China Permits Certain Lawsuits Against Foreign Nations

China recently passed a law permitting Chinese courts to hear lawsuits against foreign governments, ending the nation's policy of absolute state immunity. A spokesperson for the Ministry of Commerce said that the law "affirms the fundamental principle that a foreign State and its property enjoy immunity in China," while noting that certain exceptions now exist for disputes involving "a commercial activity, relevant personal injury and property damage." The spokesperson said the law complies with international legal rules.