Hong Kong as an Actor in International Economic Law

The book offers a carefully constructed analysis of Hong Kong’s engagement with international economic law across unilateral, bilateral and multilateral dimensions. It makes a meaningful contribution to the literature on smaller jurisdictions, while also offering a valuable framework for thinking about the tensions between legal autonomy and geopolitical alignment. As such, it stands to inform and enrich future discussions on how semi-autonomous economies navigate the complexities of today’s international legal order. * International & Comparative Law Quarterly *
The author provides an intelligent view and critical discussions. The book offers exceptional research into Hong Kong’s IEL, looking at doctrines, policy effects and Hong Kong unique situation. The author highlights that the insights gleaned from the analysis bear significant implications for understanding Hong Kong’s future trajectory in the global economic landscape. […] Given its unique status as a significant international financial center and a Special Administrative Region of China, Hong Kong occupies a unique position in the global economy. * ICSID Review - Foreign Investment Law Journal *
This extensive volume by Professor Julien Chaisse offers a thorough examination of Hong Kong’s status within international economic law. It also explores the broader role of what might be described as “smaller jurisdictions” in the contexts of international trade, investment, and tax governance. Notably, the book provides a robust theoretical foundation for scholarly discourse, while offering practical insights for investors, legal professionals, and financial experts. […] Through its critical and objective examination of Hong Kong’s legal system, spanning nearly a century and covering unilateral, bilateral, and multilateral dimensions, this volume from Professor Chaisse serves as an essential resource for legal practitioners, scholars, and international economic diplomats interested in Hong Kong, China, and the broader Indo-Pacific region, as well as US-China and EU-China relations. It offers a comprehensive critique of Hong Kong’s position within international economic law, positioning itself at the forefront of trade and investment system studies. * Trade, Law and Development *
By examining Hong Kong’s economic policies through its domestic, bilateral and multilateral endeavours, the book makes a laudable and ambitious attempt to map the territory’s complex role and policy in IEL. In a time when trade is increasingly weaponized, Hong Kong’s enduring commitment to IEL offers a timely reminder of the benefits that open markets and free trade can bring. […] The detailed and prescient analysis in the book remains a vital resource for understanding the shifting legal and geopolitical landscape surrounding Hong Kong. * Journal of International Trade Law and Policy *
Through its combination of multi-layered analysis, integration of legal and economic dimensions, and pragmatic guidance, Professor Julien Chaisse’s book provides a deep and meaningful exploration of Hong Kong’s complex role in international economic legal governance. It enriches understanding of Hong Kong’s evolving contribution to global economic governance and offers timely and valuable theoretical and practical resources. […] This book is highly recommended for researchers, policymakers, and professionals concerned with global economic and legal developments. * Xi’an Jiaotong University Journal *
The book ... makes a methodological contribution to the literature. Chaisse adopts a constructivist sensibility that combines doctrinal analysis with comparative and institutional insights. This allows him to move beyond formal competence debates and instead focus on how legal capacity is constructed through practice … Timely. * Asian Journal of International Law *
Chaisse methodically analyzes the legal, economic, and institutional frameworks governing Hong Kong’s international engagements, while also exploring the broader geopolitical and economic challenges that Hong Kong faces in the current global order. […] Chaisse’s extensive research and valuable insights make this book an essential resource for understanding Hong Kong’s legal and economic framework, especially in the context of an ever-changing geopolitical environment. While the legal aspects of the book may pose a challenge for non-specialists, the importance of its relevance to policymakers, legal professionals, and scholars cannot be neglected. Chaisse provides a vital framework for understanding how Hong Kong continues to maintain its position as a key participant in IEL despite increasing political and economic pressures. * Journal of WTO and China *
The book is highly recommended to those interested in Hong Kong’s commercial regulation, its economic and legal policies as well as interplay with China and the global economy. It serves as an indispensable guide to understanding the unique and peculiar position of Hong Kong as an international economic law actor within a changing global environment as well as the challenges and opportunities it may face in the future. * International Trade Law & Regulation *
Meticulously researched and exceptionally well-documented, it will prove indispensable for scholars, legal practitioners, and policymakers, particularly those with an interest in Greater China, Asian studies, or Indo-Pacific economic integration within the broader framework of international economic law. * International Community Law Review *
The book is a valuable resource for those interested in international economic governance, providing essential perspectives on how smaller economies can traverse global economic pressures while maintaining their autonomy and relevance. [...] Chaisse presents a blueprint for understanding the broader implications of international economic law in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond. * Foreign Trade Review *
Hong Kong as an Actor in International Economic Law is a thoroughly researched, pedagogical, and highly informative work that serves as a valuable resource and must-read for anyone interested in legal developments surrounding Hong Kong, SAR. Chaisse’s lucid prose and methodical approach make complex legal concepts accessible to both specialists and general readers, offering insights into Hong Kong’s unique position as a bridge between East and West in the development of IEL. * Chinese (Taiwan) Yearbook of International Law & Affairs *