Cooperation agreement looks to strengthen dispute resolution in LATAM

Under the agreement, ICC Dispute Resolution Services and the Centre for Arbitration and Conciliation of CCB will strengthen the international dispute resolution ecosystem and generating tangible benefits for companies, arbitrators and users of the arbitration system through three key areas of cooperation:

• Promote ICC dispute resolution services, including arbitration and ADR, in Latin America through joint initiatives and coordinated outreach activities, helping to raise awareness of international standards and reinforce confidence in arbitration as an effective means of resolving cross‑border disputes.
• Collaborate on high-level educational and knowledge-building activities, including conferences, trainings, workshops and courses focused on dispute resolution. These activities are intended to support capacity‑building and professional development for arbitration practitioners, users and stakeholders in the region. Including the ICC-FIDIC Conference that will take place in Bogotá, at CCB on 15-16 October 2026.
• Provide preferential access to hearing facilities. CCB and ICC will make their hearing centre available for ICC and CCB administered proceedings and offer special rates to these parties, improving efficiency and accessibility for hearings in Bogotá, São Paulo and Paris.

The agreement builds on ICC’s long‑standing engagement in Latin America and recognises the important role played by CCB in the region. By combining ICC’s global dispute resolution expertise with CCB’s strong local presence and infrastructure, the cooperation supports the continued development of arbitration and other dispute resolution mechanisms aligned with international standards.

“By deepening our cooperation in Latin America, ICC is supporting the continued development of efficient, high‑quality dispute resolution services aligned with international best practices. Our partnership with the Chamber of Commerce of Bogotá demonstrates how global and regional institutions can work together to deliver meaningful benefits for arbitration users.”

Alexander Fessas, Director of ICC Dispute Resolution Services; Secretary General of the ICC International Court of Arbitration

“At the heart of this cooperation is the power of networks — bringing together ICC’s global community and the Chamber of Commerce of Bogotá’s strong regional connections to expand opportunities, share expertise and support the continued development of dispute resolution across Latin America.”

Julian Kassum, ICC Deputy Secretary General – Networks

“This collaboration will strengthen arbitration for business. It brings together two institutions with a proven track record of advancing alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, and this partnership is poised to deliver meaningful benefits for both the legal and business communities.”

Ovidio Claros Polanco, Executive President, Bogotá Chamber of Commerce

“This partnership will enable us to promote international best practices, foster greater confidence in the business sector, and consolidate Bogotá and the region as leaders in the efficient, specialised and secure resolution of disputes.”

Gustavo Andrés Piedrahita, Director, Centre for Arbitration and Conciliation of the Bogotá Chamber of Commerce