Introduction
One of the most common questions from foreign clients is how long litigation in China actually takes.
The answer depends on the type of dispute and whether enforcement is required afterward.
Typical Timeline in Practice
First Instance
Most commercial cases are resolved within 3 to 6 months.
Appeal Stage
If appealed, the case may take an additional 3 to 6 months.
Enforcement Stage
Enforcement duration varies significantly depending on asset availability.
What Affects the Duration
In real cases, the timeline depends on:
- Complexity of evidence
- Whether the defendant contests the case
- Court workload
- Whether assets are easy to locate
Practical Reality
In many cases, the litigation itself is not the longest part. Enforcement often takes longer than the court proceedings.
Conclusion
Most cross-border commercial disputes in China can be resolved within 6 to 12 months, but enforcement conditions are the real determining factor.