An international survey on commercial disputes has revealed that international arbitration remains the preferred form of global dispute resolution for cross-border commercial disputes. London and Paris are still the most preferred seats, and the leading Asian hubs cement their positions in the top tiers of arbitral centres.
The 2018 International Arbitration Survey conducted by the School of International Arbitration, Queen Mary University of London, is the fourth survey carried out in partnership with White & Case. This year’s survey is the most comprehensive yet, with record participation from stakeholders around the globe.
The survey explores “The Evolution of International Arbitration”: how international arbitration has evolved, the key areas for development in the future, and who and what will shape the future evolution of the field.
Findings include:
- The five most preferred arbitral institutions are still the ICC, LCIA, SIAC, HKIAC and SCC.
- 97% of respondents surveyed prefer international arbitration to resolve cross-border commercial disputes. 99% would choose or recommend international arbitration in the future.
- London and Paris remain the most preferred seats for international arbitration, followed by Singapore, Hong Kong, Geneva, New York and Stockholm.
- 55% of respondents predict London’s appeal as a seat of international arbitration will remain unchanged after Brexit.
- The majority of respondents feel progress has been made in respect of gender diversity on arbitral tribunals over the past five years, but a third or less believe this in respect of geographic, age, cultural and ethnic diversity.
- Information technology is widely used in international arbitration and respondents welcome increased use of such tools to aid efficiency.
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