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A new ICC–Oxera report reveals the staggering global cost of unresolved commercial disputes, which drain liquidity, suppress investment, and weaken trust in markets. The study highlights how affordable, digital dispute resolution can unlock growth, especially for SMEs, and strengthen justice as essential economic infrastructure.

As global power shifts toward fragmented multipolarity, trade is increasingly shaped by geopolitics, security, and strategic autonomy. Businesses must navigate competing rules, supply-chain risks, and political pressures to remain competitive in an era of geo-economic fragmentation.

Paperless trade is no longer a distant aspiration; It is today’s most practical lever for cutting cost, time, and risk in cross-border commerce.

Bas van Zelst is a partner at Enhance Arbitration, a law firm dedicated exclusively to arbitration. Enhance provides (co-)counsel, arbitration and advisory services. He is also a member of the ICC Netherlands Arbitration & Dispute Resolution Committee. In this article, he talks about the main definitions and characteristics of arbitration – and how these differ from litigation. He also outlines what makes the Netherlands an attractive seat of arbitration, and shares his thoughts on the link between arbitration and peace.

As world leaders prepare to meet in Belém for COP30, ICC calls on governments to turn climate ambition into economic delivery. Representing over 45 million companies, ICC urges concrete action on finance, adaptation and market integrity to unlock private investment and make the transition to net zero a driver of growth and resilience.

The Week of Integrity 2025 brought together organizations across sectors to explore how integrity strengthens culture, trust, and sustainable growth. From the launch of the new Book of Integrity to inspiring partner initiatives and thought-provoking dialogues, the week proved that integrity is a year-round capability, not just a one-week commitment.

Built on over USD 25 trillion in transaction data, the ICC Trade Register 2025 offers the most comprehensive insight into global trade and supply chain finance. Its findings confirm trade finance as a low-risk, high-impact asset class—and show how data-driven evidence continues to shape smarter regulation, sustainability, and competitiveness worldwide.

A new ICC–Sage report reveals that while SMEs are leading on sustainability ambition, access to green finance remains critically low. The study calls for digital solutions, simpler reporting, and smarter policy to unlock the trillions needed for small businesses to drive the global net-zero transition.

As the UN prepares to launch a new Global Mechanism on cybersecurity, ICC urges governments to pair decisive action with business expertise to strengthen global cyber resilience. The private sector, operating on the front lines of digital defense, must be meaningfully included to ensure policies are practical, inclusive, and future-proof.

At the ICC Dispute Resolution Forum on 7 October, experts explored how culture, trust, and human behaviour shape cross-border business disputes. The discussions revealed that resolving conflicts effectively starts long before the contract is signed.

From trade digitalisation to sustainability and WTO reform, one message keeps returning: ambition is high, but the system must move faster. A reflection on clarity, trust, and cooperation, and why bringing people together still matters most.

At the WTO Public Forum 2025, ICC Netherlands joined global leaders to address one key question: how can we rebuild trust in global trade?
From digitalization to AI and sustainability, the call for WTO reform has never been more pressing.

"The Netherlands stands at a crossroads. If we embrace circularity at scale, we can future-proof our economy, strengthen our resilience, and prove that sustainability and competitiveness can go hand in hand".

Global trade is at a crossroads. Rising protectionism, geopolitical tensions and stalled reforms threaten the stability of the rules-based system that underpins Dutch and international business. In this interview, Valerie Picard, ICC’s Head of Trade, explains why urgent WTO reform is needed, what “revitalising the global trading system” means in practice, and how Dutch companies can play a leadership role in shaping the future of trade.

ICC Netherlands, together with a broad coalition of companies, banks and business associations, has presented a whitepaper to the Dutch Parliament calling for swift adoption of the UNCITRAL Model Law on Electronic Transferable Records (MLETR) – a move that will cut costs, reduce delays and strengthen the Netherlands’ competitive position.

ICC Nederland heeft samen met een brede coalitie van bedrijven, banken en brancheorganisaties een whitepaper aangeboden aan de Tweede Kamer om snelle invoering van de UNCITRAL Model Law on Electronic Transferable Records (MLETR) te bevorderen – een stap die kosten bespaart, doorlooptijden verkort en de concurrentiepositie van Nederland versterkt.

Business has a crucial role to play in tackling climate change – not only by reducing risks but by creating opportunities. Real-world examples from companies of all sizes show policymakers and peers that innovation and investment can deliver climate solutions at scale. That’s why ICC is calling on businesses to share their stories as part of its global climate campaign ahead of COP30. By showcasing successes and lessons learned, we can inspire action, remove barriers, and make the case for the enabling policies needed to accelerate the clean transition.

Climate change is already costing the global economy trillions, yet adaptation finance continues to lag far behind what is needed. A new ICC–Oxera report highlights how the private sector can play a decisive role in closing this gap. With public funds alone insufficient, innovative instruments, better risk data, and enabling regulation are essential to unlock private investment at scale.
As the official voice of business in the UN climate process, ICC will bring these recommendations to COP30 in Belém to advocate for a stronger role of business in building global climate resilience.

ICC is advocating for predictable, stable global tax rules to support cross-border trade and investment at the first rounds of United Nations Tax Framework Convention talks. Taxpayer rights, rigorous economic analysis, clarity on new instruments and effective dispute prevention and resolution were championed as key priorities for business.

The International Chamber of Commerce has issued the following statement at the conclusion of the latest round of intergovernmental negotiations on a proposed UN plastics treaty:

As the frequency and severity of climate-related events escalate, there is a growing consensus that mitigation alone is insufficient. Adaptation must play a central role in securing resilience. To support this shift, the new ICC-commissioned Oxera report assesses how the private sector’s role in climate adaptation can be strengthened and scaled. The report is intended to inform ICC’s advocacy as the official UNFCCC Focal Point for Business and Industry in the lead-up to COP30 in Belém.

Emerging markets and developing economies need US$450–550 billion in additional annual climate finance by 2030, but private flows are declining. ICC’s new policy brief shows how targeted reforms to the Basel III framework could unlock 3–4 times more private investment in climate-aligned projects. Ahead of COP30, ICC is calling for a structured dialogue with regulators to ensure climate finance flows to where it is most urgently needed.

This ICC policy paper highlights how divergent AI regulations across countries can lead to fragmented global markets and increased business costs. ICC calls for greater coordination on the development of international, market-driven AI standards, to bridge legal differences, reduce compliance burdens, improve market access and enhance cross-border innovation.

Integrity at borders is fundamental to sustainable trade and economic growth. A new joint International Chamber of Commerce-World Customs Organization paper highlights how trade facilitation – by digitalising processes, reducing complexities and increasing transparency – can be a powerful tool for fighting corruption.

The ICC Anti-corruption Clause is a voluntary contractual provision that companies can include in their commercial agreements, whereby they undertake to comply with the 2023 ICC Rules on Combating Corruption or commit to put in place and maintain an anti-corruption compliance programme.

At the June 2025 Bonn Climate Conference, business leaders led by the ICC called for urgent action to remove regulatory and financial barriers, scale up adaptation, and support high-integrity carbon markets. With COP30 nearing, they urged governments to align with 1.5°C goals and shift from talk to action, emphasizing that the private sector is ready but needs the right conditions.

ICC urges targeted reforms to global banking rules, especially Basel III, to unlock climate finance for emerging markets. The brief proposes near-term fixes and deeper changes to ease capital barriers without risking financial stability.

At the FfD4 conference in Seville, the ICC called for practical, private sector-led financing to achieve the SDGs, urging action beyond symbolic commitments. With the “Compromiso de Sevilla” agreed, ICC is pushing for greater business input on SME investment, tax reform, and climate finance.

At the National Committee (NC) Strategic Session held during We are ICC Week 2025, ICC unveiled its most ambitious initiative in recent years: Project Phoenix. Introduced by ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton following a high-level panel with Shinta Kamdani, Arancha González, and Andrew Wilson, the launch framed ICC’s response to deepening geopolitical and economic uncertainty.

Over 80 businesses and networks joined an ICC-led declaration at UNOC3, urging urgent action to protect ocean health as key to climate resilience and economic prosperity. The Business Call to Action outlines commitments and policy asks to scale sustainable ocean solutions and is open for more support.

The European Commission has withdrawn the Green Claims Directive after concerns over burdens on SMEs, marking a key advocacy win for ICC and its members. ICC now invites businesses to help shape future sustainability marketing policies that are credible, practical, and innovation-friendly.

Alex Krijger, a historian and geopolitical advisor, says the 2025 NATO Summit was a turning point, with Europe finally stepping up to take more responsibility for its own security. He believes the world is shifting toward a new global balance of power, and Europe needs to build fairer relationships with the Global South, rethink old institutions, and broaden its view beyond just Western perspectives.

From 16–19 June, #WeAreICC Week brought together over 200 ICC representatives and leaders from 85 countries in Paris for a dynamic series of strategy and governance meetings. Highlights included the annual meeting of the ICC World Council, chaired by Philippe Varin, and a gathering of the ICC Executive Board.

The annual ICC Dispute Resolution Statistics offer a comprehensive overview of disputes submitted to the ICC International Court of Arbitration and the ICC International Centre for ADR. They provide an in-depth breakdown of the numbers and global reach of ICC Arbitration and other ICC Dispute Resolution Services worldwide.

A culture of integrity doesn’t come solely through regulations; it thrives on trust, transparency, and psychological safety. Psychological safety—where individuals can speak up and raise concerns without fear—is the foundation of a strong compliance culture.

A group of leading Trade Finance banks have announced their endorsement of the International Chamber of Commerce’s (ICC) Principles for Sustainable Trade Finance (ICC PSTF). This group, and further supporting banks, collectively represent as much as 25% of the global trade finance market by volume.

The Arbitration Rules of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) have been named the world’s preferred arbitration rules in a global survey investigating current trends in user preferences and perceptions.

Cross-border data flows are essential for efficient global supply chains, enabling real-time coordination and logistics across borders. ICC provides concrete recommendations to align policies with operational realities and keep trade flowing.

In a joint Business Call to Action more than 80 businesses and supporting organisations from 25 countries, including 55 businesses representing over €600 billion in turnover and 2 million employees, urged both private and public decisions-makers to strengthen global cooperation and accelerate action to conserve and sustainably use the ocean.

New ICC brief outlines why tariffs on cross-border services are unworkable and what policymakers should do instead.

Speaking live in an interview on Bloomberg’s Balance of Power show with hosts Kailey Leinz and Joe Mathieu, ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO discussed current trade policy tensions and what it means for the international business community.

Sustainability is everywhere – but what does it really mean for a business to be sustainable? And who gets to define it? To get some answers, we spoke to Ed Gillespie, whose credentials involve nearly three decades at the forefront of sustainability.

In the previous issue of this newsletter we heard that the USA represents just 13% of global trade. In our conversation with Secretary General of ICC United Kingdom Chris Southworth, he said that “we need to focus on the remaining 87% of the global trade system.”

On 28 May, ICC Netherlands joined forces with CMS and the Academy of Legal Mediation for a highly interactive and well-attended afternoon dedicated to exploring the strategic use of mediation in commercial disputes.

The ICC convened a timely briefing to update business stakeholders on the UN-led process to negotiate a new Framework Convention on International Tax Cooperation.

In response to a US proposal to increase tariffs on European Union goods, ICC is calling for redoubled ongoing efforts to renew the US-EU trade relationship.

As global trade becomes increasingly politicised, polarised, and unpredictable, how should businesses respond? On 20 May, ICC Netherlands gathered leading voices from business, policy, and finance to explore the realities—and responsibilities—of trading in a multipolar world. What emerged was a clear message: navigating complexity isn’t optional, it’s strategic.

The Dutch government has taken an important first step in the digitalisation of trade by submitting a bill to Parliament that formally recognises the legal validity of electronic bills of lading (eBLs).

Mediation under the World Trade Organization (WTO) Dispute Settlement Understanding can help governments resolve trade frictions faster, cheaper and more constructively – if they’re willing to use it. ICC is making the case.

Organisations are often well-insured against rare events like fires but underestimate the frequent and damaging risks of integrity violations such as fraud or misconduct; investing in a strong integrity culture and internal reporting procedures is essential for early detection and reduced harm.

Danielle Dielissen shows how personal background shapes integrity in business and emphasizes self-awareness, role models, and diversity to uphold ethical behavior across cultures.

At the 2025 ICC meeting, key updates were shared on advancing ethical advertising practices, including new policies on responsible AI use, environmental claims, and marketing to children—emphasizing the importance of transparency, inclusivity, and public trust.

The UN Global Compact Network Netherlands and the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) are launching the Business Integrity Accelerator (BIA)—a global program designed to help companies move beyond compliance and embed integrity into their core strategy and operations.

Amid rising geopolitical tension, mediation is gaining traction in international contracts—but its effectiveness depends on clear wording and local legal interpretation.

Incoterms® 2020 help businesses manage tariff and compliance risks in global trade by clearly defining who is responsible for transport, insurance, and customs duties. Strategic use can reduce seller exposure to tariffs, making these terms crucial tools in navigating today’s volatile trade environment.

A recent ICC Pulse Survey reveals growing concern among global
businesses following the U.S. administration’s 2 April 2025 announcement
of sweeping new tariff measures.

President Trump’s trade war has disrupted global trade, but according to Chris Southworth (ICC UK), it also presents an opportunity for other countries—who make up the bulk of global trade—to strengthen cooperation, accelerate digitalisation, and build a more resilient system.

The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) conducted a pulse survey of its global business network from 3 -11 April 2025. The Survey assesses the impact of newly announced U.S. tariff measures.

The ICC International Maritime Bureau (IMB) has revealed a rise in global piracy and armed robbery incidents in the first quarter of 2025 – driven by a spike of incidents in the Singapore Straits.

In this candid interview, a regional director in France reflects on the lasting impact of a workplace harassment case, which challenged her views on leadership and integrity. Two years later, she sees integrity not as a fixed ideal, but as a daily commitment to psychological safety, accountability, and readiness.

At the 2025 OECD Global Anti-Corruption and Integrity Forum, ICC hosted a side event to boost business-government collaboration on integrity, highlighting tools like updated anti-corruption clauses. Forum discussions focused on bribery solicitation, tech-driven anti-corruption efforts, integrity in the green transition, and public-private cooperation for fairer global markets.

ICC Netherlands has partnered with Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam to enhance stakeholder engagement and share insights on integrity, compliance, and anti-corruption. The collaboration merges academic research with ICC’s global business network to drive practical, evidence-based solutions.

At its March 2025 meeting, the ICC Taxation Commission tackled global tax challenges, including UN reforms, digital economy rules, and OECD compliance amid rising geopolitical tensions. The Commission stressed inclusive dialogue and business input to help shape a clear, practical international tax framework.

The ICC recently conducted a two-day advanced dispute resolution training in the Netherlands, bringing together over 40 legal and business professionals to explore strategies for handling complex commercial disputes.

At the ICC Global Environment & Energy Commission meeting, business leaders emphasized the urgent need for sustainable climate action amid rising geopolitical and economic uncertainties, while reaffirming the private sector’s key role in driving this transition.

Following the announcement of the US reciprocal tariff plan, the International Chamber of Commerce has issued a statement describing the new measures as a shock to the global trading system that need not result in a systemic crisis.

UN-led tax reforms, digital economy protocols, and OECD challenges headline a pivotal Commission meeting. The ICC Taxation Commission’s March 2025 meeting convened at a critical moment for global tax policy. Against the backdrop of growing geopolitical instability and fragmentation in international trade, ICC members gathered to address urgent developments in global taxation frameworks, digital economy protocols, and regional policy shifts.

Michael Every from Rabobank explains that the current geopolitical situation poses a major systemic shock threatening international trade, comparable but opposite to the end of the Cold War. Companies can either ignore these changes or adapt, but options are limited and often conflicting, as national security interests increasingly outweigh economic ones, with banks and businesses being increasingly directed by government policies focused on national security.

Geopolitical tensions, trade barriers, and regulatory uncertainty continue to shape the international business landscape. Tariffs are increasing, supply chains are under pressure, and new EU regulations are redefining sustainability expectations. In this evolving environment, businesses must remain agile and proactive.

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A rules-based global trading system, with the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) most-favoured nation (MFN) principle at its core, provides the stability and predictability that businesses require for strategic planning, investment decisions, and day-to-day operations.

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The ICC Model Contract on Commissioning and After-sales Services provides a balanced and flexible legal framework for international agreements related to the installation, testing, maintenance, and repair of goods or equipment. It helps parties define clear responsibilities, timelines, and liability terms, reducing the risk of disputes in cross-border service arrangements.

The ICC is at the forefront of global tax discussions, ensuring that businesses have a strong voice in shaping fair and effective tax policies. From VAT regulations to the development of a United Nations (UN) tax framework, ICC works to create a tax environment that fosters trade, investment, and economic growth.

Culture is often cited as a driving force behind human behaviour, influencing everything from social norms to business ethics. However, as anthropologist Lee Cronk points out, “Although behavioural scientists often use culture as an explanation of behaviour, we have little understanding of why culture sometimes powerfully shapes behaviour and at other times seems to have no effect on it.” This raises an important question in the realm of integrity: how does culture influence ethical behaviour, and why do individuals sometimes act against cultural norms?

New ICC analysis examines the economic implications of proposals to establish a trade system limited to democratic nations, finding such plans would trigger a tariff shock three times larger than the Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act of 1930 that significantly impacted global trade by raising US import duties on a wide range of goods.

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The ICC Arbitration and ADR Commission plays a pivotal role in shaping global dispute resolution standards, ensuring businesses have access to efficient, fair, and enforceable solutions. As international trade grows increasingly complex, ICC’s dispute resolution services—including arbitration, mediation, expert determination, and dispute boards—help companies navigate conflicts without resorting to lengthy court proceedings.

Since its first publication in 1937, the ICC Advertising and Marketing Communications Code has served as the gold standard for responsible advertising. Recognized and implemented by self-regulatory bodies in over 40 countries, it provides a global framework for ethical marketing practices. The Code helps businesses maintain trust with consumers, ensure compliance with regulations, and adapt to evolving challenges in the advertising landscape.

Here Dr. Alexandra de Hoop Scheffer answers some of our questions about the current state of global geopolitics, the impact of US-China competition, and the rise of the ‘global south’. She concludes with her top five tips for companies navigating the geopolitical landscape.

ICC has issued guidance to support businesses faced with challenging situations that cause stay-or-leave dilemmas, requiring crisis management and due diligence to identify, prevent and mitigate the impacts of company decisions on human rights, society and the conflict. 

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