Interview with Zhiling Li, case-appointed mediator and mediation consultant at the Shanghai Eastern International Commercial Mediation Center

Zhiling Li, a Shanghai-based mediator who recently joined the Solis Mediation Center, agreed to an interview where she discussed her mediation career and the development of mediation in Shanghai. The interview was conducted during a friendly visit by Solis Mediation Center representative Daria Zhdan-Pushkina to the Shanghai Eastern International Commercial Mediation Center in March 2026.

We invite our readers to read the interview below:

1. What was your main motivation for choosing mediation as a career?

I would attribute my choice to three main factors.

First, becoming a mediator felt like a natural progression when I reflected on my early career. I began as a television journalist in a news program, where my role involved listening, facilitating communication, and, at times, helping to identify solutions. In hindsight, this is quite similar to the role of a mediator, although I only fully realized this after entering the field.

Second, in a way, mediation chose me. I was given an opportunity to organize the 3rd ICC–HK Mediation Competition in 2024 as the PM to assist Dr. Christopher To (the Chair) after a three-year hiatus. That challenging and rewarding experience inspired me to pursue mediation more seriously.

Third, I am particularly drawn to the interdisciplinary nature of mediation. It is a field that combines law, communication, psychology, and business, and one that invites continuous reflection and research.

2. What is the name of the mediation center where you work, and what types of disputes does it specialise in?

I serve as a mediation consultant at the Shanghai Eastern International Commercial Mediation Center, and I am also one of the two consultants in its Department of Planning and Development.

The center was designated with the code “001” by the Ministry of Justice in 2025. It focuses primarily on commercial disputes, including those relating to construction, corporate matters, maritime issues, investment, banking and finance, and intellectual property and etc.

3. How popular is mediation in your city?

Commercial mediation is becoming increasingly recognized among business entities in Shanghai. As more successful cases emerge, parties are beginning to appreciate mediation as a more efficient and cost-effective alternative to litigation and arbitration.

With the new Regulations on Commercial Mediation coming into force on 1 May 2026, I believe the use of mediation will continue to grow significantly.

4. What types of disputes are you most often approached for as a mediator?

So far, I have primarily handled intellectual property disputes and contract disputes. All of my cases have been commercial in nature, rather than family or employment-related disputes.

5. Can you share a successful case resolved through mediation at your center?

Due to the principle of confidentiality in mediation, I will share one case that has been publicly released on our official WeChat platform.

A dispute arose following an employee’s exit from an equity incentive scheme, where the employee held shares indirectly through a limited partnership platform. The partnership agreement provided that the employee “may” transfer their interest, and the platform “may” repurchase it if no transferee was found. After resignation, disagreements over these provisions led to a deadlock and potential arbitration.

The case was successfully mediated by the Shanghai Eastern International Commercial Mediation Center. The mediator identified key legal uncertainties on both sides and shifted the focus from legal confrontation to a practical commercial solution. Ultimately, an internal employee agreed to acquire the interest at a reasonable price.

The outcome achieved a “triple-win”: the departing employee exited efficiently, the company avoided legal and operational risks, and the transferee gained a valuable investment opportunity.

6. What are the main barriers to promoting mediation?

There are three main challenges in my view.

First, path dependence: many parties are accustomed to resolving disputes through litigation or arbitration.

Second, the need for highly skilled mediators: building public trust requires professionalism and credibility.

Third, the legal framework is still evolving, particularly in relation to enforcement. This is why international instruments such as the Singapore Convention on Mediation are so important.

7. What are the most effective ways to promote mediation?

One effective approach is to integrate the concept of mediation into everyday life. For example, Hong Kong’s “Mediate First” initiative has been promoted for over a decade. When people become more familiar with mediation, they are more likely to consider it as a natural option when disputes arise.

In addition, a strong legal infrastructure is essential, as it provides assurance and protection for parties engaging in mediation.

8. How do government agencies and associations in your city support the development of mediation?

Government bodies play a key role by enacting local regulations and developing model rules and codes of conduct, thereby establishing a formal legal framework that enhances the legitimacy and professionalism of mediation.

Shanghai’s mediation development is driven by coordinated efforts among multiple agencies, including the Shanghai High People’s Court, Shanghai Municipal Bureau of Justice, Shanghai Commission of Commerce, and the Shanghai Federation of Industry and Commerce. These bodies jointly issue policies to promote high-quality mediation services and align them with broader business environment strategies.

Associations and industry organizations also play a vital role. For example, our center was jointly initiated by the Shanghai Arbitration Commission, Shanghai Bar Association, Shanghai Notary Association, Shanghai Intellectual Property Services Association, and the Shanghai General Chamber of Commerce, demonstrating a collaborative model between professional bodies and industry stakeholders.