Summary
Safety fears in Hong Kong have prompted firms to shift arbitration hearings out of the Chinese-ruled city, industry sources said, another sign that pro-democracy protests are denting its appeal as an international business hub.
Australian mining firm Kingsgate said last month it had moved hearings related to a dispute with the Thai government from Hong Kong to Singapore early next year over safety concerns.
Lawyers say at least two other cases have moved their hearings from Hong Kong to Singapore because of the unrest, adding that more could follow.
If Hong Kong laws are chosen as the framework for arbitration -- making it the "seat" for the case -- its courts will have supervisory powers over the arbitration even if the proceedings are held elsewhere.
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