Xiamen International Trade Group Co., Ltd. v. LinkGlobal Food Inc.
LinkGlobal Food Inc.
Law Firm / Organization
Gowling WLG (Canada) LLP
Lawyer(s)

David Woodfield

Xiamen International Trade Group Co., Ltd.
Law Firm / Organization
Whelton Hiutin LLP
Lawyer(s)

Wei Jiang

Key Points:

  1. Nature of the Case:
    • The case concerns the enforcement of an international arbitral award in Ontario.
    • The appellant sought an adjournment to gather evidence from former legal counsel in China regarding alleged failures of natural justice in the arbitration process.
  2. Application Judge's Decision:
    • The request for adjournment was denied based on factors from Ariston Realty Corp. v. Elcarim Inc.
    • The judge emphasized the limited scope for refusing enforcement of international arbitration awards.
    • Judgment was granted in favor of enforcing the arbitral award due to lack of compelling evidence or substantive submissions from the appellant.
  3. Appeal Grounds:
    • The appellant's appeal primarily focused on the denial of the adjournment request.
    • The appellant acknowledged the correct application of discretionary decision-making factors but argued the decision contradicted the interests of justice.
  4. Court of Appeal's Ruling:
    • The court found no error in the application judge's ruling.
    • It was noted that the appellant had ample time to secure evidence but failed to do so.
    • The appellant did not provide a sufficient explanation for its inaction.
    • Concern for prejudice against the respondent due to further delays was valid.
    • The appeal was dismissed as there were no substantive arguments beyond the adjournment issue.
  5. Disposition:
    • Appeal dismissed.
    • Costs of $17,500 awarded to the respondent.
Court of Appeal for Ontario
COA-23-CV-1336
Corporate & commercial law
$ 17,500
Respondent