Institutional arbitration in Bangladesh is arbitration administered by a recognised arbitral institution — primarily the Bangladesh International Arbitration Centre (BIAC) or the Bangladesh Institute of Arbitration (BIArb). Institutional arbitration provides a structured, professionally administered framework for resolving commercial disputes, with established procedural rules, a panel of experienced arbitrators, and administrative support throughout the proceedings.
BIAC: Bangladesh International Arbitration Centre
BIAC is the leading arbitral institution in Bangladesh, established in 2011 as a joint initiative of the International Chamber of Commerce Bangladesh, the Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Industry Dhaka, and the Chittagong Chamber of Commerce and Industry. BIAC administers arbitrations under the BIAC Arbitration Rules and mediations under the BIAC Mediation Rules. It maintains a panel of experienced arbitrators and mediators and provides modern hearing facilities in Dhaka.
BIArb: Bangladesh Institute of Arbitration
BIArb is another recognised arbitral institution in Bangladesh, providing arbitration and mediation services under its own rules. BIArb also provides training and accreditation for arbitrators and mediators in Bangladesh.
International Institutional Options for Bangladesh Disputes
ICC (International Chamber of Commerce)
ICC arbitration is widely used in international contracts involving Bangladeshi parties, particularly in the energy, infrastructure, and financial sectors. ICC arbitration is administered from Paris and is known for its rigorous case management.
SIAC (Singapore International Arbitration Centre)
SIAC is a popular choice for disputes involving Bangladeshi and other Asian parties, given Singapore’s reputation as a neutral, efficient arbitration seat.
LCIA (London Court of International Arbitration)
LCIA arbitration is used in contracts governed by English law or involving parties from common law jurisdictions.
TRW Law Firm: Institutional Arbitration Services in Bangladesh
TRW Law Firm has extensive experience in institutional arbitration in Bangladesh, representing clients in BIAC, BIArb, ICC, SIAC, and LCIA arbitrations. Contact TRW at tahmidurrahman.com or visit tahmidur.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between BIAC and BIArb in Bangladesh?
Both BIAC and BIArb are recognised arbitral institutions in Bangladesh. BIAC is the larger and more internationally connected institution, with links to ICC, SIAC, and APRAG. BIArb also provides arbitration and mediation services and training for arbitrators and mediators.
Is institutional arbitration more expensive than ad hoc arbitration in Bangladesh?
Institutional arbitration is generally more expensive than ad hoc arbitration because of the institutional fees. However, institutional arbitration provides more administrative support and procedural safeguards, which can be valuable for complex disputes.
Can I choose any arbitral institution for a Bangladesh dispute?
Yes, subject to the agreement of the other party. The parties can choose any arbitral institution — BIAC, BIArb, ICC, SIAC, or LCIA — by including the appropriate institutional clause in their contract.
Related articles: Alternative Dispute Resolution in Bangladesh | Arbitration Lawyer in Bangladesh | Commercial Arbitration in Bangladesh
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Contact TRW Law Firm
If you need expert legal advice on this matter, contact TRW Law Firm — one of Bangladesh’s leading law firms specialising in ADR, arbitration, and commercial litigation. Visit tahmidurrahman.com or meheruba.com to speak with a specialist today.
