Introduction

It is my great pleasure to launch this TDM special edition on 'Alternative Dispute Resolution in Asia'. The expression 'Alternative Dispute Resolution' has to be understood in an expansive sense that includes negotiation, mediation / conciliation and arbitration, etc. Here, however, the focus is on commercial disputes. The subject is important not only for the fact that the 21 st century is considered to be the Asian Century in terms of ever growing economic activities and achievements in the region but also that the subject itself will have to be taken, in practice, ...