The Hong Kong International Legal Talents Training Academy (HKILTTA) successfully hosted the “Africa Market in Focus Panel” on 23 October ,2025 at Justice Place as part of its flagship “Legal Practical Training Course for Chinese Enterprises Going Overseas”.

The event gathered over 30 leading in-house counsel and top executives from Chinese mainland enterprises, offering them a deep dive into the legal and investment landscapes across Africa.

The panel highlighted Hong Kong’s leading status in international arbitration, further reinforced by the presence of the AALCO Hong Kong Regional Arbitration Centre (AALCO-HKRAC).

The discussion was moderated by Mr. Nick Chan, BBS, MH, JP, Director of AALCO-HKRAC, and featured a distinguished panel of leading African legal experts:

  • Ms. Beverley A. Agbakoba-Onyejianya (Nigeria)
  • Dr. Mahutodji Jimmy Vital Kodo (Democratic Republic of the Congo)
  • Mr. John M. Ohaga, SC (Kenya)
  • Ms. Chinenye U. Onyemaizu (Nigeria)
  • Ms. Leyou Tameru (Ethiopia)

Participants gained practical insights into legal risk management, dispute resolution, and regulatory compliance strategies for outbound Chinese investments.

The panel emphasized the growing need for culturally aware, legally informed, and compliance-driven approaches when entering emerging markets. Participants left with a deeper understanding of how to structure agreements, protect their interests, and engage responsibly with host governments and local communities.

This panel formed a valuable part of the week-long training course, offering in-depth and practical insights into legal and regulatory issues relevant to Chinese enterprises investing in Africa. The discussion highlighted the importance of legal capacity building, cross-border understanding, and multi-jurisdictional cooperation in supporting sustainable and compliant overseas investment. The session also reinforced Hong Kong’s unique position as an ideal arbitration hub bridging East and West, combining common law traditions with deep ties to Chinese Mainland.

AALCO-HKRAC remains committed to fostering dialogue and capacity development in international investment law, arbitration, and dispute resolution, particularly in collaboration with regions along the Belt and Road.