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Explore ICC's Dispute Resolution Services, offering global solutions like ICC Arbitration and ADR to help businesses efficiently resolve disputes. Learn about ICC's expertise, services, and commitment to maintaining business continuity through fair and effective dispute resolution. Dispute Resolution With unmatched levels of excellence in arbitration and ADR services, we facilitate the prevention and resolution of disputes for companies, states and individuals, making business work for everyone, every day, everywhere. Dispute Resolution Services Dispute Resolution Services When commercial disputes arise, ICC’s market-leading dispute resolution services can be relied on to resolve them as efficiently and economically as possible. ICC Netherlands DRS Committee ICC Netherlands DRS Committee The Dutch Arbitration and DRS Committee consists of experts from corporate, law firm and organizational members of ICC Netherlands. Arbitrator & ADR Database Arbitrator & ADR Database Access a comprehensive database of qualified arbitrators and ADR professionals connected with ICC Netherlands, tailored to meet your dispute resolution needs. DSR Services The Dutch Arbitrator & Mediator Database The National Nominations Commission International Centre for Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) International Court of Arbitration File your Request for Arbitration What DRS offers In an increasingly tumultuous trade environment where access to justice and the rule of law are key to ensuring business continuity, ICC Dispute Resolution Services (DSR) facilitate the resolution of commercial disputes with unmatched levels of service. ICC DRS offers a range of services to promote the continuity of global trade by helping commercial parties avoid, manage and resolve their disputes efficiently. Dispute Resolution Services, including ICC Arbitration and dispute avoidance tools, ensure that when disputes arise, they are resolved quickly and efficiently. This allows parties to focus on their core business priorities with complete peace of mind, thanks to cost and process transparency, security and confidentiality. How DRS works To resolve disputes effectively and efficiently, businesses need a fair process and equal access to justice. Arbitration and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms give parties fast, predictable, cost effective and efficient access to justice which is why businesses include arbitration and ADR clauses in their commercial contracts. ICC DRS offers a wide choice of customisable services for every stage of a dispute, from the services offered by the ICC International Centre for ADR (mediation, experts, dispute boards and docdex) to ICC Arbitration, delivered by the most trusted institution worldwide: the ICC International Court of Arbitration . ICC’s range of administered procedures can be used separately, successively or even concurrently as an alternative to litigation for resolving domestic and international disputes. ICC Arbitration is a process guided by the ICC Rules of Arbitration . ICC’s globally accessible and completely neutral services are available to anyone, from individuals and private sector enterprises to states and state entities. Anyone can benefit from ICC Arbitration’s flexibility and effectiveness. The only requirement for a party to be able to benefit from ICC Arbitration is to consent to its use in a contract, treaty or separate arbitration agreement. This is usually provided for before a dispute arises, but may also occur after the dispute has taken place. The International Court of Arbitration is the world’s leading arbitral institution. Since 1923, ICC has been helping to resolve disputes in international commercial and investment disputes. Unrivalled in experience and expertise, the ICC Court and its Secretariat are always ready to assist parties and arbitral tribunals with any questions relating to the conduct of the arbitration and strive to ensure ICC awards are enforceable. The Court’s Secretariat, with over 100 lawyers and support personnel, operating through offices in Paris, Hong Kong, New York, Singapore, Sao Paolo, and Abu Dhabi administers cases in any chosen language. It continuously seeks to improve efficiency, control time and costs, and aid enforcement by introducing innovative new arbitration tools and procedures. This ongoing focus makes certain that ICC is always in touch with the concerns and interests of trading partners throughout the world. ICC Rules of Arbitration Useful links ICC Mediation Rules Commission on Arbitration and ADR reports ICC Dispute Resolution Library ICC Dispute Resolution Bulletin Click here Click here Click here Click here Click here Law Firms Allen Overy Shearman Sterling LLP Avizor Cleber N.V. CMS Derks Star Busmann Conway & Partners De Brauw Blackstone Westbroek Derains & Gharavi DLA Piper Nederland N.V. Van Doorne N.V. Eversheds Sutherland (Netherlands) B.V. Fieldfisher N.V Florent B.V. HBN LAW TAX B.V. Houthoff Int. Bureau of Fiscal Documentation Kennedy Van der Laan Kneppelhout & Korthals NV Legaltree Lemstra van der Korst Advocaten Linklaters LLP NautaDutilh N.V. OMVR Advocaten Ploum, Rotterdam Law Firm Stibbe B.V. Van Doorne N.V. Van Traa Advocaten Vanguard International Dispute Resolution Wladimiroff Advocaten Sole Lawyers A-Lex BV AlAlim Legal B.V. Ameli International Arbitration Bitter Advocatuur Conway Arbitration B.V. De Ly BV Leijnse Artz LK Investment & Migration Law Lumen Lawyers Marieke Witkamp LLC NEERVOORT Mediation Arbitration Prof. mr. Snijders Schaberg Advocatuur & Mediation The Faithful Goose B.V. Van Hooft-Legal Willem H. van Baren B.V. International Court of Arbitration The International Court of Arbitration® is the world’s leading arbitral institution. Since 1923, it has been helping to resolve difficulties in international commercial and business disputes to support trade and investment. The Court exercises judicial supervision of arbitration proceedings. Its purpose is to ensure proper application of the ICC Rules, as well as to assist parties and arbitrators in overcoming procedural obstacles. International Centre for ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution) The ICC International Centre for ADR offers a range of services that can be used separately, successively or even concurrently. ADR services include mediation, expert appraisal, dispute boards and DOCDEX. All ICC amicable dispute resolution solutions give parties a procedural framework for settling matters quickly, cordially and in the most cost-effective way. International Centre for ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution) In ad hoc cases, the arbitration will be administered by the arbitrators themselves. the parties may require the assistance of a state court or ICC as appointing authority to provide services such as the constitution of the arbitral tribunal. To provide this service, ICC applies a special set of rules: the Rules of ICC as Appointing Authority . They are designed for use in proceedings under UNCITRAL Arbitration Rules or other arbitration proceedings. Centenary of the ICC Court In 2023, we have celebrated 100 years of the ICC International Court of Arbitration®, the world’s leading arbitral institution. Since the inception of the ICC Court in 1923, we have remained at the forefront of supporting global trade and investment through dispute prevention and resolution. Discover our Dispute Resolution journey

Explore ICC's work in anti-corruption, integrity, corporate reporting, and human rights. Learn how our Commission promotes transparency and ethical practices, develops global policies, and provides tools to help businesses navigate compliance and uphold human rights standards. Anti-corruption, Integrity, Corporate reporting & Human Rights Free and fair competition, transparency, respect and compliance with the rule of law are a reflection of an efficiently functioning global economy. Discover the Commission's Key Initiatives The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) stands at the forefront of empowering businesses to operate with the highest standards of responsibility and ethics. Through an extensive suite of resources and tools, ICC is committed to assisting companies in enhancing their corporate conduct and practices. At the heart of this mission lies the ICC Commission on Anti-corruption, Integrity, Corporate Reporting, and Human Rights. This pivotal commission is formulating policy recommendations and creating actionable tools, all from a comprehensive global business standpoint. Our focus is on fostering corporate accountability, promoting transparency, and leading the charge against corruption. The Commission is a collective of esteemed experts and thought leaders from around the world, all united by a shared dedication to these critical issues. Each member brings a wealth of knowledge and experience, representing businesses that are deeply committed to advancing corporate integrity, ethical governance, and human rights. Anti-corruption & Integrity Discover Corporate Reporting Discover Human Rights Discover Combating Corruption Corruption represents a significant barrier to integrity in business dealings, eroding fair competition, skewing the allocation of resources, diminishing public trust, and weakening the rule of law. The susceptibility of businesses to corruption varies based on factors such as their size, degree of international activity, and the nature and scope of their operations. At the heart of corporate responsibility and sound governance, combating corruption is becoming a crucial part of companies' policies for managing their operations. Nonetheless, small to medium enterprises (SMEs) often find themselves at a disadvantage, lacking the resources to meet anti-corruption standards fully. The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has long championed the importance of businesses adhering to self-regulated compliance measures. It acknowledges the foundational role that international organizations and national governments play in eradicating corrupt practices, including extortion, solicitation, and bribery. Pioneering the fight against corruption, ICC issued its first set of anti-corruption guidelines in 1977 with the Rules of Conduct to Combat Extortion and Bribery. These rules, regularly updated, align with significant international legal frameworks like the OECD Convention on Combating Bribery of Foreign Public Officials (1997) and the United Nations Convention against Corruption (2003), marking critical advancements in the global effort against corruption. ICC’s suite of anti-corruption resources aims to empower the private sector with training and self-regulation tools, driving forward the global mission to eradicate corruption through practical, action-oriented solutions. ICC Rules on combating corruption 11 December 2023 The ICC Rules on Combating Corruption constitute the cornerstone of ICC's anti-corruption work, serving both as a tool for self-regulation by business and as a roadmap for governments in their efforts to fight extortion and bribery. Publications ICC Anti-corruption Clause 11 November 2016 This ICC Anti-corruption Clause is for companies to include in their agreements, whereby they undertake to comply with the ICC Rules on Combating Corruption or commit to put in place and maintain an anti-corruption compliance programme. The Week of Integrity The Week of Integrity is the annual multi-stakeholder initiative that aims to foster the exchange of knowledge and stimulate the debate on integrity in the workplace and in the boardroom, at all types of organizations. Visit our website Business and Human Rights The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) champions the critical role businesses play in upholding human rights and advocates for meaningful collaboration between governments and the business sector to exchange insights on developing and managing human rights obligations. The Business Imperative for Human Rights Protection Businesses are instrumental in fostering peaceful, inclusive societies, which are at the heart of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By respecting human rights, companies not only align with ethical standards but also contribute significantly to the global mission of achieving these goals. Guiding Businesses Towards Human Rights Compliance The United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights serve as a comprehensive framework outlining the responsibilities of governments and businesses in safeguarding human rights. ICC is committed to facilitating the adoption of these principles by the business community. Numerous ICC member companies have already made strides in ensuring human rights protection by establishing grievance mechanisms for remedy within their operations. The Essential Role of Governments While the business community plays a crucial role in respecting human rights, the foundational responsibility lies with Governments. ICC encourages governments to proactively engage with businesses, leveraging the sector's valuable experiences in implementing human rights commitments. This collaborative approach is key to enhancing the effectiveness of human rights protection globally. Discover the initiatives to galvanize both businesses and governments towards the advancement of Human Rights. ICC initiatives for Human Rights Corporate Reporting In an increasingly regulated world, companies are confronted with the daunting task of navigating through a complex maze of new regulations. These emerging standards worldwide not only place a significant burden of proof on businesses regarding their reporting practices but also have profound financial implications. The intricacies of compliance are further compounded by the imperative to maintain a level playing field both within the European Union (EU) and in the broader global market. Successfully managing these challenges is essential for companies aiming to preserve their competitive edge and uphold their integrity in the international arena. The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) stands at the forefront of global business representation, advocating tirelessly to ensure that the voice of business is heard and that the conditions necessary for businesses to thrive and engage in international trade are maintained. ICC is dedicated to developing tools and resources that assist companies in refining their corporate reporting and operational strategies to meet these evolving challenges. Recognizing the critical link between responsible business conduct and corporate success, more businesses are integrating principles of transparency, ethics, and risk management into their governance frameworks. These practices are pivotal not only for effective management but also for bolstering a company's reputation and securing its long-term financial prosperity. Four ICC leaders will be co-leading task forces of the B20 group, the platform for the international business community to support the work of the G20 process organised under the stewardship of host country Brazil this year. ICC to guide business priorities for G20

< Back < Previous | Next > Digital Trade Data flows in supply chains: Practical realities and policy implications 11 Jun 2025 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. Why are cross-border data flows essential to modern supply chains? Cross-border data flows are essential for efficient, resilient, and interconnected global supply chains. They enable real-time coordination, including traceability, custom clearance and the deployment of digital tools such as IoT and AI-driven analytics. Restrictive data policies, however, can create significant barriers that disrupt these interconnected systems. Such restrictions slow down trade, increase operational costs, and disproportionately impact MSMEs – the backbone of global economies – who may be excluded from global markets due to complex, costly compliance requirements. What’s stopping data from moving freely? Despite their critical role, cross-border data flows face growing regulatory hurdles. The lack of multilateral coordination and a fragmented regulatory landscape create barriers to trade and disrupt supply chains. Key issues range from data localisation mandates – which require companies to store and process data within national borders – to conflicting privacy and cybersecurity rules which increase compliance burdens. These fragmented regulatory approaches create uncertainty and act as non-tariff barriers to trade. They create inefficiencies, limit business opportunities and undermine the ability of companies to optimize supply chain operations, international scalability and competitiveness. ICC recommendations: what can policymakers do to fix it? Pursue new rules at the WTO to enable trusted, secure, and predictable cross-border data flows. Promote risk-based approaches that differentiate between personal and non-personal data. Ensure interoperable data standards and avoid blanket localisation requirements that require all data, regardless of type, to be stored locally. Protect Confidential Business Information (CBI) in trade and data policies. Invest in MSME-friendly digital trade ecosystems, including trusted trader programmes. Download

< Back < Previous | Next > ICC Model Contract New ICC Model Contract on Commissioning & After-sales Services 18 Feb 2025 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. Companies purchasing a machine or industrial solution typically need to arrange for the provision of services to maintain the smooth functioning of operations. In the context of global trade, these services may be provided in a range of formats and across geographies. The increasing diversification and global reach of company operations highlight the need for a set of standard terms to govern such service arrangements. ICC has drafted this model contract to provide companies and their advisors with an internationally applicable, fair, and balanced template. The model covers the services connected to the supply of a machine, equipment, or an industrial solution. This typically involves installation; assembly and putting into operation (the ‘commissioning services’); and maintenance or after-sale services. The model is intended to service both manufacturers and suppliers of machines, equipment and industrial solutions, and companies providing such commissioning and maintenance and after sale services. Although the present model form has been established especially for international situations, nothing prevents the parties from using it for domestic contracts, i.e. contracts between parties having their place of business in the same country. Each ICC Model Contract includes a fully editable version in Microsoft Word, permitting you to easily adapt the contract to your specific case. Explore the ICC Model Contract: eBook: 845E ICC Model Contract Commissioning and After-sales Services | ICC WBO Netherlands

< Back < Previous | Next > ICC Executive Board approves revised Rules of Arbitration 23 Mar 2026 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has approved a revised version of its Rules of Arbitration. The new Rules will enter into force on 1 June 2026. The revisions aim to enhance efficiency, clarity and usability, while ensuring that ICC Arbitration continues to meet the needs of users worldwide. They follow the previous update, which entered into force in January 2021, and reflect the ongoing evolution of arbitration practice. The updated Rules introduce new procedures and improvements to existing provisions, with a focus on streamlining proceedings and supporting effective case management. At the same time, they preserve the flexibility that characterises ICC Arbitration, including the ability of parties to select arbitrators and tailor procedures within the framework of the Rules. Claudia Salomon, President of the ICC International Court of Arbitration, said: “The revised Rules reflect our commitment to ensuring ICC Arbitration meets the needs of businesses, states and state entities worldwide. ICC Arbitration gives parties the confidence to enter into agreements knowing that their disputes can be resolved fairly and effectively if they arise. These revisions make the Rules clearer and arbitration more efficient, while preserving the flexibility and procedural integrity that parties expect. Ultimately, the revised Rules ensure a trusted dispute resolution process that underpins international trade and investment.” To date, over 30,000 cases have been registered with the ICC International Court of Arbitration under the ICC Arbitration Rules. The latest revisions – undertaken by the Bureau of the ICC Court and the ICC Secretariat, with input from the ICC Commission on Arbitration and ADR, ICC Court Members, and the ICC Governing Body for Dispute Resolution Services – are in line with commitments set out in the ICC Centenary Declaration on Dispute Prevention and Resolution, and reaffirm ICC’s leading, role in promoting efficient, neutral and trusted dispute resolution. The approval of the new Rules comes amid continued strong use of ICC Arbitration. In 2025, 881 cases were filed under the Rules, with the total value of pending disputes reaching US$299 billion. Disputes ranged from just under US$2,500 to US$31 billion, reflecting the wide scope of cases administered by ICC. In a 2025 global arbitration survey, the ICC Arbitration Rules were ranked as the most preferred arbitration rules worldwide among more than 60 sets, and across all major regions. The revised Rules will apply to all requests for arbitration filed on or after 1 June 2026. Users are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the updated provisions ahead of their entry into force, in particular where new procedural requirements may affect the filing of cases. ICC will release the 2026 Arbitration Rules and provide further information and practical guidance to support users and practitioners in the lead-up to 1 June 2026. ICC Executive Board approves revised Rules of Arbitration - ICC - International Chamber of Commerce

< Back Bartholomeus Leijnse Leijnse Artz Arbitrator Biography Bartholomeus P.H. Leijnse (1962) graduated in Dutch law (1988) and in philosophy (1994); practicing lawyer since 1992, at Nauta Dutilh until 2001; founding partner of the boutique firm Leijnse Artz in Rotterdam (2001), focusing on commercial interests in highly regulated markets (food, consumer goods, health care and pharma). Counsel in numerous domestic and international arbitrations under various rules; chair, co-arbitrator, emergency and sole arbitrator in numerous cases in institutional (NAI, ICC, WIPO) and ad hoc arbitrations. Contact Details Netherlands +31 10 2444344 b.leijnse@leijnseartz.com Additional Links Link About ICC Netherlands We ensure that Dutch business interests are heard and represented in international policymaking. We deliver tools and standards that simplify cross-border business like model contracts or Incoterms®. We support fair and efficient dispute resolution . Become a member Upcoming events Learn more Check our latest news! News Languages Spoken Dutch, English Specialisation Joint Ventures, Corporate Law / M&A, Product Liability, Life Sciences and Healthcare, Shareholder Disputes, International Trade Contracts Bar Admission(s) Credentials CV

< Back Professor Albert Jan van den Berg Hanotiau & van den Berg Arbitrator Biography Professor Albert Jan van den Berg is a partner at Hanotiau & van den Berg (Brussels, Belgium). He is a sought-after presiding and party-appointed arbitrator in numerous international commercial and investment arbitrations. He also acts as counsel in international commercial arbitrations and in set aside proceedings. Professor van den Berg is Honorary President of the International Council for Commercial Arbitration, having served as President from 2014–2016. He is Distinguished Faculty Co-Chair of the International Arbitration LL.M. Program at the University of Miami School of Law and a Visiting Professor at Georgetown University Law Center, National University of Singapore Faculty of Law and Tsinghua University School of Law. Professor van den Berg is also a member of the faculty and the advisory board of the University of Geneva Master in International Dispute Settlement Program. He is Emeritus Professor (Arbitration Chair) at Erasmus University, Rotterdam. He is Honorary President of the Netherlands Arbitration Institute, having served as its President and Secretary General, and former Vice-President of the London Court of International Arbitration. Professor van den Berg has published extensively on international arbitration (see www.hvdb.com ), in particular, the New York Convention of 1958 (see www.newyorkconvention.org ). His awards include: Global Arbitration Review, Best Prepared and Most Responsive Arbitrator in 2013; The International Who’s Who Legal, Arbitration: Lawyer of the Year in 2006, 2011 and 2017. Contact Details Belgium +32 2290 3913 ajvandenberg@hvdb.com Additional Links Link About ICC Netherlands We ensure that Dutch business interests are heard and represented in international policymaking. We deliver tools and standards that simplify cross-border business like model contracts or Incoterms®. We support fair and efficient dispute resolution . Become a member Upcoming events Learn more Check our latest news! News Languages Spoken Dutch, English, Italian, Spanish, German, French Specialisation Aviation, Finance and Banking, Construction, Distribution, Energy, Insurance, Investment / Public International Law, Joint Ventures, Licensing, Media, Pharmaceutical, Corporate Law / M&A, Real Estate, Sales, Renewable Energy, Sports, Telecoms Bar Admission(s) Credentials CV

< Back < Previous | Next > Competitiveness in times of Geo-economic Fragmentation Casper Roerade 3 Nov 2025 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. Competitiveness in times of Geo-economic Fragmentation Setting the Scene: A Geopolitical update “Integrity in Transition : Culture, Power & Pressure”. The global power dynamics have shifted and the great powers of the world are reinterpreting their role in the international system. This has profound implications for the global trading system. We have entered a world of ‘ fragmented multipolarity’ . A world in which the US and China are certainly the dominant players, but middle powers play a significant role in the international system. Multipolarity does not imply the equality of all major powers, but rather a fragmented system with large "system influencers." These are states that cannot expect to individually dominate a system, but nevertheless can significantly influence its nature through unilateral and multilateral actions. Think of Brazil, India, Saudi Arabia, but also the European Union (EU). These countries explicitly reject the "Cold War mentality" and consciously opt for strategic autonomy instead of one side. The EU calls it "open strategic autonomy," India calls it "multi-alignment," Brazil's "autonomia pela diversificação," and so on. Furthermore, it is not just a world of several players but a fragmented system. Not ordered around one or two dominant countries, not governed by fixed alliances and institutions but rather characterised by shifting issue-specific coalitions. This will require the EU to adopt a pragmatic approach whilst not relinquishing our values. As Henry Kissinger aptly wrote in his 1957 doctoral dissertation about the multipolar world of the 19 th century: “Whatever else a revolutionary power may achieve, it tends to erode if not the legitimacy of the international order, the restraint with which such order operates. Principles of obligation in a period of legitimacy are taken so much for granted that they are never talked about, and such periods therefore appear to posterity as shallow and self-righteous. Principles in a revolutionary situation are so central that they are constantly talked about. The very sterility of the effort soon drains them of all meaning.” Such is the challenge we face today. We are seeing many countries shirking the rules and norms of our trading system which used to be unchallenged. National security, a legitimate exemption to WTO rules under article XXI of the GATT, is roundly abused nowadays. Between 2010 and 2019, countries invoked this security concern at the WTO only eight times per year on average, but in 2024, the number of notifications reached a record high of 95. Many states, not just the US, are increasingly taking advantage of the absence of a functional Appellate Body to block WTO panel rulings by appealing into the void. Since the Appellate Body collapse, developing countries have accounted for more than half of all appeals into the void. The use of sanctions has exploded and International Investment Agreement (IIAA) terminations have exceeded newly enforced IIAs since 2017. Trade is reconfiguring accordingly. Geopolitical distance of trade (i.e. trade between politically distant countries) has decreased, as the EU and US are de-risking from China. Meanwhile new high growth corridors are emerging: EU-India, China-ASEAN and India-Middle East. As competition heats up, China has demonstrated its resolve to stand firm against economic coercion. Caught flatfooted by Trump 1.0, they have clearly expanded their arsenal for supply chain warfare. With its own export controls, unreliable entities list and antitrust reviews, China is leveraging its manufacturing centrality to choke off supplies of rare earths, batteries and green tech. China feels assured that it has won the first round of the trade war in April/May when it forced the US to back off sky-high tariffs with its rare earths export restrictions. A May 2025 national security whitepaper signaled a confident Beijing less willing to compromise. In this era of ‘ weaponized interdependence’ European businesses face a difficult prospect reconciling corporate and European interests. With China aiming to draw in as much technology, capital, and data as possible, while making it harder for firms to move out. Any rapprochement with China as signaled by the Trump-Xi meeting in South-Korea will be ephemeral as long as Chinese industrial policy enables overcapacity. The outcome of the 4th Plenum (20-23 Oct) and subsequent new Five-Year Plan up to 2030 demonstrates only that China will double down on self-reliance and industrial output. For example, China’s largest single tax, the value-added tax (VAT), is split evenly between the central government and the local government of the place where a good or service is produced , instead of where it is consumed . Since the system allocates tax revenue to regions based on production, it rewards continuous expansion of industrial bases. Local Chinese officials try to retain as much upstream and downstream activity as they can to expand their tax base. Provincial five-year are duplicates, each promising the same clusters in the same industries, offering discounted land and utilities, and guarantee quick regulatory approvals. The resulting overcapacity is the logical outcome of a tax and subsidy system that rewards scale over selectivity. Tensions will persist and business will need to navigate the dilemmas of adhering to third country laws and political alignment with the home market. How to balance compliance, impact, and geopolitical realities. It will be the challenge of our time as businesses seek to be competitive under conditions of geo-economic fragmentation. Casper Roerade is policy advisor for mainports and international supply chains at evofenedex, the leading Dutch association for logistics and international business. He specializes in supply chain resilience, trade policy, and logistics, advising companies on how to anticipate global developments and strengthen their strategic position. With an extensive network across both the Netherlands and international markets, Casper bridges politics and business to help shape future-proof supply chains in a fragmented global economy.

< Back < Previous | Next > Shaping the next chapter of global trade: the business agenda for MC14 27 Feb 2026 Ahead of WTO MC14, 145 business organisations are urging reform and renewal of the digital trade Moratorium. This will have direct implications on legal certainty, cross-border data flows and the competitiveness of Dutch companies operating globally. Shaping the Next Chapter of Global Trade: The Business Agenda for MC14 In March 2026, ministers will gather in Yaoundé for the 14th Ministerial Conference (MC14) of the World Trade Organization. The conference takes place at a time of increased trade tensions, expanding unilateral measures and growing uncertainty in global markets. For the Netherlands – one of the most open and trade-dependent economies in the world – this context has direct implications. Dutch companies operate in global value chains that depend on predictable market access, enforceable trade rules and stable digital connectivity. When those conditions weaken, businesses face higher compliance costs, greater contractual risk and more complex supply chain management. Against this backdrop, 145 chambers of commerce and business associations from all regions have endorsed a Global Business Statement urging WTO Members to launch a structured, time-bound reform process at MC14. The statement calls for restoring the WTO’s ability to negotiate updated rules, resolve disputes effectively and provide transparency in global trade. 2026-icc-MC14-Global-Business-Statement-1st-release-145-signatories .pdf Download PDF • 71KB Alongside systemic reform, the signatories underline an immediate priority: renewing the Moratorium on Customs Duties on Electronic Transmissions. The Moratorium, first introduced in 1998, prevents governments from imposing customs duties on cross-border electronic transmissions. Its renewal is once again on the MC14 agenda. Why this matters for Dutch business The Dutch government’s official position ahead of MC14 confirms that a well-functioning WTO remains essential for Dutch and European prosperity. Approximately three-quarters of global trade continues to take place under WTO rules. For a country that accounts for roughly 3% of world trade, the stability of that framework is not optional. The WTO underpins several practical aspects of business operations: Market access predictability. Exporters rely on bound tariff commitments and non-discrimination principles when entering foreign markets. Dispute settlement. When trade rules are breached, a functioning dispute mechanism provides legal recourse rather than political escalation. Level playing field. Clear disciplines on subsidies and state intervention help ensure fair competition. Digital continuity. Cross-border data flows increasingly support logistics, finance, professional services and advanced manufacturing. When institutional processes stall or enforcement weakens, uncertainty increases. This can translate into delayed investment decisions, higher risk premiums and more complex compliance requirements. The Dutch “Kaderinstructie” for MC14 highlights the importance of safeguarding core WTO principles, advancing institutional reform and maintaining the Moratorium on electronic transmissions. These priorities closely align with the positions articulated by the International Chamber of Commerce at global level. From institutional debate to operational consequences The discussion around the e-commerce Moratorium illustrates how systemic issues translate directly into operational business impact. For nearly three decades, WTO Members have refrained from applying customs duties to electronic transmissions. This has provided legal certainty for cloud computing, data analytics, software distribution and digitally enabled services. If the Moratorium were not renewed at MC14, WTO Members would be free to introduce such duties. For companies relying on cross-border cloud infrastructure, this could lead to: Higher recurring operational costs; Reassessment of data storage and processing architecture; Fragmentation of IT systems across jurisdictions; Increased administrative complexity. An example cited in ICC discussions is HARA, an Indonesian agri-tech company that relies on global cloud services to process satellite imagery and verified farmer data. The affordability of cross-border digital services enables traceability, financial inclusion and export compliance. Additional duties on electronic transmissions would directly increase costs and affect scalability. While the Dutch economic structure differs, the underlying exposure is comparable. Dutch logistics operators, agri-food exporters, fintech companies and technology firms rely heavily on integrated digital services across borders. Even moderate cost increases or regulatory fragmentation can have cumulative effects, particularly for SMEs. In this sense, the Moratorium is not a technical trade provision; it forms part of the infrastructure that supports modern commerce. ICC’s global advocacy and business mobilisation In preparation for MC14, ICC has issued a Call to Action urging WTO Members to launch formal reform negotiations with a concrete work programme. Key elements include: Addressing institutional blockages that affect decision-making and plurilateral agreements; Reinforcing dispute settlement mechanisms; Ensuring structured engagement of the private sector; Committing to a standstill on new trade-restrictive measures; and Maintaining the Moratorium on Customs Duties on Electronic Transmissions. The Global Business Statement, now endorsed by 145 organisations worldwide, demonstrates broad cross-regional support for these priorities. The objective is pragmatic: restore confidence in the multilateral trading system and ensure it remains relevant to contemporary trade realities. ICC Netherlands: connecting global advocacy and national input At national level, ICC Netherlands convened a round table on 29 January to gather input from Dutch companies and partner organisations ahead of MC14. Discussions addressed dispute settlement, industrial subsidies, digital trade, sustainability and the broader reform agenda. The insights collected were transmitted to ICC’s global network and contributed to shaping the international business position. Importantly, there is substantial alignment between ICC advocacy and the Dutch government’s official MC14 framework. Such alignment enhances policy coherence. When national positions reflect practical business considerations, and those positions are reinforced at global level, the likelihood of consistent implementation increases. For internationally active companies, this consistency contributes to predictability. Looking ahead to MC14 MC14 is unlikely to resolve all systemic challenges facing the WTO. However, several outcomes would provide tangible value for business: Launching a structured reform process with defined timelines; Renewing the Moratorium to preserve digital trade stability; Reinforcing dialogue mechanisms that integrate private sector expertise into reform discussions. In the weeks leading up to MC14, ICC Netherlands will continue engaging with members and stakeholders to ensure that Dutch business perspectives remain visible in international discussions. Members wishing to contribute can: Participate in ICC NL trade and digitalisation workstreams; Share operational experiences related to digital trade, supply chain challenges or regulatory barriers; Endorse the Global Business Statement in support of WTO reform and Moratorium renewal. The multilateral trading system remains a cornerstone of international commerce. While reform is necessary, continuity and predictability remain essential. The decisions taken at MC14 will influence not only institutional dynamics, but also the daily operating environment of companies trading across borders. ICC Netherlands will continue to provide a channel for constructive business input as this process unfolds.

< Back < Previous | Next > ICC Trade Register 2025 30 Oct 2025 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. ICC Trade Register 2025 The global benchmark for trade and supply chain finance For over a decade, the ICC Trade Register has provided the most authoritative, data-driven picture of global trade and supply chain finance. With aggregated data from leading international banks, now exceeding USD 25.7 trillion in transactions , it has become the industry’s reference point for understanding risk, guiding regulation, and shaping how trade finance supports the real economy. From data to policy impact The ICC Trade Register is more than a database: it is a strategic instrument for the financial system . Its empirical evidence has influenced major prudential reforms, ensuring that trade finance receives the risk-sensitive treatment it deserves under Basel III . Over the years, ICC data has: Demonstrated the short-term, self-liquidating nature of trade finance instruments, leading to the maturity flow waiver ; Supported a reduction in Credit Conversion Factors from 50 % to 20 % for performance guarantees in the EU and UK; Secured lower Required Stable Funding under the Net Stable Funding Ratio (from 10 % to 2.5 %); Helped regulators adopt Exposure at Default (EAD) instead of full nominal values for leverage ratio calculations. These outcomes are not abstract. They translate into 30–60 % capital savings , up to 90 % reductions in expected credit loss provisions , and EUR 1–2 million in annual liquidity savings for mid-size and large banks. A clearer view of trade finance performance The 2025 edition of the Trade Register provides insight into a trade landscape being reshaped by geopolitics, digitalisation and sustainability. Its findings confirm that trade finance remains one of the lowest-risk asset classes in banking, even amid uncertainty. Key trends include: Receivables finance is now the fastest-growing trade product, projected to expand at a 5.4 % CAGR through 2033 ; Sustainable trade finance continues to rise — 3.1 % of global transactions are clearly green, and 74 % show potential sustainability alignment; Digital trade is gaining legal force, with MLETR-based legislation now covering around 10 % of global exports; Artificial intelligence is moving from pilot projects to enterprise-wide tools, improving efficiency and compliance across banking operations. These shifts underscore how technology, regulation and sustainability are converging to redefine trade finance — turning it into both a growth engine and a channel for responsible investment. Membership: data, dialogue, and influence Participating in the ICC Trade Register gives banks access to exclusive benchmarking, early insights, and a direct voice in policy discussions. Members benefit from: Early access to the complete report and datasets; Peer benchmarking of trade finance portfolios; Members-only briefings on regulatory developments; Active participation in steering discussions that guide the industry’s collective advocacy. By contributing data, member institutions help build the evidence base that underpins future engagement with the Basel Committee , the European Central Bank , and other regulators, ensuring that the risk profile of trade finance is recognised fairly and accurately. “The ICC Trade Register has become the global benchmark for our industry, providing clarity, confidence and tangible impact.”Samuel Mathew, Chair of the ICC Trade Register and Managing Director, Head of Documentary Trade at Standard Chartered Accessing the Trade Register 2025 The ICC Trade Register can be downloaded instantly and digitally via 2go.iccwbo.org .Institutions can choose from four levels of access: global overview, regional breakdown, single-region detail, or full report with Loss Given Default (LGD) data. Financial institutions that wish to contribute data or join as members can contact the ICC Trade Register team directly. Learn more ICC Trade Register 2025 Brochure – Full overview of insights, membership and access options. ICC Trade Register Strategic Preview – A closer look at the data’s regulatory influence and the 2025 outlook. ICC Banking Commission – ICC’s global rule-making body for the banking industry.

< Back < Previous | Next > Geopolitics Beyond the West: Rethinking Europe’s Role in the Global Order Alex Krijger 30 Jun 2025 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. Alex Krijger Alex Krijger is a historian, geopolitical advisor, and founder of Krijger & Partners, a consultancy firm specialising in government relations and geopolitical risk. With a career spanning the military, politics, and global energy, he has served as a Dutch army officer, senior figure in the Christian Democratic Party, and a lecturer of geoeconomics at Leiden University. In this interview, he shares insights from the 2025 NATO Summit, discusses Europe’s place in a shifting global order, and warns: “We are not the centre of the universe anymore.” Let’s start off with current events. You attended the recent NATO Summit in The Hague. What are your main takeaways? It was a historic summit with a historic result. In the future, we will talk about the 2025 NATO Summit the same way we talk about the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement and the Maastricht Treaty of 1992. While in 2019 Emmanuel Macron said that NATO was becoming ‘brain dead’, this Summit shows that the Transatlantic Alliance – and Article 5 – is still alive. Europeans will take more ownership of their own defence and security (5% GDP at the latest in 2035), with the need to act quickly because of the Russian threat. That’s the priority. Now that the NATO Summit is over, what’s next? Over the last few days, European leaders have promised a lot of things. However, it’s always easier to promise things than do them because it’s the doing that requires the money. There is hundreds of billions of investment required and European taxpayers have to pay for that. That will hurt. On the other hand – looking at the bigger picture – it is crystal clear that, for the first time since World War Two, Europeans now have to stand on their own feet in terms of energy, raw materials, economy, security and defence. Do you agree that this a fundamental – almost seismic – shift in global relationships? The reality of the world today is that the world order is shifting. Yes, the United States remains by far the biggest power politically, militarily, economically; there’s no doubt about it. We have a strong number two, which is China. And then we have the Global South with ‘middle’ powers like Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, Indonesia and, in particular, India. In the coming decades, we are heading towards a world with three major powers: the U.S., China and India. Where does Europe fit in to this new world order? It is important to realise that, as Europeans, we are not the centre of the universe anymore. The population of the European Union is 450 million: that’s 5.5% of the world population. That means that 94 out of 100 people in the world don’t live here in Europe. But what do we know about people in the Global South? About people in Latin America, Africa and Asia – regions where there is enormous growth? Can we talk more about Europe’s relationship with the Global South. What are the main issues? When it comes to building a stronger, more autonomous Europe, Europe needs to look more to the south. That’s because the rare materials for the digital transformation and for the sustainable energy, the population growth, market growth, economic growth: it’s all in the Global South. Another point is that, on the last day at the NATO Summit, many Western leaders talked about the need to maintain the international rules-based order. However, many leaders in the Global South don’t consider Europeans to be honest when it comes to maintaining and implementing the rules-based order because they see a difference in values in how Europe deals with Ukraine, the Middle East, and, the biggest war of all of them, Sudan. As long as we still look at the world through our Eurocentric lens, then we don’t see what’s really going on around the world. And if we – and organisations like the ICC in particular – don’t open up towards countries, decision makers and businesses in the Global South, then we are missing out. What are the key factors that European companies should take into account when looking at the Global South? Now we’re coming to something fundamental: in the new world order, the Global South will no longer accept an unequal balance of trade. Therefore, it’s crucial that we stimulate situations where trade relationships are fair, equal and sustainable. Otherwise countries like Brazil, India and Indonesia will say ‘we won’t do business with Europeans: we’ll do it with the Chinese’. The upcoming BRICS Summit in Brazil is a good example. If we ignore that, then we are doing something wrong because this is not just an annual meeting of few countries. No, it’s a growing, important international network and many countries want to be a member. Let’s not underestimate the BRICS – they are doing a lot of work on international trade. What is the impact of the changing world order on international institutions like the United Nations and the World Trade Organisation? It’s crucial to understand that the shift in world order means that international organisations and institutions have to be reformed. Think about the global conflicts at the moment. The 12-day war between Iran and Israel; the UN did not play a role. Ukraine; the role of UN is very limited. Even the war between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo; a peace deal was signed just a few days ago with American intervention. On the subject of international trade, all the issues and the tariffs between the U.S. and China, the U.S. and Europe, are all being managed within their own regions; without the influence of the WTO. In the United Nations today, India has the same power as a country as small as Malta. That’s crazy because India is the world’s biggest democracy, has the largest population, and has the fourth largest economy. The UN, WTO, IMF, the World Bank, and the ICC need to realise that the world order is shifting. If we don’t reform these institutions to reflect the current world order, then the rest of the world will create their own new international institutions like BRICS. Do you have any advice for companies on how to manage geopolitical risk? If you want to manage geopolitical risk, it’s important to understand the global geopolitical trends. For this, you need to not only use Western European sources for your risk assessments. Let’s use an example of a company with 40%+ business interests in China and Taiwan. We don’t know what will happen in the future regarding Taiwan, but we can always make scenarios: one worst-case scenario, one best-case scenario, and one in the middle. This requires a lot of homework; talking with many people, local, provincial, national politicians, journalists, academics, businesspeople etc to get an understanding of the political risks. Based on those scenarios, you can make your geopolitical risk assessment: identifying, analysing and mitigating the risks. You also need to use strategic and analytic sources from that region; if you only use reports from Europe and the U.S., then you are doing something wrong. It’s about trying to see the bigger picture of the geopolitical trends – also from the perspective of the country you are doing business with. For example, what happens in India; try to understand it from the Indian perspective. What happens in the U.S.; try to understand it from the American perspective. That’s the work I do with my global partners: prepare geopolitical risk scenarios and strategies for small, medium and large international operating companies Where can we obtain this local perspective? Our view of the world is strongly determined by the media sources we use. I often ask people what sources they use for their news. And more often than not, they mention sources that are Dutch, European or American. This means that they are missing out on the perspective of the rest of the world. So, to the people who are reading this interview, I want to ask them: How often do you use a non-Western source to gain a different perspective on geopolitical trends and developments? This allows you to inform yourself as diversely as possible, with new and different insights. I recently published quite an extensive list of global news sources. This is a great place to start. You can find Alex Krijger’s suggested list of global news sources here .

< Back < Previous | Next > Digitalisation The Netherlands Moves on eBL Legislation — But More is Needed for True Trade Digitalisation 15 May 2025 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). The Dutch government has taken an important first step in the digitalisation of trade by submitting the draft law Invoering van het elektronisch cognossement to Parliament. If passed, the law will align the Netherlands with early adopters such as France, Germany, and the UK , who have already advanced legislative work on this topic. It draws inspiration from the UNCITRAL Model Law on Electronic Transferable Records (MLETR), but stops short of full implementation. 📄 Read the draft law here The proposal, submitted on 14 May 2025, amends Book 8 of the Dutch Civil Code to give eBLs legal equivalence with their paper counterparts in maritime shipping. A three-year review clause has been included to assess the possibility of extending the law to other types of electronic transport documents. While this is a welcome development, ICC Netherlands and other stakeholders argue that the bill, though important, is too narrow in scope. A forthcoming white paper developed by ICC Netherlands calls for the full adoption of MLETR, not just for eBLs but for all forms of transferable electronic trade documents, including warehouse receipts, promissory notes, and bills of exchange. The reason is simple: partial reform limits impact. As it stands, the bill’s narrow focus creates a fragmented legal framework that risks undermining the efficiency gains digitalisation promises. Without legal clarity for a broader range of trade documents, businesses and financial institutions may hesitate to embrace digital workflows. Moreover, the Netherlands risks falling behind jurisdictions that have already implemented MLETR in full, including Bahrain, Singapore, the Abu Dhabi Global Market, as well as key trading partners like France, Germany, and the UK, who have each taken significant legislative steps toward full adoption. These jurisdictions are increasingly becoming attractive trade hubs for companies seeking a legally certain digital environment. According to a 2023 DCSA survey, eBL adoption stood at just 5% globally—despite broad consensus on the benefits. Legal uncertainty remains a primary barrier, particularly among banks and insurers who rely on negotiable instruments in trade finance. ICC Netherlands’ position is clear: if the Netherlands is serious about becoming a digital trade leader, it must move beyond this single-document approach. Full MLETR adoption would: • Ensure legal clarity across the full lifecycle of trade finance instruments • Enable interoperability with international platforms and legal regimes • Promote efficiency and resilience in supply chains • Reduce costs and carbon emissions by eliminating paper-based processes We welcome the government’s initiative and recognise it as a foundational step. But foundational steps must lead somewhere. A broader, more ambitious legislative trajectory is not only desirable — it is necessary. ICC Netherlands will continue to advocate for full MLETR implementation and invites companies, policymakers, and trade practitioners to join the conversation. The future of trade is digital — and the legal framework must keep up.