By Asian Legal Business, Asia Legal Magazine

Over the past few years, China’s dispute resolution sector has presented a unique "two-sided" landscape: on one hand, industry competition has intensified dramatically, with fierce "involution" driving down fees for dispute resolution services—posing unprecedented challenges for practitioners. On the other hand, the complex and ever-changing business environment, coupled with global geopolitical dynamics, has led to a surge in high-stakes disputes, significantly boosting demand among businesses for sophisticated, high-end, and comprehensive dispute resolution solutions. As a result, leading and boutique law firms are increasingly targeting the "top tier" of this lucrative market, striving to deliver dispute resolution services that are not only more differentiated but also offer greater added value.

Against this backdrop, ALB China has conducted its second consecutive year of research and evaluation on the dispute resolution capabilities of law firms operating in the Chinese market. This year’s survey not only focuses on the overall strength of law firms’ dispute resolution practices but also places particular emphasis on their ability to demonstrate innovation, strategic foresight, and leadership in an increasingly dynamic and evolving market landscape.

The "Litigation" section of the 2025 rankings is divided into five tiers, with 59 law firms making the list. Among them, four firms are placed in the top tier; 10 firms have moved up a ranking level compared to last year; and an additional 12 firms are appearing on the list for the first time.

The "Arbitration" section is divided into four tiers, with 35 law firms selected. Among them, three firms are ranked in the top tier; seven firms have moved up a ranking level compared to last year; and an additional three firms are newly listed this year.

These data reveal several key trends: First, the dispute resolution market is highly competitive and rapidly evolving; second, the leading market players remain relatively stable, with little movement among law firms ranked in the top one or two tiers; and third, the dispute resolution landscape continues to see the emergence of new brands—several of which have already established significant reputations. Notably, three of the newly listed firms this year were founded within the past six years.

Some of the law firms on the list shared with ALB their recent business highlights, insights into market trends, talent development strategies, and perspectives on technological advancements.