Originally published in Michigan Lawyers Weekly - Vol. 26, No. 49, October 8, 2012.

Economic activity inevitably generates disputes, and economic activity between parties in China and the U.S. is no exception. But where should those disputes be resolved?

Resolution in the national courts of China or the United States often is not a viable option. There is no treaty compelling a Chinese court to enforce the judgment of a court in the U.S., or requiring a U.S. court to enforce the judgment of a Chinese court.