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Docdex When disputes related to trade finance instruments occur, ICC offers a specialised procedure that is confidential, quick and cost-effective called Documentary Instruments Dispute Resolution Expertise (DOCDEX). Parties may file a Request for a DOCDEX Decision for any dispute relating to: a documentary credit; a standby letter of credit; a bank-to-bank reimbursement; a collection; a demand guarantee or counter-guarantee; a forfaiting transaction, a bank payment obligation (BPO); or any other trade finance-related instrument, undertaking or agreement. Depending on the amount in dispute, DOCDEX proceedings are capped at US$5,000 or US$10,000. What’s more, even in exceptional cases, the International Centre for ADR (“Centre”) will only charge an additional fee of US$3,000 or US$6,000. DOCDEX decision is a thorough analysis and well-considered conclusion with DOCDEX. Cases are decided by a panel of three impartial experts having extensive experience in, and knowledge of, trade finance transactions. These experts are specially selected from a list maintained by ICC Banking Commission. A Technical Adviser nominated by the Commission then personally reviews each decision to verify that it is in line with ICC Banking Rules and/or international trade finance practice standards. The entire process usually takes between two and three months, which is time-efficient compared to years with court proceedings. DOCDEX Decisions are kept private and rendered in English. They are not binding unless the parties have otherwise agreed and are not arbitral awards. However, anonymised DOCDEX Decisions are widely distributed to enable practitioners to avoid common errors leading to disputes while at the same time preserving confidentiality. Advantages of Docdex Cost-effective Straightforward prodecure Fast procedure Authoritative and Impartial decisions Experts ICC Banking and Dispute Resolution in one procedure DOCDEX Rules In force as of 1 May 2015, ICC Rules for Documentary Instruments Dispute Resolution Expertise (DOCDEX) provide parties with a specific resolution procedure that leads to an independent, impartial and prompt expert decision settling disputes involving trade finance-related instruments. Read more ICC DOCDEX Services This brochure introduces ICC DOCDEX — a specialized, document-based dispute resolution procedure designed specifically for the trade finance industry. Administered by the ICC International Centre for ADR, DOCDEX provides a rapid, impartial, and cost-effective alternative to litigation or arbitration. Read more DOCDEX expert Upon receipt of an admissible Claim, the ICC International Centre for ADR (“Centre”) shall appoint a panel of three experts (“Appointed Experts”) from a list maintained by the ICC Banking Commission (“List”). This List consists of experts having experience in, and knowledge of, trade finance transactions. The Chair of the Banking Commission is the repository of the List and can add or remove experts from the List at any time, as need be. In selecting the Appointed Experts, the Centre consults with the Technical Adviser to the ICC Banking Commission, who shall provide guidance on the area(s) of expertise that the Claim requires and that the Appointed Experts should possess. The Centre shall also designate one of the Appointed Experts to act as the president (“President”). The identities of the Appointed Experts remain confidential from the parties, and all communication between the parties and the Appointed Experts is conducted via the Centre.

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< Back < Previous | Next > ICC Report: Unlocking Private Sector Investment for Climate Adaptation 28 Aug 2025 Climate change is already costing the global economy trillions, yet adaptation finance continues to lag far behind what is needed. A new ICC–Oxera report highlights how the private sector can play a decisive role in closing this gap. With public funds alone insufficient, innovative instruments, better risk data, and enabling regulation are essential to unlock private investment at scale. As the official voice of business in the UN climate process, ICC will bring these recommendations to COP30 in Belém to advocate for a stronger role of business in building global climate resilience. ICC Report: Unlocking Private Sector Investment for Climate Adaptation Climate change is no longer a distant risk — it is already reshaping economies and societies worldwide. Extreme weather events caused over US$2 trillion in economic losses between 2014 and 2023 , directly affecting 1.6 billion people. Damages are escalating rapidly, with US$451 billion in losses recorded in just 2022–2023 . Despite this urgent need, adaptation finance lags far behind mitigation . In 2022, global mitigation finance reached US$1.3 trillion, while adaptation attracted only US$76 billion — and just 8% came from the private sector . Developing countries are particularly vulnerable: small island and least developed states paid over twice as much in debt service (US$59bn) as they received in climate finance (US$28bn). To address this gap, the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) commissioned Oxera to analyse how the private sector’s role in climate adaptation can be scaled up. The report highlights that public finance alone cannot meet the scale of the challenge . Unlocking private capital is essential to drive the innovation and investment needed to build resilience at speed and scale. Key recommendations The report sets out three strategic priorities for governments, regulators and financial institutions: Strengthen climate risk information and transparency Improve access to high-quality, open climate risk data. Mandate proportionate disclosure of physical climate risks across operations and supply chains. Standardise adaptation metrics and taxonomies to make resilience measurable and investable. Establish enabling institutions and regulatory incentives Embed business participation in National Adaptation Plans. Create sandboxes and procurement frameworks that reward climate resilience. Adjust capital requirements to reflect the benefits of resilient investments. Scale adaptation finance with innovative instruments Expand blended finance, resilience bonds and insurance-linked products. Develop adaptation bonds tied to avoided losses or service delivery outcomes. Leverage insurers’ data and expertise to guide investment and maintain coverage in high-risk areas. ICC at COP30 As the official voice of business in the UN climate negotiations (UNFCCC) , ICC will use this report to advocate for a stronger role of the private sector in climate adaptation at COP30 in Belém, Brazil . With adaptation expected to be a central theme of the talks, ICC’s recommendations aim to shape an actionable policy agenda that enables businesses to be true partners in building global climate resilience. Read the full report 2025-ICC-Oxera-The-role-of-the-private-sector-in-climate-adaptation-Full-report .pdf Download PDF • 3.33MB Read the summary 2025-ICC-Oxera-The-role-of-the-private-sector-in-climate-adaptation-Report-summary .pdf Download PDF • 163KB

< Back < Previous | Next > Business Business responds to US reciprocal tariff plan 2 Apr 2025 Following the announcement of the US reciprocal tariff plan, the International Chamber of Commerce has issued a statement describing the new measures as a shock to the global trading system that need not result in a systemic crisis. Speaking on behalf of more than 45 million companies in over 170 countries, ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO said: “What we’ve seen today represents a watershed moment in American trade policy that poses severe downside risks to the global economy. To put this in historical context, effective US tariff rates now stand at a level not seen since the 1930s — and cover a significantly higher proportion of American GDP than the infamous Smoot-Hawley Act. “This is, without doubt, a shock to the global trading system but it need not result in a systemic crisis. The US is an economic superpower but only accounts for 13% of global imports. How other nations respond to the new duties will ultimately determine the scale and depth of any economic fallout from “Liberation Day”. We continue to encourage governments to place an emphasis on negotiation and de-escalation to the greatest extent possible — tariff retaliation is a lose-lose game. “We are immediately concerned by the potential impact of the severe tariffs imposed on a range of emerging economies — an approach which risks further damaging the development prospects of countries already facing worsening terms of trade. “Businesses across our network will be seeking urgent clarification from the relevant US authorities on how new country-level tariffs will be applied in practice — including on how they interact with sector-specific duties and rules of origin requirements. Given the almost immediate entry into force of the new measures, there is a clear risk of costly supply chain disruptions and customs backlogs absent of express guidance being provided in a timely manner. “From a broader perspective, it’s clear that the measures announced today present a fundamental challenge to the rules-based governance of trade. In addition to responding bilaterally to the US administration, we also need to see governments taking action to safeguard the multilateral system — and set the foundations for its eventual revitalisation. “ Predictability and certainty are fundamental to cross-border commerce . We fully appreciate the US administration’s desire to secure a level playing field for international trade but remain deeply sceptical that a tariff escalation of this scale can deliver on that goal — multilateral solutions will ultimately be needed to resolve longstanding inefficiencies and inequities in the global trading system.”

< Back < Previous | Next > Global Insights Harmonised AI standards to reduce fragmented global rules 11 Jul 2025 This ICC policy paper highlights how divergent AI regulations across countries can lead to fragmented global markets and increased business costs. ICC calls for greater coordination on the development of international, market-driven AI standards, to bridge legal differences, reduce compliance burdens, improve market access and enhance cross-border innovation. Download How can international, market-driven AI standards reduce fragmented global AI governance for business? As AI systems become integral to business operations worldwide, fragmented governance approaches create significant challenges for companies of all sizes. When different jurisdictions develop their own AI policies, laws and regulations, businesses face: Increased compliance costs arising from navigating complex regulatory landscapes Market access barriers that limit where they can operate Innovation constraints that slow cross-border collaboration. These challenges are particularly acute for small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) which lack the resources to manage complex, jurisdiction-specific requirements. International, market-driven standards are consensus-based guidelines that define how technologies should perform, interact and remain safe. They provide practical guidance that works across multiple legal frameworks, essentially creating a common language for AI governance globally. Potential overlaps, duplications and divergences in AI standards Achieving internationally interoperable AI governance is significantly hindered by overlapping standardisation efforts, inconsistent terminology across different frameworks and limited awareness of existing AI standards. These issues contribute to market fragmentation and a complex regulatory landscapes, with regional or national bodies – sometimes even within the same country – issuing overlapping or even competing guidance. At the same time, the use of standards processes to advance specific policy agendas rather than technical excellence, creates standards that may not serve broader global or business needs. Without better coordination, these standardisation efforts risk adding complexity instead of reducing it, increasing compliance costs (which are especially burdensome for SMEs), and impeding cross-border collaboration and innovation. ICC recommendations: How can policymakers make AI standards work globally? Promote strategic alignment in AI standards-development to reflect market needs and avoid duplication. Ensure domestic and local expert participation in shaping market-driven standards. Prioritise global, industry-driven standards over national or regional-only approaches. Champion multistakeholder collaboration through transparent, inclusive processes. Leverage existing standards in regulation to streamline compliance and build trust. Use standards in public procurement to support adoption and open markets to SMEs. Support company participation with funding, incentives, and training. Enhance awareness and education to build capacity for implementing AI standards.

< Back < Previous | Next > Taxes Developments on the UN Framework Convention on International Tax Cooperation 27 May 2025 The ICC convened a timely briefing to update business stakeholders on the UN-led process to negotiate a new Framework Convention on International Tax Cooperation. This follows the landmark UN General Assembly resolution adopted in late 2023, which launched the first steps toward a globally negotiated, binding agreement on international tax governance. While this move signals a more inclusive and multilateral approach, especially in giving developing countries equal footing , it also introduces new uncertainties for businesses already adjusting to recent OECD tax reforms. The ICC emphasised that structured private sector engagement will be essential to ensure that the future convention remains coherent, predictable, and administrable. Key Developments The Ad Hoc Intergovernmental Committee has been established and will begin formal negotiations in the coming months. Business stakeholders are now able to register as observers of the sessions and are encouraged to submit technical input through ICC or national associations. The convention’s scope is broad, aiming to set global norms and principles rather than detailed rules - but its legal status could be binding. Many businesses expressed concern about potential regulatory fragmentation , especially if the new framework does not align with OECD's Pillar One and Pillar Two standards. The need for capacity building in developing countries was widely recognized, as inclusive participation requires not just access but also resources. The ICC reiterated that this new track does not render existing OECD efforts obsolete but rather opens a parallel process , one that risks adding complexity unless clear coordination mechanisms are established. Business leaders were urged to engage early and constructively to safeguard key principles like simplicity, neutrality, and predictability in global tax standards. Recommendations for Business Register to observe the UN tax negotiations and follow developments closely through the channels outlined by the UN. Coordinate input through ICC channels to avoid fragmented responses. Evaluate compliance exposure in anticipation of potentially overlapping global standards. Support efforts to promote coherence between UN and OECD frameworks. The ICC will continue to provide analysis, updates, and advocacy to ensure that the private sector's voice is heard throughout this evolving process. A formal position paper will follow once the first draft of the convention is released.

< Back < Previous | Next > Join the ICC Global Digital Trade Sandbox Laure Jacquier 3 Feb 2026 Digital trade is moving from ambition to execution. The ICC Global Digital Trade Sandbox offers companies a unique, vendor-neutral environment to test real digital trade processes, contribute to global pilots, and help shape the future of cross-border trade. ICC Global Digital Trade Sandbox From ambition to execution: join the ICC Global Digital Trade Sandbox Digitalisation is transforming international trade, but adoption remains uneven. While international standards, technologies and policy frameworks are advancing rapidly, many companies still struggle to move from awareness to practical implementation. Fragmentation, interoperability challenges and legal uncertainty continue to slow progress. To address this gap, ICC has launched the Global Digital Trade Sandbox , a flagship initiative starting in early 2026 that shifts the focus from advocacy to execution. This challenge is particularly visible in the Dutch context . Despite broad political and business support for digital trade, regulatory reform to fully enable the use of electronic trade documents, such as electronic bills of lading, has been repeatedly delayed . As a result, Dutch companies risk falling behind peers in jurisdictions that have already modernised their legal frameworks. Bridging the gap between policy and practice The Global Digital Trade Sandbox responds to a growing gap between what is technically possible and what is legally and operationally enabled . It provides companies with a structured, vendor-neutral environment to test digital trade processes in real-world conditions, without commercial or regulatory risk. Importantly, the Sandbox does not replace legal reform. Rather, it complements it by generating evidence from practice : what works, what does not, where interoperability breaks down, and which regulatory barriers have the greatest impact on business. For countries like the Netherlands, where legal reform is pending, this evidence is particularly valuable. What is the Digital Trade Sandbox? The Digital Trade Sandbox is not a technical platform and does not promote specific technologies. Instead, it is an ICC-led orchestration environment that brings together companies, banks, logistics providers and technology vendors to test digital trade workflows using existing systems and international standards, including ICC’s Key Trade Data & Documents Elements (KTDDE). Through guided pilots and proofs of concept, participants explore processes such as e-invoicing, electronic transport documents and digital trade documentation. The objective is to demonstrate interoperability, identify operational bottlenecks and support scalable adoption across borders. Why this matters for Dutch companies For Dutch companies engaged in international trade, the Sandbox offers a pragmatic way forward, even while regulatory reform is ongoing: Prepare ahead of regulation by testing digital trade processes before legal change is finalised Reduce uncertainty by identifying legal, operational and contractual barriers early Stay competitive internationally as other jurisdictions move faster on digital trade Contribute to reform by providing concrete business evidence to policymakers Participation allows companies to move from waiting to learning, and from learning to readiness. A global initiative with local anchoring The Sandbox operates through ICC’s global network, with National Committees acting as local convenors . ICC Netherlands supports Dutch companies in exploring participation, connecting them to global pilots and ensuring that Dutch business insights feed into international discussions. This local anchoring is essential. Without practical input from companies, regulatory reform risks remaining abstract, or misaligned with real trade flows. How to get involved Companies interested in participating can: Review the available Sandbox materials (hereunder) Join one of the information sessions on 10 February 7AM CET / 2PM SGT / 1AM NYT register here 2PM CET / 9PM SGT / 8AM NYT register here Contact ICC Netherlands to discuss suitability and next steps Participation in the Sandbox is free of charge for eligible ICC members. Moving forward, despite uncertainty Digital trade is no longer a future ambition. It is a strategic necessity, especially in a volatile geopolitical environment where efficiency, resilience and trust matter more than ever. While regulatory reform remains essential, waiting for it to be completed is not a strategy. The ICC Global Digital Trade Sandbox offers Dutch companies the opportunity to prepare, test and shape the future of digital trade: together, pragmatically and at global scale. Interested in joining or learning more? Please reach out to ICC Netherlands for further information - info@icc.nl 3. ICC DSI Digital Trade Sandbox Brief (1) .pdf Download PDF • 903KB

< Back < Previous | Next > Governance Guidance on Responsible Business in Challenging Contexts 25 Jul 2024 ICC has issued guidance to support businesses faced with challenging situations that cause stay-or-leave dilemmas, requiring crisis management and due diligence to identify, prevent and mitigate the impacts of company decisions on human rights, society and the conflict.  Why a guide on responsible business conduct? In situations of conflict, such as an armed conflict, a gross human rights violation, the imposition of trade sanctions, or a governance crisis, such as a coup d’état, businesses are expected to understand their role and the risks of business involvement in the conflict to respect international humanitarian law. When a crisis evolves, companies are under pressure from stakeholders to take prompt action, including deciding whether to remain in or exit the market, while sumultaneaously assessing the impacts on people, communities and society more broadly. These expectations can be daunting for companies, in particular, when they do not have the prerequisites or a developed strategy to act responsibly in these contexts. How does the guide on responsible business conduct support executives? By implementing this guidance and establishing an adapted tactical planning programme for high-risk countries of operation, a company can set a solid foundation for a crisis response. Companies can support their remain-or-exit resolutions with sound evidence-based due diligence, through engagement with stakeholders, with due consideration of the company’s responsibilities, and by applying creative leverage. Which steps can companies take to ensure responsible business conduct in challenging contexts? Ensure the safety of its workforce as a first priority Avoid rushing into a decision under pressure of circumstance or scrutiny Respect the human rights of affected stakeholders, including employees and workers in the supply chain and consumers and impacted communities Use their leverage to mitigate adverse human rights impacts Use collaborative platforms for shared assessments and responses to crises Guidance on Responsible Business in Challenging Contexts Download

Explore ICC's comprehensive business solutions designed to facilitate global trade. From ATA Carnets and Incoterms® to model contracts, certificates of origin, and digital trade tools, discover how ICC's standards and resources support businesses of all sizes and drive international commerce. How to meet international ESG requirements Understand how to meet environmental, social and governance (ESG) requirements from global regulators, investors, banks and buyers. Go to: Step 1: Understand how ESG factors apply to your business Step 2: Familiarise yourself with relevant ESG requirements Step 3: Compile the required information Step 4: Access sustainable finance Step 5: Improve your ESG performance As you enter new markets, you may face new regulations and disclosure requirements, especially relating to ESG. Step 1: Understand how ESG factors apply to your business ESG and sustainability is becoming essential for businesses worldwide, shaping how they operate and grow. Regulators, banks, investors, supply chain leaders and consumers expect businesses to take action to responsibly reduce their ESG impact and manage their risks. What does "ESG" stand for? Why is ESG important? What does ESG mean for your business? Step 2: Familiarise yourself with relevant ESG requirements There is a growing number of global regulations designed to reduce environmental and social impacts and risks. Even if your business is not directly covered under one of these regulations (yet), it is important to be aware of them, as the same requirements trickle down and affect your ability to access value chains and finance. If you’re a B2B company supplying to large organisations, they will likely need to collect data from their suppliers in order to comply themselves. And if you’re looking for finance, financial institutions may similarly need to collect this data from their investments. How do ESG requirements affect products and services? Step 3: Compile the required information It’s all about getting an understanding of your performance and collecting data to support that. Some can be collected easily from existing reports and invoices. Some may require further digging and requesting from suppliers, or even working with them over time to gather it. Where do you begin? Step 4: Access sustainable finance While many businesses cite cost as one of their largest barriers to implementing sustainability, there is a growing number of opportunities to access capital to support these initiatives. In fact, most financial institutions now offer green or sustainable finance options specifically for small- and medium-sized businesses. Being able to provide data on ESG practices and performance can get your business approved for this finance, often at reduced rates. What are key sources of finance? Step 5: Improve your ESG performance Now that you’ve collected your data and understand your performance, it’s time to take action! Based on the information you’ve gathered and feedback you may have received from stakeholders, you may already have an idea of any gaps where you can improve your performance. Remember, ESG progress can be made step by step, and sometimes even small changes can have a significant impact. How can you keep your sustainability goals on track? No matter the size of your business, every step you take toward sustainability helps your business thrive and supports a better future. Start small and grow your impact! Step 1 How to seize global trade opportunities Step 2 How to draft a contract Step 3 How to execute a business transaction Step 4 How to prevent and solve potential disputes in business Step 5 How to meet international ESG requirements Related pages How to seize global trade opportunities How to seize global trade opportunities How to draft a contract How to draft a contract How to execute a business transaction How to execute a business transaction

< Back < Previous | Next > Sustainability Business at the Table: ICC and the Private Sector at the SB62 Climate Talks 30 Jun 2025 At the June 2025 Bonn Climate Conference, business leaders led by the ICC called for urgent action to remove regulatory and financial barriers, scale up adaptation, and support high-integrity carbon markets. With COP30 nearing, they urged governments to align with 1.5°C goals and shift from talk to action, emphasizing that the private sector is ready but needs the right conditions. How business voices shaped the climate agenda in Bonn—and what’s next on the road to COP30 in Belém The June 2025 Bonn Climate Change Conference (SB62) marked a pivotal checkpoint on the road to COP30. With rising climate impacts, growing geopolitical tensions, and increasing scrutiny of implementation gaps, business and industry leaders—represented through the UNFCCC Business and Industry NGO constituency (BINGO)—played a visible and engaged role in the process. The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), as the leading global business representative, was at the heart of these efforts. Business Speaks Up at Opening and Closing Plenaries Rob Cameron, Chair of the ICC Environment Commission, delivered the BINGO opening statement, raising urgent concerns over delays in agenda adoption and calling for accelerated action across the climate agenda. “Ten years after Paris, COP30 must deliver—and it must do so for the real economy,” he emphasized. Four key points framed the private sector’s intervention: NDC Implementation: Businesses called on governments to translate Global Stocktake findings into ambitious, actionable Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) aligned with 1.5°C, with meaningful business engagement in their design and delivery. Adaptation: While mitigation remains critical, businesses urged for a robust framework to scale up private-sector-supported adaptation solutions. Finance: Echoing the Presidency’s USD 1.3 trillion roadmap, the private sector stressed that unlocking capital will require removing regulatory barriers and enhancing risk-sharing mechanisms. Carbon Markets: ICC strongly supported high-integrity carbon markets and rapid implementation of Article 6 as tools to drive finance to where it's most needed. At the closing plenary, the tone was cautiously optimistic. Delegates had worked constructively, but “significant divergences persist,” ICC noted. “Now is the time to transform promises made into real-world implementation,” the statement concluded. Financing Climate Action: Private Sector Ready—but Held Back During the Presidency-led consultation on the Baku to Belém Roadmap to 1.3 Trillion, ICC highlighted the urgent need to align financial frameworks with climate goals. As Beth Burks (S&P Global), speaking for BINGO, noted: “We fully recognize the role we play in reaching the USD 1.3 trillion goal—but the current system is holding us back.” ICC’s contribution to the discussion outlined three priority areas: Enabling Environments: Policy coherence and predictability—especially strong offtake markets and stable regulatory frameworks—are prerequisites for unlocking private investment in developing economies. Reforming Development Finance: Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) must become real catalysts for private finance by accepting greater risk and investing in project development capacity. Prudential Regulation Reform: Current banking regulations penalize climate investment in emerging markets. ICC proposed a structured dialogue with regulators to explore targeted reforms, estimating that such changes could quadruple available bank capital for climate projects. ICC has now published this paper, setting out concrete steps to realign financial regulation with climate ambition. Read it here. Just Transition: Making Climate Action Fair and Inclusive ICC and BINGO welcomed progress on the Just Transition Work Programme, while stressing that implementation must now take center stage. In its statement, business emphasized that a truly just transition must: Be holistic and inclusive, engaging governments, large companies, SMEs, and local innovators. Provide the most vulnerable communities with the tools, skills, and opportunities to thrive. Avoid unintended cross-border consequences, especially for SMEs in developing countries. Business urged policymakers to ensure predictability and coherence across policies, warning that fragmented or duplicative efforts could slow investment and innovation. “There is no silver bullet,” the ICC statement noted. “Efforts must be tailored to national and local realities to be truly effective.” Observer Engagement and Implementation Gaps ICC also weighed in on the Arrangements for Intergovernmental Meetings (AIM) discussions, advocating for more inclusive and efficient observer engagement. Suggestions included shifting some Action Agenda activities to Regional Climate Weeks and leveraging expert dialogues to integrate real-world insights into the process. “The Brazilian concept of Mutirão—working together for the common good—captures what is needed now,” said Agnes Vinblad, representing the United States Council for International Business. “No one actor can tackle the climate challenge alone. We must unite.” What’s Next? Belém Must Deliver for the Real Economy With COP30 in Belém just months away, ICC’s message is clear: it’s time to move from negotiation to implementation. This means: Delivering updated NDCs aligned with 1.5°C. Advancing robust frameworks on adaptation and just transition. Fixing regulatory and financial barriers to unlock private capital. Accelerating Article 6 implementation and voluntary carbon market integrity. ICC stands ready to support the COP Presidencies and Parties in translating words into action. As underscored in the closing statement: “Our shared climate ambitions demand collaborative solutions. The private sector is ready to do its part—but it cannot do it alone.”

< 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 Mirjam van de Hel-Koedoot NautaDutilh Arbitrator Biography Mirjam van de Hel – Koedoot heads NautaDutilh’s arbitration practice and specialises in international arbitration and arbitration-related court proceedings. Mirjam has extensive experience acting as counsel in commercial and investment treaty arbitrations under a variety of arbitration rules (including ICC, LCIA, UNCITRAL, ICSID and NAI Rules). She also regularly acts in complex and high-value court proceedings concerning the setting aside and enforcement of arbitral awards, especially relating to disputes involving bilateral and multilateral investment treaties. Mirjam is Chair of the Executive Board of the European Federation for Investment Law and Arbitration (EFILA) and a board member of the Dutch Arbitration Association (DAA). Contact Details Netherlands +31 20 71 71 623 Mirjam.vandeHel-Koedoot@nautadutilh.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 Commercial, Investment / Public International Law, Enforcement and Annulment of Arbitral Awards Bar Admission(s) Credentials CV