China's Civil Code officially takes effect on Friday, replacing the country's previous standalone civil laws.

 

The Civil Code was passed on May 28, 2020 at the third session of the 13th National People's Congress, China's top legislature.

 

In addition to general and supplementary provisions, the Civil Code includes six parts on real rights, contracts, personality rights, marriage and family, inheritance, and tort liabilities.

 

It is the first Chinese law to carry the title "code" since the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949.