SIAC is an independent, neutral and not-for-profit global arbitration institution which provides case management services to the international business community. In terms of its international administered caseload, SIAC is amongst the Top 5 institutions in the world.

No. In its position as an independent and neutral arbitration institution, SIAC does not act on behalf of any party in arbitration proceedings, nor does it provide any legal advice.

• Arbitration is a less formal process than court litigation, and it is conducted in private, away from the glare of the media and the public.
• Parties to the arbitration, as well as arbitrators, are generally obliged to maintain the confidentiality of all matters relating to the arbitration proceedings and the arbitration award.
• Parties are free to appoint their own arbitrators, engage their preferred counsel and choose the procedures and rules for the conduct of an arbitration.
• Parties are generally assured of finality once the arbitration award is issued as there are limited avenues for appeal against an arbitration award.
• The arbitration process can be more cost-effective and efficient than court litigation.

Singapore has a reputation, not only as a hub for transnational trade and investment, but also as a key neutral venue for the resolution of cross-border disputes.

Singapore is also one of the most preferred seats of arbitration in the world.² A number of factors have contributed to this popularity:

• comprehensive legal infrastructure that is supportive of arbitration, including the adoption of the UNCITRAL Model Law on International Commercial Arbitration (1985);
• robust and efficient legal system, as well as a judiciary that is supportive of arbitration;
• convenient geographical location and political neutrality;
• use of technology and availability of infrastructure that supports new technology;
• world-class facilities and services at Maxwell Chambers for arbitration hearings; and enforceability of Singapore-issued arbitral awards in more than 150 countries through the Convention on the Recognition and Enforcement of Foreign Arbitral Awards (New York, 1958) (New York Convention) (subject to any local/domestic legislation and/or requirements.

SIAC administers a wide range of disputes, including, among others, corporate and commercial, trade and investment, construction/engineering, shipping/maritime, insurance, intellectual property, and banking and finance.

Yes. On 1 January 2017, SIAC released the first edition of the Investment Arbitration Rules of the Singapore International Arbitration Centre (IA Rules 2017). The IA Rules 2017 can be applied by agreement in disputes involving a State, State-controlled entity or intergovernmental organisation, whether arising out of a contract, treaty, statute or other instrument.

SIAC has also administered investment disputes under the SIAC Rules and served as the appointing authority in investment disputes under the UNCITRAL Arbitration Rules.