Arbitration Proceedings at the International Commercial Arbitration Court under the RF CCI: A Reliable Solution for Business
Author: Pavel Chukavin, Managing Partner of Turkish International Law & Consulting Firm
Our company, Turkish International Law & Consulting Firm, specializes in providing high-quality legal services aimed at protecting the interests of businesses in Russia, Turkey, and on the international stage. One of the key tools we recommend to our clients for the effective resolution of commercial disputes is the arbitration proceedings at the International Commercial Arbitration Court under the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Russian Federation (ICAC). In this article, I, Pavel Chukavin, drawing on my over 20 years of experience in international arbitration, will discuss the advantages of ICAC, the specifics of its proceedings, and why choosing this arbitration institution is the optimal solution for businesses.
What is ICAC and Why is it Important?
The International Commercial Arbitration Court (ICAC) under the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Russian Federation is Russia’s leading arbitration institution, established in 1932 as the Foreign Trade Arbitration Commission. Over its 90-year history, ICAC has handled more than 10,000 cases, making it one of the largest and most authoritative arbitration centers in the world. ICAC specializes in resolving international commercial disputes, as well as domestic, corporate, and sports disputes, ensuring independence, impartiality, and professionalism in every case.
ICAC has been a member of the International Federation of Commercial Arbitration Institutions (IFCAI) since 1999, confirming its compliance with global arbitration standards. For businesses, this means that ICAC decisions are recognized and enforceable in 169 countries worldwide under the 1958 New York Convention. As a participant in international arbitration proceedings, including cases at ICAC, I can confirm that this institution provides a reliable platform for the fair resolution of disputes.
Specifics of Arbitration Proceedings at ICAC
Arbitration proceedings at ICAC are governed by the Russian Federation Law “On International Commercial Arbitration” dated July 7, 1993, No. 5338-1, as well as the ICAC Rules, which are regularly updated to meet modern requirements. The latest version of the arbitration rules came into effect on October 23, 2024, with certain provisions applying to cases filed from January 1, 2025.
Key Stages of the Arbitration Process:
Filing a Statement of Claim. The claimant submits a statement to ICAC, specifying the subject of the dispute, claims, and evidence. The arbitration fee is payable in Russian rubles or, at the claimant’s discretion, in U.S. dollars at the exchange rate set by the Central Bank of the Russian Federation on the payment date.
Formation of the Arbitral Tribunal. The parties may independently select arbitrators from an approved list, which is updated by the RF CCI every five years. If the parties fail to agree, arbitrators are appointed by the President of the RF CCI.
Case Hearing. The process may be conducted based on written materials or with oral hearings. ICAC ensures confidentiality and procedural flexibility, allowing parties to choose the language of proceedings and applicable law.
Issuance of the Award. The ICAC award is final and binding. It may be challenged only in exceptional cases provided for by law.
Advantages of ICAC for Businesses
Speed and Efficiency. Arbitration proceedings at ICAC take significantly less time than litigation in state courts due to the absence of appellate instances.
Professionalism of Arbitrators. The ICAC arbitrator list includes leading lawyers and experts with extensive knowledge of international and Russian law. As an arbitration manager, I highly value their competence and impartiality.
Procedural Flexibility. Parties can tailor the process to their needs, including the choice of venue, language, and procedural rules.
International Recognition. ICAC awards are recognized in most countries worldwide, which is particularly important for companies engaged in cross-border activities, such as our clients in Russia and Turkey.
Cost-Effectiveness. ICAC arbitration fees are competitive compared to other international arbitration centers, making it attractive for businesses.
Why Turkish International Law & Consulting Firm Recommends ICAC?
At Turkish International Law & Consulting Firm, we understand the importance of a reliable dispute resolution mechanism for businesses. ICAC offers a unique opportunity to resolve conflicts quickly and professionally, minimizing risks and costs. Our firm actively supports clients at all stages of the arbitration process: from drafting arbitration clauses to representing interests at ICAC and enforcing awards. My experience working in the Legislative Assembly of St. Petersburg and participating in international arbitration proceedings enables us to effectively protect our clients’ interests in the most complex disputes.
Recommended arbitration clause for inclusion in contracts:
“Any disputes, disagreements, or claims arising out of or in connection with this contract, including those relating to its performance, breach, termination, or invalidity, shall be resolved at the International Commercial Arbitration Court under the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Russian Federation in accordance with its Rules.”
ICAC Practice: Examples and Statistics
An analysis of ICAC practice shows a steady increase in the number of cases involving large claim amounts. Over the past five years, the share of disputes with claims exceeding USD 10 million has risen from 3.5% to 23%. In 2020–2022, ICAC handled 621, 860, and 652 cases, respectively, surpassing the figures of centers such as the London Court of International Arbitration and the Arbitration Institute of the Stockholm Chamber of Commerce. Scholarly and practical commentaries by M.G. Rozenberg (1995–2005) confirm that ICAC effectively applies international arbitration standards, ensuring predictability and fairness of decisions.
Conclusion
The International Commercial Arbitration Court under the RF CCI is a time-tested institution that combines professionalism, flexibility, and international recognition. For businesses seeking efficient dispute resolution, ICAC is an ideal choice. At Turkish International Law & Consulting Firm, we are ready to provide comprehensive support in arbitration proceedings, leveraging our experience and deep understanding of ICAC procedures. Contact us via our website https://rt-union.com/en to discuss how we can help protect your interests.