Originally from the Journal of Enforcement of Arbitration Awards

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I. INTRODUCTION

After the landmark decision by a Chinese court finding reciprocity between China and the United States, and recognizing and enforcing a United States judgment for the first time, there have been heated discussions on whether this case signals a genuine broader trend towards recognition and enforcement of foreign judgments in China.   Although it may be hasty to jump into a conclusion based on one single case that Chinese courts have shifted towards a pro-enforcement attitude on foreign judgments,  viewing this case in the larger context alongside other recent judicial developments, we believe China is ready to take one step further towards recognition and enforcement of foreign judgments. We will analyze the status quo of foreign judgments recognition and enforcement in China, with a focus on recognition and enforcement based on reciprocity. Although there is uncertainty in the current application of reciprocity, we believe that developments in judicial practices may signal certain legislative improvements in the near future.  We also will provide some practical guidance and insights for recognition and enforcement of foreign judgments in China, based on our analysis of published cases.