ICC Executive Board approves revised Rules of Arbitration

The revisions aim to enhance efficiency, clarity and usability, while ensuring that ICC Arbitration continues to meet the needs of users worldwide. They follow the previous update, which entered into force in January 2021, and reflect the ongoing evolution of arbitration practice.

The updated Rules introduce new procedures and improvements to existing provisions, with a focus on streamlining proceedings and supporting effective case management. At the same time, they preserve the flexibility that characterises ICC Arbitration, including the ability of parties to select arbitrators and tailor procedures within the framework of the Rules.

Claudia Salomon, President of the ICC International Court of Arbitration, said:

“The revised Rules reflect our commitment to ensuring ICC Arbitration meets the needs of businesses, states and state entities worldwide. ICC Arbitration gives parties the confidence to enter into agreements knowing that their disputes can be resolved fairly and effectively if they arise. These revisions make the Rules clearer and arbitration more efficient, while preserving the flexibility and procedural integrity that parties expect. Ultimately, the revised Rules ensure a trusted 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 – undertaken by the Bureau of the ICC Court and the ICC Secretariat, with input from the ICC Commission on Arbitration and ADR, ICC Court Members, and the ICC Governing Body for Dispute Resolution Services – are in line with commitments set out in the ICC Centenary Declaration on Dispute Prevention and Resolution, and reaffirm ICC’s leading, role in promoting efficient, neutral and trusted dispute resolution.

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

In a 2025 global arbitration survey, the ICC Arbitration Rules were ranked as the most preferred arbitration rules worldwide among more than 60 sets, and across all major regions.

The revised Rules will apply to all requests for arbitration filed on or after 1 June 2026. Users are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the updated provisions ahead of their entry into force, in particular where new procedural requirements may affect the filing of cases.

ICC will release the 2026 Arbitration Rules and provide further information and practical guidance to support users and practitioners in the lead-up to 1 June 2026.