Legal

With business disruption caused by the emergence of COVID-19 and possible failure to deliver on contractual obligations on the part of Chinese counterparties, foreign companies doing business in China must consider their contractual liabilities in order to mitigate their potential risks. Scott Yu, Frank Jiang and John Jiang of Zhong Lun Law Firm examine the implications. The authors are grateful for the assistance of Emily Xu and Evy Wu in preparing this article.

Courts are given guidance to conduct online trials during the epidemic period

Foreign parties may hold a controlling interest in wealth management companies

Global legal community rallies to support COVID-19 hit businesses with expert advice; China approves first foreign-owned asset management company following trade deal; and more measures introduced to kickstart faltering economy

Assistance is offered to foreign investors during the epidemic period

E-commerce platforms have IP infringement notification obligations, courts are given guidance to conduct online trials during the epidemic period and share offering rules are revised to facilitate refinancing of listed companies.

Fang Qi of Fangda Partners examines how companies can deal with their contractual obligations during the coronavirus outbreak that has undoubtedly wreaked havoc on business operations and affected contractual relationships for many entities.

Entry conditions for foreign insurance companies are relaxed

Wilson Wei Huo of Zhong Lun Law Firm discusses the recent SEC case involving PwC and highlights the wider implications for intermediary institutions providing professional services in a tightened regulatory and enforcement regime in China's banking and financial sector