最高法：海事专家与法官联动破解涉外船舶碰撞赔偿难题

Core Viewpoint - A significant foreign-related ship collision dispute was resolved through a combination of administrative enforcement and commercial mediation, showcasing an effective "one-stop" dispute resolution mechanism [1][3]. Group 1: Case Background - On November 2017, a foreign cargo ship carrying over 70,000 tons of coal from Indonesia to China collided with a vessel owned by a Chinese shipping company, resulting in damage to both ships [1]. - The foreign vessel incurred nearly 15 million RMB in towing costs to ensure cargo safety after the collision, while the Chinese shipping company sought over 17 million RMB in damages for repair, delays, and lost revenue [1]. Group 2: Dispute Resolution Process - Both parties had significant flaws in their pre-litigation loss assessments, necessitating a court-appointed evaluation to determine damages [2]. - To alleviate the burden on the parties, the Xiamen Maritime Court initiated a "one-stop" dispute resolution mechanism, involving experts familiar with maritime accident investigations and loss assessments [2]. - A mediation team was formed, consisting of experienced maritime lawyers and investigators, which helped narrow the gap in the parties' litigation expectations [2]. Group 3: Mediation Outcome - The mediation led to a settlement where the foreign vessel agreed to compensate the Chinese shipping company with $335,000, which was paid within 15 working days [2]. - The case exemplified the effectiveness of a tripartite mediation mechanism involving maritime experts, the maritime court, and commercial mediation, providing a model for resolving similar complex maritime disputes at lower costs [3].