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Latest News Filter by Category Select Category Stay up to date with the latest developments from the International Chamber of Commerce. From policy updates and international trade insights to new model contracts, global business initiatives, and event highlights — this section brings you timely and trusted information from the world’s largest business organization. Explore how ICC is shaping global commerce, supporting sustainable growth, and championing ethical business practices worldwide.

< Back < Previous | Next > Digitalisation Get your business ready for digital trade: meet the ICC Digital Trade Navigator 6 May 2026 With the Netherlands’ new electronic bill of lading law in force, this exclusive ICC member benefit could not be more timely. Join one of the onboarding sessions on 28 May. Get your business ready for digital trade: meet the ICC Digital Trade Navigator With the Netherlands’ new electronic bill of lading law in force, this exclusive ICC member benefit could not be more timely. Join one of the onboarding sessions on 28 May. Digital trade is reshaping how goods, documents and data move across borders. Electronic bills of lading, digital trust frameworks, interoperable standards, evolving legal regimes — the building blocks are coming together quickly. For most businesses, the question is no longer whether digital trade matters, but how to get ready for it without taking a wrong turn. That is exactly what the ICC Digital Trade Navigator is built for. Developed by the ICC Digital Standards Initiative (DSI) together with our national committees, the Industry Advisory Board and the Legal Reform Advisory Board, the Navigator brings the entire landscape of digital trade into one structured, easy-to-use space. Think of it as a Wikipedia for digital trade, ICC style, and it is reserved exclusively for ICC members. Following our recent national committee briefings, we are inviting you to one of two onboarding sessions on 28 May, where we will walk through the platform live and show you how to put it to work in practice. A Dutch milestone for digital trade On 22 April 2026, the Netherlands took a defining step into the digital trade era. The Act amending Book 8 of the Burgerlijk Wetboek to introduce the electronic bill of lading (elektronisch cognossement) was published in Staatsblad 2026, no. 86, placing the eBL on equal legal footing with its paper counterpart under Dutch law. It is a foundational change that opens the door to fully digital sea-freight transactions involving Dutch parties. For Dutch exporters, importers, banks, freight forwarders and in-house legal teams, the question shifts from “is this allowed?” to “how do we actually do it?”. That is precisely where the Navigator comes in. The legal foundation is necessary, but it is not sufficient on its own: companies still need to understand the standards that make eBLs interoperable across counterparties, the trust frameworks that prove a document is authentic, the data behind the documents, and how all of this connects to trade finance. The Navigator brings those pieces together so Dutch businesses can move from legal possibility to operational reality with confidence. Read the law: Staatsblad 2026, 86. A single home for digital trade knowledge The Navigator (previously referred to as the “Sandbox”) has evolved into something far more useful for the membership. It pulls together the best of DSI’s guidance, ICC standards and the practical tools developed with our partners, organising them into a clear A-to-Z pathway. Whether you are stepping into digital trade for the first time or have been following developments for years, the Navigator helps them see how the concepts, legal frameworks, standards, documents, data, trust and interoperability, and trade finance fit together. At its core, it is a learning and preparation platform. It is designed to help organisations assess their readiness, master the building blocks and ask questions in a safe environment before attempting implementation. Three pillars that work together The learner journey is a self-paced curriculum covering the foundations of digital trade, legal and compliance frameworks, standards, documents and data, trust and interoperability, and trade finance. Each topic includes curated reading, a glossary of unfamiliar terms and an embedded AI assistant that can point a learner to the right module when they have a specific question. Users decide what to skip, what to revisit and how quickly to move; HR teams can track progress and use the platform as a structured capability-building tool for their people. The resource library is the single source of truth — every relevant document, standard, white paper and tool, both from DSI and from trusted partners, made fully searchable by topic and keyword. Practical instruments such as data-mapping tools, interoperability enablement utilities and implementation support all live here. The mentor forum is where members engage directly with the experts who shaped this work. Questions are posted to topic-based threads, and assigned mentors are notified when new questions appear. Because the forum is open and threaded, members benefit from each other’s questions as well as their own as the body of guidance grows over time. Mentors are there to help your people make sense of the harder questions as they arise. Why should you care? The Navigator concentrates years of work, knowledge that you might otherwise pay seasoned consultants to assemble, into a single, structured platform. It is free to ICC members, accessible by company domain name, and designed to scale across teams: trade, legal, compliance, finance, procurement, supply chain, IT and HR. It is crucial to know that this serves as preparation, not theory. Later this year we will activate the matching functionality so member companies can find counterparties, importers with exporters, manufacturers with freight forwarders, banks with corporates, to run real digital trade pilots together. Companies whose teams have completed the learner journey will be ready to engage mentors with the right questions, choose the right pilot platforms and avoid costly missteps. In short, the Navigator gives you a way to build internal capability now, so that when they step into a live pilot, they take that step with confidence. Who is it for? The Navigator is designed for any organisation involved in cross-border trade: large multinationals running global supply chains, mid-sized exporters, SMEs participating in those supply chains, and the financial institutions that support them. Within those organisations, it speaks to a wide audience: operational teams who need to understand standards and documents, finance teams thinking about reconciliation and trade finance, legal teams tracking reform, and senior leaders who want to understand what is coming. Although it is not a certification, member companies who want one should check out the ICC Academy's Certified Digital Trade Specialist course. However, for many learners, completing the Navigator will make passing that test much easier. Join us on 28 May The Navigator goes live this month, and we are running two live onboarding sessions on 28 May to walk you through the platform, explain how registration and member verification work, and answer any questions you have about deploying it inside your member organisations. 28 May, 09:00 CET — register here 28 May, 16:00 CET — register here Both sessions cover the same material, so pick whichever time suits you best. Sessions will be recorded for anyone unable to attend live. We look forward to seeing you there.

< Back < Previous | Next > Turning Ambition into Action: ICC and Sage Release 2025 SME Climate Finance Stocktake 27 Oct 2025 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. Turning Ambition into Action: ICC and Sage Release 2025 SME Climate Finance Stocktake As the world prepares for COP30 in Belém , a new global report by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and Sage delivers a clear message: small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are more ambitious than ever on sustainability, but access to finance is still lagging far behind. The 2025 SME Climate Finance Stocktake , the fifth in this global series, tracks progress from 2021 to 2025 and exposes a widening gap between SME ambition and the availability of green finance . While 70% of SMEs now say sustainability is central to their business, fewer than 3% have accessed a green finance product. Digital and AI: The missing link The study identifies a key factor separating leaders from laggards: digital capability . SMEs that use digital accounting, e-invoicing, or AI-powered carbon tracking are four times more likely to access green finance than their peers. Yet for most small firms, fragmented and complex reporting requirements continue to block progress, leaving billions in potential investment untapped. As ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO and Sage CEO Steve Hare note in their foreword, technology is not just a productivity tool but a gateway to green finance . Automating reporting, standardising data, and integrating trusted digital systems are essential to scaling sustainability for SMEs. Policy alignment and practical action The report calls for governments, financial institutions, and technology firms to work together to make sustainability reporting simpler, faster, and more affordable. It outlines five urgent actions to bridge the gap between ambition and finance, including: Developing consistent, streamlined SME reporting standards aligned with the new VSME framework and ISSB baseline ; Expanding sustainability-linked loans, transition finance, and blended finance mechanisms; Incentivising SME reporting and investment through fiscal support and digital tools; Leveraging AI and structured data to make sustainability reporting “report once, use many times”; Standardising data requests across banks and buyers to unlock scale and trust. From ambition to economic opportunity link With SMEs representing over 90% of global businesses and around 40% of emissions , their success is essential to the world’s net-zero transition. Enabling them to access climate finance is not just good policy, it’s an investment in inclusive, resilient economic growth. ICC and Sage will take these findings to COP30 , advocating for practical, collaborative solutions to empower SMEs as the driving force of a just and effective transition. Read further Full report: SME Climate Finance Stocktake 2021–2025 – Turning Ambition into Action (ICC & Sage, 2025) 🌱 ICC COP30 Climate Action page – Learn how ICC is mobilising business for climate ambition and adaptation finance.

< Back < Previous | Next > Trade & Investment Reimagining WTO Dispute Settlement: a business case for mediation 14 May 2025 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. Most trade frictions never reach WTO dispute settlement. Many business concerns – licensing delays, technical barriers or opaque procedures – disrupt trade but are too small, sensitive or costly to escalate to formal dispute settlement. That’s where alternative dispute resolution (ADR), and more specifically mediation, comes in. WTO rules already allow for it, but the tool has not been used, among other things, due to a lack of clear procedures. That’s changing. As part of the WTO reform process, WTO Members are discussing procedural rules to make mediation a workable option – and we can help accelerate this process by supporting governments willing to pilot mediation in practice. Why it matters For business Companies face real costs from unresolved trade frictions. Mediation offers a practical and quicker way to resolve issues – and businesses can help identify where it’s needed. For governments Mediation gives WTO Members a lower-risk, lower-cost path to resolve trade issues early. It is especially important for developing countries that may lack resources for litigation. The benefits of WTO mediation Enables early, informal resolution of trade concerns Reduces time, cost, and legal burden Promotes cooperation—not confrontation Offers a flexible and confidential process No imposed ruling —outcomes are mutually agreed What we are doing ICC is advocating for the use of ADR, and in particular mediation within the WTO dispute settlement system as part of broader reform efforts. Drawing on ICC’s extensive experience as the world’s leading institution in cross-border dispute resolution, we’re supporting efforts to make mediation a practical option for resolving trade frictions more effectively. How you can get involved We are actively seeking companies with unresolved trade concerns who are willing to engage their governments in pilot mediation cases. These cases can help demonstrate how WTO mediation can deliver fast, practical outcomes and strengthen trust in the rules-based system. Contact Valerie Picard, Head of Trade, ICC, Valerie.Picard@iccwbo.org to learn more or explore a pilot case.

< Back < Previous | Next > Marketing Trust as the through-line: inside the Global Marketing and Advertising Commission’s London meeting 6 May 2026 ICC Global Marketing and Advertising Commission — 28 April 2026, London Trust as the through-line: inside the Global Marketing and Advertising Commission’s London meeting ICC Global Marketing and Advertising Commission — 28 April 2026, London When Alice Himsworth, Chair of the ICC Global Marketing and Advertising Commission, opened proceedings in London on 28 April, she pointed to a single thread running through an otherwise ambitious agenda: trust. Hosted in hybrid format at Google’s Central Saint Giles offices, the meeting drew members from across the globe to debate how the industry maintains, and rebuilds, public confidence at a moment of unusually rapid transformation. By the close of the afternoon, that thread had been pulled through every workstream, every keynote and every regulatory update on the table. Setting the str ategic stage Raelene Martin, ICC’s Head of Sustainability for Global Policy, set the scene by mapping the Commission’s work onto wider ICC priorities for 2026. She underlined how marketing and advertising expertise increasingly intersects with trade, digital governance, sustainability and consumer protection. Of particular note was the synergy emerging around scams, fraud and organised crime, building on the Digital Economy Commission’s recent paper and ICC’s contribution to the UN Global Fraud Summit. Environmental communications, she added, are now being referenced well beyond this Commission, including in preparations for COP in Antalya later in the year. The Commission also took a moment to honour Anders Stephens, who has formally stepped down as co-chair of the Code Revision Task Force. As Anders himself put it with characteristic humour, code revision is not for the faint-hearted — but the work he has shaped over four decades remains foundational. The trust dividend Stephen Woodford, Chief Executive of the UK’s Advertising Association, then delivered a keynote that gave members both data and direction. While trust in most institutions continues to slide, trust in advertising in the UK has risen from 31% to 40% over recent years. Mr Woodford framed the value of trust under three headings: results, regulation and recruitment. Drawing on the IPA’s databank of effectiveness cases, he showed that trust has climbed from seventh to second place among drivers of commercial success, and that campaigns associated with high trust outperform peers by roughly 30 percentage points on large business effects. MPs who do not trust the industry are five times more likely to want to legislate. And young talent, unsurprisingly, will not join an industry their friends consider untrustworthy. The drivers of trust, Mr Woodford explained, sit on a roughly 50/50 balance sheet. On the positive side, enjoyment accounts for around 30% and social contribution for 15%. On the negative, “bombardment” — particularly intrusion and repetition — leads, followed by “suspicious advertising”, inside which the share attributed to scams has tripled since 2018. Crypto fraud, data privacy concerns and worries about advertising in high-risk categories complete the picture. The single most strongly correlated factor behind the UK’s trust uplift is awareness of the ASA’s public-facing campaign: among those who recall the ads, trust in advertising stands at 70%, compared with around 30% for those who do not. Policy in motion The Commission then turned to its live workstreams. Oliver Gray reported that the Revision of the ICC Framework for Responsible Alcohol Marketing Communications is approaching its third draft, with definitions for alcohol-free brand extensions clarified, references to relevant global best practice incorporated, and a strengthened article on influencer marketing. WFA and IARD confirmed the latest compromise text was close to consensus, with one outstanding issue — the definition of “non-alcohol” — to be resolved in light of widely varying national rules. The Revision of the ICC Framework for Responsible Food and Beverage Marketing Communications is now beginning, drawing structurally on the alcohol framework and aligning fully with the revised ICC Code. Children, teens and HFSS communications will sit at the heart of the work, and members were invited to step forward as drafters. Alice Himsworth, leading the new policy product on scams in advertising, reported strong member engagement and important feedback from the Global Advertising Scams Alliance, ICC Belgium and others. Scoping remains the central question: financial fraud is the most acute manifestation, but phishing, identity harvesting and the wider scam journey all bear on consumer trust. The paper’s structure will privilege flexibility over a rigid responsibility map, with annexes potentially used to illustrate the multi-actor pathway. Publication has been pushed beyond June to allow further consultation. Adam Ingle of LEGO presented an early concept note attached to the Revision of the ICC Toolkit on Marketing and Advertising to Children, alongside a new policy paper on responsible marketing to children and teens. Forty-two countries are now considering social-media restrictions for under-16s. His proposal would seek consensus across platforms on common design features — pushing back against infinite scroll, push notifications and other engagement mechanisms — when marketing material is likely to reach children. The intention is not to oppose regulation but to preserve constructive digital spaces for younger users. Alex Krasodomski closed the policy round by inviting members to amplify the recently published Responsible AI in Marketing: how to apply the ICC Code. A podcast episode is in production, and the team is exploring speaking opportunities at events such as the AI for Good Summit in Geneva. Self-regulation under pressure, and ready to lead A fireside chat between Guy Parker, Chief Executive of the ASA, and Emma Bennett, Chief of Staff of ICC UK, gave members a candid view from the regulator’s chair. Pressure points are well known: scams, misleading advertising, AI, gambling and influencer disclosure. Compliance with influencer labelling has risen to around 60% in the UK — better, but, as Mr Parker put it, a “could-do-better school report”. The ad ethics programme, with around 10,000 influencers trained across Europe, is part of the answer; so too is the forthcoming Intermediary and Platform Principles initiative, formalising platforms’ role in upstream prevention. With Amazon already at $80 billion in advertising revenues and OpenAI publicly targeting $100 billion by 2030, the case for keeping new entrants inside the self-regulatory tent is only strengthening. Looking outward Looking ahead, the Commission previewed several headline initiatives: ICC’s first formal presence at Cannes Lions 2026 through a dedicated Self-Regulation Day, in partnership with ICAS, EASA, ARPP and GALA; the imminent launch of the first-ever Portuguese version of the ICC Code, led by ICC Brazil; an early-stage exploration of a voluntary Responsible Advertising and Marketing Label, on which members rightly flagged liability and antitrust caveats; and progress on the ISO Technical Committee on Digital Marketing. Jeff Greenbaum closed with a tour of regulatory hot spots — ambush marketing around the World Cup, all-in and algorithmic pricing, and contested environmental claims. Next year marks the ICC Code’s 90th anniversary. Members are invited to help shape the celebrations — and, more importantly, to keep the Commission’s work the trusted reference it has long been.

< Back < Previous | Next > Paperless Trade Pilot Handbook – Road to a broader Digital Trade Eriáne Marsera 3 Nov 2025 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. Paperless Trade Pilot Handbook – Road to a broader Digital Trade “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.” In October 2025, the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Digital Standards Initiative (DSI) released the P aperless Trade Pilot Handbook , a practical guide designed to help governments and businesses implement paperless trade systems. The handbook arrives at a critical time for global trade, marked by geopolitical uncertainty, disrupted supply chains, and growing pressure to improve efficiency and resilience in cross-border commerce. The handbook outlines six essential steps for designing and executing effective pilot projects: Define vision and objectives – Set a clear, measurable purpose aligned with stakeholder priorities. Recruit key stakeholders – Build a balanced team of core experts and support roles. Map the current trade process – Identify inefficiencies and assess digital readiness. Develop the pilot framework – Define scope, milestones, and roles. Assemble metrics for success – Use KPIs and OKRs to measure impact and align contributions. Pilot and iterate – Launch, monitor, refine, and scale based on feedback. The playbook emphasizes starting small , focusing on one corridor, process, or document and scaling based on results. It is designed for a broad community of digital trade advocates, including public agencies, banks, logistics providers, and technology platforms. Connecting to Global Digital Trade Developments The handbook is deeply connected to international efforts to modernize trade, particularly through the UNCITRAL Model Law on Electronic Transferable Records (MLETR) . MLETR provides a legal framework that gives electronic trade documents such as bills of lading and warehouse receipts, the same legal status as paper ones. This removes legal barriers to paperless trade and enables faster, more secure, and more efficient transactions. Another key enabler is interoperability , the ability of legal, technical, and organizational systems to work together across borders. Interoperability ensures that electronic documents and data can be exchanged and recognized internationally, legal frameworks are aligned, and systems like customs and finance platforms can integrate seamlessly. Without it, digital trade remains fragmented and inefficient. Together, MLETR and interoperability form the foundation for a globally harmonized digital trade environment. The ICC DSI’s mission is to turn these principles into practical implementation, and the handbook is a key tool in that effort. Why This Matters for Dutch Businesses and Policymakers The Netherlands, a major global trading hub, stands to gain significantly from adopting paperless trade. However, as of October 2025, the country has not yet fully incorporated digital trade into its Civil Code ( Burgerlijk Wetboek ) . A draft bill, Bill No. 36 743 , has been introduced to recognize electronic bills of lading (eBLs) , aligning with MLETR. While this is a positive step, broader adoption is needed to cover other key trade documents. The ICC Netherlands, along with a coalition of banks, businesses, and trade associations, has called on Parliament to accelerate MLETR adoption . The September 2025 white paper outlines the practical benefits and urges swift legislative action. You can access the white paper here: ICC Netherlands | September White Paper Key benefits for the Netherlands include: Efficiency and Speed : A pilot between Rotterdam and Singapore showed that using eBLs can reduce document processing time from 6–10 days to under 24 hours. Cost Reduction and Trade Growth : SMEs could see up to a 35% drop in administrative costs and a 13% boost in trade, based on UK findings. Competitiveness : With countries like the UK and France already implementing MLETR, the Netherlands risks falling behind if it delays. Trade Finance Acceleration : Digital documents speed up financing processes, saving days in transaction time. Sustainability and Logistics Optimization : Digitalization reduces delays, lowers CO₂ emissions, and improves supply chain efficiency. Legal Certainty : Recognizing electronic documents gives businesses clarity and flexibility, allowing them to choose between paper and digital formats. Call to Action for Dutch Policymakers To fully realize the benefits of paperless trade, Dutch policymakers must act decisively. The introduction of Bill No. 36 743 is a promising start, but broader legislative reform is urgently needed to align the Civil Code with international standards like MLETR. Parliament should prioritize the recognition of all key electronic trade documents and ensure legal interoperability with global partners. By accelerating digital trade legislation, the Netherlands can: · Cement its role as a leader in global commerce. · Empower SMEs with faster, cheaper, and more secure trade processes. · Enhance sustainability and supply chain resilience. · Ensure Dutch businesses remain competitive in a rapidly digitizing world. Now is the time to move from pilot to policy.

< Back < Previous | Next > ICC Netherlands at the WTO Public Forum 2025 in Geneva Jasper van Schaik 6 Oct 2025 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. By Jasper van Schaik, Board Member, ICC Netherlands From 16 to 18 September, I had the privilege of representing ICC Netherlands at the World Trade Organization Public Forum in Geneva. This is the world’s largest trade gathering, bringing together over 4,500 participants at a moment when global trade is undergoing profound change. The multilateral trading system established by the WTO has delivered enormous benefits in terms of predictability and trust. Yet it is now under serious threat and urgently needs to adapt. This has been evident for some time, but in 2025 the urgency is clearer than ever. While 72% of global trade is still conducted under WTO terms, this figure has dropped from 80% just a year ago — a sharp signal of erosion. From shifting geopolitical dynamics to rapid digital transformation, it is obvious that a modernized and digitized trading system is no longer optional, but essential. We need a coherent framework for digital trade rules that reflect today’s realities, and anticipate tomorrow’s. At ICC, we believe the multilateral trading system remains an essential engine of shared prosperity. Legitimate concerns about the WTO’s adaptability must be addressed, but tactical unilateral trade deals are no substitute. Fragmentation and “quick fixes” risk raising costs and uncertainty, especially for SMEs, threatening their participation in global value chains. That is why WTO members must credibly commit to reform, and to modern rules on issues such as digital trade, AI, and sustainability. ICC is there to ensure the business voice, the voice of those who make trade happen, is heard. ICC Chair Philippe Varin underlined this point in the Forum’s main panel discussion, delivering a compelling message: trust, the very foundation of global trade, is eroding. Without urgent reform, risks will rise further, and SMEs will pay the highest price. WTO has to become more agile, and his call to action was clear: Revitalize the multilateral system and modernize WTO governance, including reform of consensus rules that allow a single member to block progress. Develop a new playbook fit for today’s world. Fix the dispute settlement mechanism, which has been not fully functional for too long. Here, our ICC Arbitration system may offer inspiration. Ensure business plays a key role, and is at the table from the start, not on the sidelines. Varin also emphasized that the future of trade will increasingly depend on tools. AI, for example, could boost global trade by up to 40% by 2040 beyond current forecasts, mainly by reducing trade costs, enhancing productivity, and opening new export pathways. AI also has enormous potential in trade operations, including predictive risk management, supply-and-demand assessments, tariff and duty calculations, and customs documentation. Another crucial tool is the digitization of documents for cross-border trade, which needs urgent acceleration. ICC Netherlands is working on this front together with the Global Alliance for Trade Facilitation, already delivering impact through the digitalization of phytosanitary certificates — a critical step toward faster, more secure border processes. Our next step will be to digitize more trade documents in more countries, creating tangible benefits for business. Looking ahead, the next WTO Ministerial Conference , the WTO’s highest decision-making body, will be pivotal. The WTO Ministerial Conference, scheduled for 26-29 March 2026 in Cameroon, can take binding decisions on all matters under the multilateral trade agreements. Every member country, including the Netherlands, will be represented at ministerial level, usually the Minister of Foreign Trade. It is vital that the voice of business is heard. ICC Netherlands, together with VNO-NCW, will work in the coming months to gather inputs from Dutch business and ensure they are reflected in the discussions leading to this crucial Ministerial Conference. Please don’t hesitate to directly reach out to me or to Laure Jacquier, Director General of ICC Netherlands, already.

< Back < Previous | Next > Dispute Resolution Dispute Resolution Best Practices: Insights from Recent ICC Trainings in the Netherlands Ulrich Kopetzki 3 Apr 2025 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. Emphasizing early assessment, tailored approaches, and proactive use of ICC support services, the sessions highlighted ICC arbitration’s flexibility, global reach, and practical tools to streamline and enhance cross-border dispute resolution. Ulrich Kopetzki ICC Dispute Resolution Services recently delivered a specialized training program across major Dutch companies and law firms. Ulrich Kopetzki, Acting Director for Europe and Central Asia, shared insights into advanced dispute resolution strategies over two intensive days of sessions. The program brought together over 40 experienced legal and business professionals interested in expanding their dispute resolution toolkit. Through collaborative workshops and discussions, we explored nuanced approaches to complex commercial disagreements and exchanged perspectives on optimizing dispute management processes. This initiative supports our ongoing dialogue with the Dutch business community and highlights the evolving landscape of international dispute resolution. Frequently Asked Questions How can we draft more effective dispute resolution clauses? Arbitration offers flexibility to tailor proceedings to your specific needs. Starting with the ICC model clause, consider key strategic choices like seat of arbitration, expedited procedures, confidentiality requirements, and multi-tiered dispute resolution steps. Sometimes leaving certain issues undetermined maintains valuable flexibility. These customizations create a dispute resolution process aligned with your business relationship and industry needs, potentially saving significant time and costs if a dispute arises. What are the advantages of ICC arbitration specifically? ICC arbitration stands out for its global reach (operating in 140+ countries and multiple languages), institutional neutrality, and exceptional quality control through the Court’s award scrutiny process. Its century of experience, client-centric case management, and innovative rules create a level playing field for parties worldwide. This combination makes ICC particularly valuable for complex cross-border disputes requiring efficient, predictable, and enforceable outcomes. How can parties make best use of the ICC Court and Secretariat in an arbitration? The ICC Court and Secretariat offer comprehensive support beyond what’s explicitly stated in the Rules. Some valuable ways to leverage the Court and Secretariat include: 1. Seeking arbitrator selection assistance - When parties need help identifying potential arbitrators, the Secretariat or ICC Court can provide lists of candidates, initiate communication with potential arbitrators about their availability, or establish a list procedure where parties rank their preferences. 2. Requesting specific arbitrator criteria - Parties can jointly agree on criteria they want the ICC Court to consider when appointing an arbitrator, such as nationality, language proficiency, or particular industry expertise. 3. Understanding ICC Court decisions - Any party can request that the Court communicate its reasoning for decisions on jurisdiction, consolidation, arbitrator challenges, or replacements, enhancing transparency in the process. 4. Using the Secretariat as an intermediary - The Secretariat can facilitate communication between parties and the tribunal, especially for sensitive issues like concerns about fees, delays, or case management challenges. 5. Utilizing escrow services - Beyond holding the advance on costs, the Secretariat can provide escrow services for VAT payments, expert fees, or security for costs. 6. Document handling and confidentiality - The Secretariat can serve as a neutral depository for confidential documents, including sealed settlement offers, and ensure they’re only released at appropriate times. 7. Getting logistical support - Leverage the ICC Case Connect platform for document sharing, get help with hearing arrangements through the ICC Hearing Centre, or obtain assistance with visa applications for participants. 8. Requesting advance notice of awards - Parties can arrange to receive alerts when an award notification is imminent, or request specific timing for award delivery. 9. Post-award assistance - The Secretariat continues to provide support after the award is issued, including certified copies of documents, notarization, and letters reminding parties of compliance obligations.

< Back < Previous | Next > Multilateralism Africa – issues and opportunities relating to trade 1 Jun 2025 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.” With this in mind, we contacted Karima-Catherine Goundian to learn more about Africa’s current and future role in the global trade environment. Karima-Catherine Goundian Can we start off with a definition of Africa's current standing in global trade – looking at both established and emerging sectors? Africa’s position in global trade is still largely defined by raw material exports. For example, oil from Nigeria, cobalt from Democratic Republic of the Congo, and cocoa from Ghana and Cote d'Ivoire. With South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Egypt and Morocco leading in terms of trade volume and influence, there's a growing momentum towards diversification and value addition. Ethiopia is building a textile manufacturing base; Kenya is known for fintech and innovation; Morocco is advancing in automotive and green energy; Rwanda and Ghana are making significant leaps in positioning themselves as innovation and logistics hubs. The narrative about Africa is shifting slowly to being recognised more as a growing frontier. Considering the diversity of this huge continent, is it just too simple to talk about ‘Africa’ as one entity? Africa is 54 countries with multiple economy blocks, diverse political systems, and different languages that are obviously based on the colonial past. It is really critical to avoid oversimplification. In addition, Africa has historically been grouped with the Gulf region to form the MENA region, as if it’s all the same. However, if you are comparing, for example, the business environment of Mauritius to DRC, it’s like comparing Sweden and Brazil. They have nothing to do with each other. I think we really must engage in shifting against that narrative about what Africa is at the regional and national level. With that in mind, how should foreign companies look at working with African businesses? I think it’s important not to look at Africa as a continent, but as an opportunity region; the same way you would if you were to go to Europe. For example, you’re not going to tackle all of the European countries at once; it depends on what you are looking for. Are you looking to manufacture? Are you looking to commercialise? Are you looking for partners and collaborators? Are you doing research and development? What are the most significant challenges facing African trade? Debt relief, climate vulnerability and political instability are all very significant. And I haven’t even started talking about the health hazards. Those challenges all are deep-rooted. What are the solutions to progress? I think that strength will come from collaboration. This is where it gets tricky: this collaboration must be with groups that have Africa’s best interests in mind. Otherwise, it’s going to be a repeat of colonialism, just with different people involved, which is what we are seeing in some places. This is why I believe the next frontier for Africa has to come from within Africa; with new leaders who think differently and understand the challenges; people who are not foresighted, trying to gain for themselves or their immediate family and friends. Do you have any examples of this new style of leadership? A good example happened just a few weeks ago: Guinea’s military-led government revoked the licences of 51 mining companies, citing non-compliance with development obligations and underutilisation of concessions. This spans the bauxite, gold, diamond, graphite and iron mining industries. This sends an important message, it’s a signal that Guinea is really serious about enforcing codes. This kind of stance is very good and very new to Africa, where there is a courage to ask people to abide by rules and hold them to it. How does the energy transition and sustainability align with the development of African trade? Looking at the challenges of the energy transition and sustainability, we’re trying to balance industrial growth with climate goals, which, traditionally, are conflicting. Many African nations have renewable resources – solar, wind and hydroelectric power – but lack the infrastructure to scale them. The other big challenge is financing. If you’re talking about green transition funds, they’re often inefficient or just inaccessible. When I look at the future in this specific area, capacity building and technology transfers are crucial. There are definitely opportunities, for which I think the regional integration of the AfCFTA [African Continental Free Trade Area] is really important. I hope that we can get to a common currency in Africa; this would help a lot in trade within and outside Africa. Let’s turn our attention to ICC's involvement. Does the ICC help? ICC’s role is huge: I see it as a bridge between global vision and local implementation. It can serve as a safeguard and guardrail to provide clarity in trade rules, support arbitration and dispute resolution. And with the right partnerships, ICC can really drive policy advocacy at local government level and shape those trade ecosystems; promoting digital standards for cross-border commerce, for example. ICC can really bring value in helping with ESG reporting, promoting ethical business practices. Procurement reform and capacity building are important as well, specifically when we talk about doing business in Africa, and giving SMEs access to global markets. And how does your work align with the development of companies based in Africa? In my work, I operate a global platform that connects vetted small and medium-sized businesses across markets. This gives me direct insight into the structural barriers they face—from regulatory friction to trust gaps—and into the types of support that actually drive successful partnerships. That perspective shapes how I see the ICC’s role—not just as a policy advocate, but as a practical enabler of high-impact, cross-border collaboration. With a focus on avoiding neo-colonisation, what are emerging African sectors looking for in a trading partner? That’s the million-dollar question. It really is a funnel question – it depends if you’re talking about government, SMEs, or larger groups there. I think what is important is achieving competitiveness. Policies are really important but this will require investment in infrastructure, education and digital connectivity. Those are the three key pieces.

< Back < Previous | Next > The bigger picture of arbitration Tom Scott 3 Mar 2026 A conversation with Marc Krestin, Partner at Fieldfisher The bigger picture of arbitration A conversation with Marc Krestin, Partner at Fieldfisher Marc Krestin is a dispute resolution lawyer at Fieldfisher with over 18 years of experience in international litigation and arbitration. Having worked in the Netherlands and France, his career path has focused on complex cross-border disputes, with a particular emphasis on arbitration. With an international upbringing spanning Germany, Switzerland, the Netherlands and France, Marc views arbitration as a natural extension of his background. “It is global by nature,” he explains, “and requires cultural awareness, as well as an understanding of international law, economics and geopolitics.” From your perspective, what role does arbitration play today in supporting trust and continuity in international business? Arbitration supports trust and continuity. And therefore it converts some of the uncertainty that businesses may encounter across their lifecycle into enforceable decisions. Arbitration gives companies security and finality about disputes, enabling them to move on with their core business. In cross-border commerce, businesses value predictability, neutrality and enforceability. Arbitration ticks those boxes. Predictability does not mean you can foresee the outcome, but you receive a final award that is, in principle, not subject to appeal. That gives parties closure. There is also perceived predictability in the fact that parties can generally influence the choice of the arbitrator(s). Neutrality is another cornerstone. Arbitration allows disputes to be resolved in a neutral forum, often with decision-makers who have no affiliation with either party’s home jurisdiction. And enforceability is perhaps arbitration’s greatest strength. Under the New York Convention, arbitral awards can be enforced in more than 170 countries. That global enforceability is far more extensive than what is typically available for court judgments outside regional frameworks such as the EU. Where do you see the biggest disconnect between business expectations and legal reality when it comes to arbitration? The largest gap lies between speed and cost expectations on the one hand, and due process requirements on the other. Businesses understandably want disputes resolved quickly and at the lowest possible cost. Arbitration, however, is built on principles of fairness and due process. That can sometimes make the process more complex, time-consuming and costly than parties initially expect. The flip side is that this thorough process leads to a well-reasoned decision that parties can live with and move on from, rather than a quick fix that leaves one side dissatisfied. There is also sometimes a misconception about ‘finality.’ While arbitral awards are final in principle, they can still be challenged on limited grounds. What do you see as the added value of ICC arbitration specifically? The ICC is widely regarded as the gold standard of institutional arbitration. It is one of the most recognised and frequently used arbitral institutions worldwide. A key differentiator is the scrutiny of awards by the ICC Court. Every award is reviewed before it is issued. That quality control mechanism is relatively unique and adds significant robustness to the process. The ICC also benefits from highly experienced administration and case management teams. Given the volume of cases handled, the institutional knowledge and expertise are substantial. Its global reach is another advantage. The ICC has access to arbitrators across jurisdictions and sectors, ensuring both diversity and the necessary local or technical expertise. In addition, the ICC Rules are regularly updated and include tools such as expedited proceedings and emergency arbitration, reflecting technological and sectoral developments. If you could give one piece of advice to Dutch companies entering international contracts in 2026, what would it be? Do not treat the dispute resolution clause as boilerplate. Draft it carefully, taking into account the specific business relationship and the geopolitical context. Think about enforcement risks, choice of seat, applicable law, procedural rules and unforeseen circumstances. Too often, dispute resolution clauses are copy-pasted at the last minute. Once a dispute arises, it is usually too late to find common ground on how to resolve it. It is far better to make thoughtful arrangements while the relationship is still healthy. Choosing a reputable institution, selecting a pro-arbitration seat and seeking proper legal advice can make a decisive difference. How can arbitrators, external counsel and in-house counsel work together more effectively? Although arbitration is adversarial, all stakeholders share a common objective: a fair, efficient and effective resolution of the dispute. We should perhaps approach arbitration more often with a project management mindset. That means adhering to timelines, focusing on issues that truly matter, avoiding unnecessary length in submissions and working collaboratively to shape an efficient process. Cultural differences can add complexity, but they also make arbitration an interesting and enjoyable field to work in. It is essential that arbitrators and counsel bridge those gaps and create a process that both parties can understand and accept. What trends and developments will shape arbitration practice in the next 5-10 years? Several developments are already here at our doorstep. First, disputes in sectors such as technology, life sciences, energy and financial services – particularly fintech and digital assets – will continue to grow. The rise of digital currencies, artificial intelligence and data-driven business models will generate new types of disputes. Second, arbitration will become increasingly digital and interdisciplinary. Cases will require technical expertise in engineering, data science or emerging technologies, alongside legal expertise. Third, ESG and climate-related disputes are likely to increase. While many such cases are currently brought before state courts, more contracts now include arbitration clauses, which means arbitration will increasingly deal with green finance, greenwashing and climate-related claims. Geopolitical fragmentation is another major driver. Sanctions, trade controls, tariffs and disputes involving state-owned entities will continue to shape the arbitration landscape. Finally, we will see more multi-tier dispute resolution clauses combining arbitration with mediation, expert determination or negotiation. Arbitration will increasingly be part of a broader dispute resolution toolkit. What advice would you give your younger self starting out in arbitration? Be deliberate and strategic about your career choices. Arbitration is highly competitive and internationally attractive. Seek out opportunities to gain hands-on experience. Learn from experienced practitioners. Master the facts; arbitration is fundamentally about understanding the record inside out. Networking is also crucial. Arbitration is a people’s business. Knowing the players – including arbitrators, counsel and institutional representatives – is important both for professional development and for staying up-to-date. Above all, never take the learning process for granted and immerse yourself fully in the craft. Marc Krestin Attorney-at-law specialising in international dispute resolution Partner at Fieldfisher Trace, Freeze and Collect – When the Forum Isn’t Your Friend: Enforcement across Eastern Europe and Asia - Paris Arbitration Week Beat the Clock: Essential Skills for Rising Arbitrators in Expedited Proceedings - Paris Arbitration Week

< Back < Previous | Next > COP 31 - Implementation is the real test 25 Feb 2026 As preparations for COP31 move forward, climate policy is shifting from targets to delivery, with new finance rules, carbon markets and trade measures increasingly shaping investment conditions, risk management and competitiveness for internationally active Dutch businesses. Implementation Is the Real Test: Can Climate Policy Deliver for the Real Economy? COP30 concluded in Belém under unusually complex geopolitical conditions. After extended negotiations, Parties adopted the “Belém Political Package” alongside technical decisions that reaffirmed commitment to the Paris Agreement and climate multilateralism. While the outcome did not resolve all open questions, particularly around finance clarity and national ambition signals, it marked a shift in emphasis. The climate agenda is now firmly situated within broader economic policy: industrial competitiveness, financial stability, energy security, and trade architecture. The focus has moved from negotiating targets to implementing systems. For internationally active businesses, this transition has direct implications. What changed and why it matters for companies Three developments emerging from COP30 are particularly relevant. Climate policy is entering the risk-management phase Climate commitments are reflected in domestic regulation, financial supervision, and litigation trends. The discussion has evolved from long-term environmental ambition to near-term risk exposure. For businesses, this affects: Capital allocation decisions Insurance costs and availability Supply chain resilience planning Disclosure and compliance obligations Long-term asset valuation Boards are no longer asking whether climate risk matters. The question is how rapidly it will materialise in financial and legal terms. Implementation mechanisms are being built Initiatives such as the Global Implementation Accelerator and Brazil’s roadmaps on fossil fuel transition and deforestation aim to move beyond political signalling toward deployment and coordination. For companies, this signals: Greater scrutiny of transition plans Increased demand for technology deployment partnerships More structured government–business collaboration Potential acceleration of permitting and regulatory reforms The implementation phase will test whether climate ambition translates into predictable investment conditions. Market instruments are becoming structural Carbon pricing, Article 6 markets, voluntary carbon market integrity, and border carbon adjustments are no longer peripheral topics. They are becoming structural components of trade and investment systems. For Dutch companies, operating through global value chains, ports, finance and logistics, this means: Internal carbon pricing strategies require alignment with evolving international mechanisms Cross-border carbon accounting will affect competitiveness Supply chain contracts increasingly incorporate emissions performance Trade compliance teams must track carbon-related border measures Market design and integrity now directly influence commercial strategy. Finance: the central enabler One of the most closely watched elements of COP30 was climate finance. While agreement was reached on forward-looking processes, implementation will determine whether capital flows at the required scale. For financial institutions and corporates active in emerging markets, several issues remain central: Cost of capital differentials Risk-sharing mechanisms Prudential regulatory treatment of green investments Clarity around blended finance frameworks Unlocking private finance is less about new pledges and more about removing structural barriers. This is where business expertise is essential. ICC’s global agenda: aligning policy with practice ICC’s 2026 Environment & Energy Commission workplan reflects this implementation focus. Priorities include: Channeling business expertise into UNFCCC negotiations ahead of COP31 Supporting high-integrity cross-border carbon markets Advocating practical reforms to unlock private climate finance Strengthening sustainable trade finance frameworks Engaging in biodiversity, plastics and minerals governance processes The upcoming Global Commission meeting will concentrate specifically on advancing implementation toward Antalya. The emphasis is clear: business input must move from general endorsement to technical contribution. Looking ahead to Antalya COP31 in Antalya will be assessed less on new declarations and more on implementation progress. Key indicators for business will include: Whether carbon market mechanisms deliver operational clarity Whether climate finance discussions reduce investment friction Whether trade–climate dialogues avoid fragmentation Whether permitting and policy signals become sufficiently predictable for long-term capital deployment The geopolitical environment remains complex. Economic conditions remain uncertain. But climate policy is increasingly embedded in economic architecture rather than treated as a parallel track. For internationally active companies, this requires integration, not separate sustainability strategies, but mainstream business planning. ICC Netherlands will continue to provide a platform where Dutch business can both anticipate regulatory evolution and contribute constructively to global processes. Implementation is no longer a distant objective. It is the phase we have entered. And in this phase, technical input, commercial realism and policy coherence matter more than rhetoric.

< Back < Previous | Next > Climate Change Post-UNOC3: Business Rallies for Ocean Action with Landmark Call to Policymakers 30 Jun 2025 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. Over 80 businesses and networks unite behind ICC-led declaration to protect ocean health and strengthen global resilience. As the Third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) concluded earlier this month in Nice, the global business community made its voice heard with a clear message: safeguarding the ocean is essential to economic prosperity and climate resilience. In a joint Business Call to Action, more than 80 organisations from 25 countries—including 55 businesses representing over €600 billion in turnover and more than 2 million employees—urged both public and private actors to accelerate action to conserve and sustainably use the ocean. The initiative was co-convened by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), alongside key partners including the UN Global Compact, the World Economic Forum, Business for Nature, and the We Mean Business Coalition. 📄 Read the full Call to Action The Ocean Economy: Vital and Vulnerable The ocean supports over 3 billion people with food and livelihoods, facilitates 80% of global trade, and carries 95% of international data traffic. It also plays a critical role in regulating the climate and sustaining biodiversity. Yet its health is increasingly under threat. UNOC3 produced a high-level declaration and strong commitments on marine protection, sustainable fisheries, and marine pollution. But as ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO noted, "We now need to match ambition with action." The Business Call to Action provides a framework for doing just that. Business Commitments The Call to Action highlights how businesses—regardless of whether they operate on land or at sea—can support ocean health and contribute to a thriving blue economy. Recommended actions include: Integrating ocean considerations into climate and nature strategies Contributing to ocean science and data-sharing Reducing pollution and promoting circularity across value chains Scaling investment in ocean innovation and sustainable blue finance Supporting a just transition, including skills and livelihoods for coastal communities Raising awareness and making the ocean a shared responsibility From clean shipping and offshore energy to blue biotechnologies and eco-tourism, companies are already moving—but the declaration urges faster, broader action. Policy Priorities To scale impact, the private sector also calls on governments to: Ratify and implement key agreements on fisheries subsidies, deep-sea mining, plastics, and climate-smart shipping Integrate ocean targets into national climate and biodiversity plans Invest in ocean science and strengthen science-policy interfaces Develop robust and innovative financing mechanisms—such as blended finance and blue bonds Plan for long-term coastal adaptation and sea-level rise With these steps, governments can help unlock the full potential of ocean-positive business models and strengthen economic and climate resilience worldwide. What’s Next The Business Call to Action remains open for additional signatures and serves as a concrete contribution to the post-UNOC3 momentum. ICC and its partners will continue to amplify business leadership and push for the enabling frameworks needed to deliver real-world results. A healthy ocean is the foundation for a resilient economy. Let’s work together to protect it—on land and at sea (John W.H. Denton AO, ICC Secretary General).