Singapore: Litigation, Mediation & Arbitration

The 2025 SIAC Arbitration Rules introduce significant procedural innovations including Streamlined and Expedited Procedures, Preliminary Determination mechanisms, and enhanced Emergency Arbitrator frameworks. Understanding how these rules operate in practice—from initial filing through tribunal constitution, evidence presentation, and final award—is essential for parties navigating SIAC arbitration effectively.

The International Chamber of Commerce has unveiled its 2026 Arbitration Rules, introducing the most significant structural changes to ICC procedure in over a decade. The revised framework eliminates mandatory Terms of Reference, establishes express early determination mechanisms, and creates a highly expedited arbitration track capable of delivering awards within three months. These amendments fundamentally reshape the timing and strategy of ICC arbitrations for parties worldwide.

The Singapore High Court's decision in Aquilo Shipping Inc v SRTT Marine Trading & Services Pte Ltd examines the scope of the indemnity clause in the Norwegian Saleform 2012, determining whether sellers must proactively furnish security to release arrested vessels or merely reimburse buyers after they have paid.