The establishment of an Asia-Pacific Liaison Office of the International Institute for the Unification of Private Law (UNIDROIT) in Hong Kong signifies a vote of confidence in the city, said Paul Lam, secretary for justice of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government.

The office is expected to open in the second half of 2026, marking the first regional presence of UNIDROIT outside its seat in Rome in its 100-year history.

During an interview with China Global Television Network (CGTN), Lam said that this development is of critical importance in enhancing Hong Kong's status as an international legal service center.

"There are numerous choices, but ultimately, they have decided to set up the office in Hong Kong. That is a very significant vote of confidence in Hong Kong. The decision to set up the Asia-Pacific Liaison Office is a very important move to enhance the level of our cooperation, which is of critical importance in enhancing Hong Kong's status as an international legal service center," said Lam.

Hong Kong has already housed the Hague Conference on Private International Law Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific and the Department of Justice Project Office for Collaboration with United Nations Commission on International Trade Law.

Also, the International Organization for Mediation has its headquarters in the city.

"It is just sort of a snowball effect. Hopefully, it can enhance Hong Kong's reputation. It can attract more people to come to Hong Kong to use our legal service," Lam said.

UNIDROIT is a global intergovernmental body that works to align private and commercial laws across economies, especially in areas linked to international trade. With its Asia-Pacific office set to open in Hong Kong in the coming year, Lam believes the move will further strengthen the city's role as a regional hub for legal services and dispute resolution.