China’s Legal Landscape: Shaohe Law Firm Hosts Exclusive Seminar for Intern2China Interns

Intern2China Interns Discover China’s Legal Landscape at Shaohe Law Firm

Last week, the Benelux Chamber of Commerce in Shanghai had the pleasure of bringing together its Intern2China interns for an exclusive seminar hosted by our member Shaohe Law Firm at their Jin Mao Tower office. The event offered a fascinating introduction to the Chinese legal system, exploring how it came to be, and how it fundamentally differs from the West.

The session was led by Philip Lazare, whose engaging presentation took attendees on a journey through the historical evolution of law in both China and the West, looking to set the context as to why do these two legal systems are so different, and where do those differences actually come from.

From the philosophical and imperial foundations of Chinese law to the more codified traditions that shaped Western legal systems, Philip Lazare traced the diverging paths that have led to the frameworks we see today. The presentation then brought things into the present, examining distinct features of modern Chinese law and what that means for anyone working or doing business in China.

The seminar struck a balance of being intellectually rich yet thoroughly accessible. For young professionals navigating their first experience in China, the session provided invaluable context, helping them make sense of the environment they are operating in.

“I found it very insightful, it definitely helped me add some context to the day-to-day environment I work in!” said Joseph Hobbé, Procurement and Supply Chain intern at ELCEE.

Events like this are a testament to what makes the Intern2China program special. By connecting interns with experienced professionals from the Chamber’s member network, Intern2China goes beyond placing students in offices, it immerses them in the broader business and professional community of Shanghai. Shaohe Law Firm’s generosity in opening their doors and sharing their expertise is precisely the kind of member engagement that makes this community thrive.

The Benelux Chamber of Commerce in Shanghai extends its sincere thanks to Shaohe Law Firm and to Philip Lazare for an evening that was as thought-provoking as it was welcoming. We look forward to continuing to offer our Intern2China participants experiences that go beyond the day-to-day and help them truly understand the remarkable city and market they are now part of.