversary. Supplementary materials, such as photographs, letters and cover pages of arbitral awards, may be attached (please indicate the source and provide a brief description for each image).

All submissions must be original. Plagiarism and AI-generated submissions are strictly prohibited. The work must not have been previously published in any other publication or online platform.

4. Format: Please submit an electronic Word document. The first page should include the author’s name, former or current employer and position, contact information, and a brief personal profile.

5. Submission by Email

（1）Submission Email: research70@cietac.org

（2）Email Subject: [Thematic Essay for CIETAC’s 70th Anniversary] + Article Title+ Author’s Name

（3）Deadline: October 31, 2026 (subject to the time the email is sent)

Ⅳ. Presentation of Essays

Selected essays will be published in due course on online platforms, including the WeChat Accounts and official websites of CIETAC and its sub-commissions. Outstanding essays will be compiled into a published volume following the online release, and a copy will be presented to each selected author.

For any questions, please contact Ms. Pan Chujing at 010-82217751.

Seventy years on, our original aspiration remains unchanged, and our journey continues. Let our words forge a bond between us — to recall the past, share our insights, and offer visions for the future. With our words, we capture the glory of the past and voice our shared dedication to arbitration.

Your stories make CIETAC’s 70th anniversary truly extraordinary. We look forward to receiving your submissions.

China International Economic and Trade Arbitration Commission

July 2, 2026