The ICC Executive Committee approves the revised Rules of Arbitration

The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has approved a revised version of its Rules of Arbitration. The new Rules will enter into force on June 1, 2026.

These changes aim to enhance efficiency, clarity, and ease of use, while ensuring that ICC Arbitration continues to meet the needs of users worldwide. They build upon the previous update that took effect in January 2021 and reflect the ongoing evolution of arbitration practice.

The updated Rules introduce new procedures and improvements to existing provisions, focusing on streamlining proceedings and supporting effective case management. At the same time, they preserve the flexibility characteristic of ICC Arbitration, including the parties’ ability to appoint arbitrators and tailor procedures within the framework of the Rules.

Claudia Salomon, Chair of the ICC International Court of Arbitration, stated:

“The revised Rules reflect our commitment to ensuring that ICC Arbitration meets the needs of businesses, states, and state entities globally. ICC Arbitration gives parties the confidence to enter into agreements, knowing that their disputes can be resolved fairly and efficiently should they arise. These changes make the Rules clearer and arbitration more efficient, while maintaining the flexibility and procedural integrity that parties expect. Ultimately, the revised Rules provide a reliable dispute resolution process that underpins international trade and investment.”

To date, over 30,000 cases have been registered with the ICC International Court of Arbitration under the ICC Arbitration Rules. The latest revisions, carried out by the Bureau of the ICC Court and the ICC Secretariat with input from the ICC Commission on Arbitration and ADR, members of the ICC Court, and the ICC Dispute Resolution Services Governing Body, align with the commitments set out in the ICC Centenary Declaration on Preventing and Resolving Disputes and reaffirm ICC’s leading role in promoting effective, neutral, and reliable dispute resolution.

The approval of the new Rules comes amid continued active use of ICC Arbitration. In 2025, 881 cases were filed under the Rules, with the total value of pending disputes reaching 299 billion USD. The value of disputes ranged from just under 2,500 USD to 31 billion USD, reflecting the wide spectrum of cases administered by the ICC.

In a 2025 global arbitration survey, the ICC Arbitration Rules were recognized as the most popular arbitration rules worldwide among over 60 sets of rules and across all major regions.

The revised Rules will apply to all requests for arbitration submitted on or after June 1, 2026. Users are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the updated provisions before they take effect, particularly where new procedural requirements may impact case filings.

The ICC will publish the 2026 Arbitration Rules and provide additional information and practical guidance to support users and practitioners in preparing for June 1, 2026.

Source: https://iccwbo.org/