Legislative developments in personal insolvency in China’s mainland: A comparative analysis of regional practices in China’s mainland, Hong Kong, and Taiwan Region

Abstract

With the ongoing implementation of personal insolvency practices in China’s mainland, the realization of a nationwide personal insolvency system in China’s mainland no longer appears distant. In the design of specific personal insolvency schemes, key elements to consider are establishing entry criteria, assessing the integrity of debtors, determining the duration of the discharge examination period, setting the length of the blocking period for subsequent insolvencies. Additionally, the availability of a simplified procedure for personal insolvency should also be considered. By analysing 12 official documents from regional practices in China's mainland and comparing them with corresponding regulations in Taiwan Region ("Taiwan") and Hong Kong, we can draw valuable experiences and identify shortcomings. This effort aims to lay the foundation for a unified personal insolvency system in the future of China’s mainland.