The 2024 ICCA (International Council for Commercial Arbitration) Congress, themed "International Arbitration: A Human Endeavour", was held from May 5-8, 2024 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. This marked the first-ever ICCA Congress held in Hong Kong. The event achieved a record-breaking attendance, surpassing any previous ICCA Congress. Over 1,400 legal and dispute professionals from more than 70 jurisdictions attended the event.

The congress marked a significant milestone as the largest professional conference in its field since the onset of the pandemic. Over the course of four days, the event offered an action-packed agenda, featuring 15 panel discussions and more than 50 side events. Notably, one of the side events was co-hosted by the Department of Justice in Shenzhen, providing a crucial platform for the exchange of developments and insights in the realm of international arbitration.

During his welcome remarks, Paul Lam, the Secretary for Justice, underscored the pivotal role of Hong Kong's "one country, two systems" principle. He accentuated Hong Kong's distinctive position as the sole common law jurisdiction within China.

Hosting this highly regarded event, known as the "Olympics of international commercial arbitration," further solidified Hong Kong's role as a leading destination for international arbitration. Below are some quotes from the organisers and speakers about the event and Hong Kong's advantages as the host city.