On December 17, 2025, the 4th “CMAC Cup” Maritime and Commercial Arbitration Essay Competition Award Ceremony and the Seminar on Training Path and Career Planning of Foreign-Related Legal Talents were successfully held in Guangzhou. The event was hosted by CMAC, organized by CMAC Greater Bay Area Arbitration Center, and co-organized by multiple universities and industry associations.

(Group photo of distinguished guests)

Dr. Li Hu, Vice Chairman of CMAC, delivered an opening address. He emphasized that the “CMAC Cup” has evolved into a vital platform for academic exchanges and talent selection in the field of maritime arbitration, affirmed the professional expertise and sense of responsibility demonstrated by the young scholars, and offered three pieces of advice to the young talents: uphold faith in the rule of law, be bold in innovating practice, and broaden international horizons.

Mr. Zhang Xufeng, representative of the Guangzhou Lawyers Association, extended congratulations on the success of the event and affirmed that legal profession in Guangzhou will focus on cultivating inter-disciplinary foreign-related legal talents.

During the awards ceremony, Dr. Li Hu and other distinguished guests presented awards to representative award-winners. The representatives shared their acceptance speeches and elaborated on the research behind their papers. The ceremony was moderated by Ms. Tang Jiawei, Deputy Secretary-General of CMAC Greater Bay Area Arbitration Center.

(Presenting awards to representative award winners)

The seminar followed was moderated by Professor Guo Ping from Sun Yat-sen University. CMAC arbitrator Mr. Zhang Yongjian delivered a keynote speech, in which he analyzed the demand for foreign-related legal talents, shared practical experience in maritime law, and encouraged young professionals to contribute to China’s development of a strong maritime country. A number of industry experts and scholars exchanged views on talent competency requirements, capacity building and career planning. Ms. Tang Jiawei delivered the closing remarks.

The event was held in a lively atmosphere. Attendees expressed they will to continue to participate in events related to the CMAC Cup, and work together to build a professional exchange platform for young legal talents.