International commercial arbitration is one of the most rapidly developing areas of legal regulation in the context of globalization of the world economy. With the continuous growth of cross-border trade and international investments, the need for effective dispute resolution mechanisms becomes undeniable.
International arbitration is an alternative method of resolving commercial disputes between parties from different countries, based on their voluntary agreement. Unlike state courts, arbitration offers the participants more flexible procedures, confidentiality, the ability to choose arbitrators with specific expertise, and a neutral venue for resolving disputes.
Differences Between International Arbitration and State Courts
When Can Parties Submit a Dispute to International Arbitration?
To have a dispute resolved through international arbitration, the contract between the parties must include an arbitration clause. This clause must be clearly worded and should provide for:
- The parties’ consent to arbitration;
- The name of the arbitration institution or reference to ad hoc arbitration;
- The seat of arbitration (arbitral jurisdiction);
- The language of the proceedings;
- The applicable law.
A properly drafted arbitration clause is a key element for a successful hearing and the subsequent enforcement of the arbitral award.
Leading International Arbitration Institutions
International commercial arbitration is governed by both the internal rules of arbitration institutions and international treaties. The most authoritative arbitration bodies include:
- International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) – one of the most recognized arbitration institutions with extensive global practice;
- London Court of International Arbitration (LCIA) – a respected institution with independent procedures and strict standards;
- Singapore International Arbitration Centre (SIAC) – a rapidly developing forum in Asia with transparent and efficient rules;
- Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre (HKIAC);
- Arbitration Institute of the Stockholm Chamber of Commerce (SCC);
- Stockholm International Arbitration (SIMA) – a popular jurisdiction for disputes involving CIS countries;
- International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) – for resolving disputes between investors and states;
- International Commercial Arbitration Court at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Russian Federation (ICAC at the RF CCI) – the leading arbitration institution in Russia for international disputes involving Russian and foreign companies.
These institutions ensure independent and fair adjudication of disputes based on principles of voluntariness, neutrality, and procedural safeguards.
How DTK Partners Assists in International Arbitration
The law firm DTK Partners offers a full range of services in the field of international commercial arbitration, including:
- Drafting and reviewing arbitration clauses;
- Advising on the choice of arbitration institution and jurisdiction;
- Representing clients in proceedings before the ICC, LCIA, SIAC, and other institutions;
- Assisting with enforcement of arbitral awards in various countries;
- Supporting clients at all stages of the dispute — from pre-trial preparation to final enforcement.
We protect our clients’ interests in complex cross-border disputes involving supply contracts, construction, investments, corporate conflicts, and more. With our experience, international practice, and strategic approach, we ensure reliable legal support and effective resolution of disputes in arbitration.
International commercial arbitration with DTK Partners means reliability, professionalism, and confidence in the result.