Arbitration & ADR Days in Albania
ARBITRATION AND ADR DAYS IN ALBANIA (AADA) From 25-28 April 2023, ICC Albania in cooperation with partners and supporters is organizing the Arbitration and ADR Days in Albania. AADA is an initiative that aims to bring together experts and interested parties in arbitration and ADR to discuss recent developments in the world, region, and in domestic market and how the work in these areas could be further intensified in
Training: Letters of Credit, Standby LCs and Demand Guarantees
ICC Albania is organizing a training session on trade finance instruments 4-5 May 2023. This training session has the ambitious goal of transferring operational skills on letters of credit, stand-by LC and demand guarantees, defining their characteristics and identifying the most peculiar aspects. Ample space will be dedicated to the analysis of the ICC rules. Finally, numerous practical cases will be analyzed to better understand the operation of the
Whitepaper: Participation and involvement of the business fora in the EU negotiation process
14 December 2022 The substantial involvement of the business fora in decision-making during membership negotiations is recognized as an element that enables a successful process. With the goal of encouraging further transparency and accountability in the public-private consultation process in Albania and specifically in the EU negotiations process, ICC Albania with the support of the Dutch Embassy in Albania has commissioned a study conducted by ACIT Center. This whitepaper
Pilot Study on social and governance practices of 50 companies in Albania released
1 December 2022 The pilot study, commissioned by ICC Albania, as part the MATRA Programme in the framework of the Project “Collective Actions to Promote Integrity”, highlights the current practices employed by 50 companies operating in Albania in the social and governance dimensions. The International Chamber of Commerce in Albania (ICC Albania) brings to the Albanian audience the first edition of the Corporate Governance Index 2022 report - A Pathway
COP27: Business review of carbon pricing regimes shows clear opportunities to boost decarbonisation efforts
10 November 2022 A major study of the functioning of five major carbon pricing systems has highlighted significant progress made in adopting market-based systems – while pointing to the need to further drive and optimise the design of such policies to accelerate emissions reductions and boost energy security. The report – launched today by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) at COP27 – draws on industry experience operating under carbon
COP27: New industry framework to measure sustainability of trade transactions
9 November 2022 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has published a pilot version of the first-ever industry framework to assess the sustainability performance of trade transactions. The “Wave 1” framework is the product of a year-long consultation with banks, corporates and technology providers — in partnership with Boston Consulting Group — based on the roadmap announced by ICC at the Glasgow climate summit. The new ICC framework sets out an agreed
ICC acts to encourage diversity in selection of arbitrators
3 November 2022 In the latest in a series of measures to improve diversity in arbitration, ICC has introduced standard language in its model letters to parties and co-arbitrators. The inclusion of new language in ICC model letters to parties, co-arbitrators, appointing authorities and ICC national committees is the latest measure taken by ICC to improve diversity in arbitration. The letters now feature language introduced on 1 January 2022 in
Renewed ICC Commission on Arbitration and ADR delegations and Steering Committee scores high on diversity
2 November 2022 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has announced the appointment of eight new Vice-Chairs to the ICC Commission on Arbitration and ADR, ICC’s leading think tank in international dispute resolution. At the 20th ICC Miami Conference on International Arbitration held on 29 October 2022, the ICC Commission on Arbitration and ADR gathered with a renewed membership and announced the new composition of its Steering Committee, following the appointment
This year’s COP27 matters more than ever, says ICC
27 October 2022 Ahead of next month’s 27th United Nations Climate Change conference in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has published an open letter underscoring the importance of a successful COP27 for business. With the future of international climate collaboration at stake, ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO has sent open letter to Environment Ministers and Heads of Delegations. In the letter, Mr Denton
Credit risk in trade, supply chain and export finance back to pre-pandemic levels, ICC confirms
19 October 2022 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), along with their partners Global Credit Data (GCD) and Boston Consulting Group (BCG), has released its 2022 Trade Register report, confirming that credit risk in trade, supply chain and export finance have fallen back to pre-pandemic levels. Following the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 on trade volumes, 2021 reaffirmed the resilience of global trade with a strong and better
ICC launches ICC Case Connect: Secure online case management made easy
12 October 2022 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has launched ICC Case Connect – a pioneering digital case management platform to connect parties, arbitral tribunals and the ICC Secretariat. From October 2022, users of ICC Arbitration are encouraged to file their requests for arbitration via ICC Case Connect and benefit from a secure, shared space for each new case. ICC Case Connect enables more streamlined communication and file-sharing among
No room for complacency, says IMB, as global piracy incidents hit lowest levels in decades
12 October 2022 The ICC International Maritime Bureau (IMB) is calling for regional and international players to sustain their efforts, particularly in the Gulf of Guinea, as global piracy and armed robbery incidents reach their lowest levels since 1992. ICC IMB’s latest global piracy report details 90 incidents of piracy and armed robbery against ships in the first nine months of 2022, the lowest recorded figure in three decades. Perpetrators
ICC launches call for businesses to pilot new sustainability framework for trade transactions in textiles sector
6 October 2022 A month ahead of the start of this year’s United Nations climate summit (“COP27”), the International Chamber of Commerce has launched a call to banks, corporates and technology companies to participate in piloting a ground-breaking framework to grade the sustainability profile of individual trade transactions. Following an extensive global consultation exercise earlier this year on the initial recommendations set out in ICC’s white paper on “Standards for
Business leaders and policymakers gather for a more sustainable world tax order
26 July 2022 The International Tax Conference jointly hosted by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), [email protected] and BusinessEurope last week highlighted how a consistent global tax system is essential for business and will foster cross-border trade and investment. Under the theme “Towards a Sustainable World Tax Order?”, the International Tax Conference, held last week in Munich, Germany (21-22 July), gathered business leaders and policymakers from around the world over two
Black Sea grain exports deal must enable full agricultural value chain, ICC says
22 July 2022 ICC has issued a statement following the signature of a deal to allow the resumption of grain exports via the Black Sea. ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO said: “The strategic importance of today’s agreement for global food security cannot be overstated. Projections from our network suggest that restoring shipments of Ukrainian grains and vegetable oils via the Black Sea is absolutely imperative to avert a
ICC forum for young arbitrators changes name to reflect broad dispute resolution scope
20 July 2022 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Young Arbitrators Forum (YAF) has changed its name to the Young Arbitration and ADR Forum (YAAF) to underscore the global network’s wide range of alternative dispute resolution services. Under the auspices of ICC’s market-leading Dispute Resolution Services, ICC YAAF dedicates its work to the promotion of all methods of effective dispute resolution and dispute prevention and avoidance, by introducing new practitioners and students
ICC brings the voice of business to global discussions on innovation and intellectual property
19 July 2022 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) held a side event at the 63rd Meetings of the Assemblies of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) in Geneva this week, bringing the voice of business to global discussions on innovation and intellectual property. Leaders from companies including Nestlé, Microsoft and Intel, and international organisations including the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and the World Trade Organization (WTO) were among
Global piracy and armed robbery incidents at lowest level in decades
12 July 2022 The ICC International Maritime Bureau (IMB) received the lowest number of reported incidents for the first half of any year since 1994 – a testament to its pivotal role in raising awareness to make waters safer. IMB’s latest global piracy report details 58 incidents of piracy and armed robbery against ships – the lowest total since 1994 – down from 68 incidents during the same period last
Small business competition puts MSMEs at the heart of the green transition
28 June 2022 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has joined the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the International Trade Centre (ITC) to launch the second edition of the Small Business Champions Initiative. The second edition of the Small Business Champions Initiative was launched at a joint event hosted by ICC, ITC and the WTO Informal Working Group on Micro-, Small- and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs). The aim of the initiative
New fundraising campaign to support WFP’s food assistance to the people of Ukraine
21 June 2022 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) is proud to announce the launch of a campaign on World Food Programme’s (WFP) crowdfunding platform ShareTheMeal to provide food assistance to the people of Ukraine. Following a recent visit to Ukraine by ICC Secretary General, John W.H. Denton AO, and the anniversary of a strategic partnership signed between ICC and WFP, the fundraising appeal aims to support WFP’s response strategy
US and Italian chambers join ICC Certificate of Origin Accreditation Chain
21 June 2022 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) is delighted to welcome five chambers from the United States and Italy to the International Certificate of Origin (CO) Accreditation Chain. By joining the ICC CO Accreditation Chain, the United States’ Birmingham Business Alliance, Greater Miami Chamber, Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and American Export Chamber, and Italy’s Chamber of Commerce of Maremma and Tirreno will benefit from the use of
ICC welcomes WTO’s responsiveness to business needs
17 June 2022 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) welcomes the “Geneva Package” that world trade ministers agreed to at the World Trade Organization (WTO) today and applauds the leadership of WTO Director-General Dr Ngozi-Okonjo-Iweala for shepherding a significant package of deals. Today’s agreement is a significant boost for international cooperation, global trade and cross-border commerce, with many of the outcomes corresponding with what ICC has been consistently calling for over the past
Mexican businesswoman Maria Fernanda Garza elected as new ICC Chair
15 June 2022 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) is delighted to welcome Maria Fernanda Garza as its new Chair. After serving as ICC First Vice-Chair for the past two years, the small business owner from Mexico succeeds Ajay Banga as ICC Chair, making her the first woman to hold this position. Maria Fernanda Garza has been elected ICC Chair for a period of two years following a meeting of
ICC unveils new look to reflect contemporary relevance and role
14 June 2022 ICC has launched a new brand identity reflecting the global institution’s strategic direction and mission to make business work for everyone, every day, everywhere. The rebrand incorporates a modern and elegant logo emphasising ICC’s global reach as the institutional representative of over 45 million companies in over 170 countries. The logo features a bold ICC monograph from longitude lines. A brighter blue, and confident, approachable typographic voice
ICC outlines global business priorities for MC12
14 June 2022 As negotiations continue at the World Trade Organization (WTO) Ministerial Conference (MC12), the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has released a statement on global business priorities outlining seven key recommendations for action. The global business community views the WTO as an essential pillar in the multilateral trading system. As end-users of the system, the global private sector strongly encourages ministers to work towards ambitious outcomes that will
New Centre to make Seville the “entrepreneurship capital” of Southern Europe
7 June 2022 ICC has launched a new Centre of Entrepreneurship in Seville, Spain, to support and mobilise the next generation of entrepreneurs in Southern Europe. The Seville hub of the ICC Centre of Entrepreneurship was officially launched today during an event held at Seville Chamber of Commerce, attended by over 100 Spanish leaders and representatives of regional chambers of commerce. Following the establishment of hubs in Accra, Beirut, Buenos Aires, Casablanca,
ICC celebrates over 50 years of engagement in UN environment discussion
2 June 2022 Currently underway in the Swedish capital, Stockholm+50 commemorates the 50th anniversary of the United Nations (UN) Conference on the Human Environment, held in 1972 – which made the environment a pressing global issue for the first time. Aiming to drive action towards a healthy planet for the prosperity of all, the meeting brings leaders and representatives from governments, businesses, international organisations, civil society and youth together. Amid
Endorsement puts Nicolas Uribe on road to become WCF Chair
25 May 2022 ICC’s World Chambers Federation has announced the election of Nicolas Uribe, President of the Bogota Chamber of Commerce and Chair of ICC Colombia for formal ratification as WCF Chair by the ICC World Council when it meets in June. Marie-Christine Oghly, Vice-Chair in charge of International Affairs at the Paris Region Chamber of Commerce and Industry, will become WCF Deputy Chair. The announcement was made during a
Two new digital trade services launched in the origin area
25 May 2022 With a new online certifying tool and a revamped Certificate of Origin (CO) verification website, the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) is expanding and modernising its catalogue of digital trade services offered in the origin area. A new online tool for smoother customs checks ICC World Chambers Federation is proud to announce the launch of its new online certifying tool, Genesis. Set to last until the end of
Governing body additions set to strengthen ICC Dispute Resolution Services
20 May 2022 Updates to the Governing Body of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Dispute Resolution Services, announced today, aim to further strengthen ICC’s strategic leadership on dispute resolution. Mohamed S. Abdel Wahab (Egypt) has been elected Vice-Chair of the ICC Dispute Resolution Services Governing Body. A professor of private international law and English contract law at Cairo University, Mr Abdel Wahab is founding partner and Head of International Arbitration,
Guest blog: Crackdown on cartels, do fines tell the full story?
17 May 2022 The ICC/IBA Pre-International Competition Network Forum, which took place earlier this month, focused on the digital technology sector, cartels and private information, and merger control. Tasneem Azad, Managing Director, Expert Services at Kroll, and Marzena Meeson, Director, Expert Services at Kroll, explore what the sharp increase in global cartel fines means for the crackdown on cartels. Global cartel fines stood at $4.6 billion (bn) in 2021, up
New partnership to bolster inclusivity and diversity in the workplace
16 May 2022 ICC World Business Pride has joined forces with the Open for Business coalition to advocate for a more inclusive and diverse workplace as a driver of creativity, innovation and economic growth. In line with ICC’s commitment to a fairer, safer and more inclusive world, ICC World Business Pride (WBP) is proud to announce a ground-breaking new partnership with Open for Business, a coalition of leading global companies dedicated to
ICC reaches major arbitration milestone with 27,000th case
6 May 2022 The International Court of Arbitration of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC Court) has registered its 27,000th case, having announced record arbitration figures for 2021 earlier this year. The registered dispute is between parties from Africa active in the energy sector and will be administered by the ICC Court Secretariat out of Paris. ICC is the most preferred arbitral institution both worldwide, but also in Africa according
Why you should submit your thesis for the ICC Institute Prize
4 May 2022 You are writing a doctoral dissertation or long essay of at least 150 pages about international commercial law? Share your work for a chance to win the 2023 ICC Institute Prize… and €10,000. The competition is open to anyone aged 40 years of age or under. All works competing should be a minimum of 150 pages in length, drafted in English or French, unpublished and completed less
ICC welcomes new principles for the future of Internet and calls for global cooperation
28 April 2022 Following the launch of the Declaration for the Future of the Internet at the White House today, the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has issued the following statement welcoming the new principles and calling for effective global multilateral cooperation. “An open, stable and trusted Internet that is global and interoperable is vital for business operations worldwide and a prerequisite to the effective functioning of public services such
New partnership forged to make the digital economy work for all
26 April 2022 The UNCTAD-led eTrade for all initiative marks a new milestone with the enrolment of the International Chamber of Commerce as its principal private-sector counterpart. A new strategic partnership between the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and the eTrade for all initiative seeks to strengthen efforts towards more inclusive development outcomes from the digital economy. The partnership was announced on 25 April during the UNCTAD eCommerce Week held in Geneva and online,
4 ways ICC is mobilising business to save lives and livelihoods in Ukraine
19 April 2022 As the institutional representative of more than 45 million companies in over 100 countries, the International Chamber of Commerce has taken a leading role in advocating for business action in response to the war in Ukraine. Since the conflict’s onset, ICC has mobilised its global network and built historic collaborations with strategic partners to protect lives and livelihoods, support humanitarian efforts and promote business continuity and economic
ICC welcomes new Centre for Digital Trade and Innovation
8 April 2022 ICC has welcomed the launch of a new Centre for Digital Trade and Innovation by ICC United Kingdom, in response to the government’s ambition for the UK to have an open trading system with the rest of the world. In 2020, ICC launched the Digital Standards Initiative (DSI) in partnership with the Asian Development Bank and the Government of Singapore, to establish a globally harmonised, digitalised trade environment, in
New Global Task Force on Refugee Labour Mobility launches
7 April 2022 ICC has joined forces with the Canadian and Australian governments, the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR), the International Organization for Migration (IOM), Fragomen, Talent Beyond Boundaries, and RefugePoint to launch the Global Task Force on Refugee Labour Mobility with the aim of encouraging and supporting the adoption of labour complementary pathways for refugees. The Global Task Force on Refugee Labour Mobility is a new, multi-sectoral and multistakeholder initiative to
ICC responds to WTO slashed outlook for global trade
1 April 2022 Following reports that the World Trade Organization is to cut the outlook for trade growth in 2022 by half, ICC has issued the following statement. ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO said: “The WTO’s anticipated projections are very much in line with the systemic disruption to trade that we’re seeing throughout our global business network. At a micro-level this means yet more production outages, fewer jobs
ICC and FAO join forces to eradicate world hunger
30 March 2022 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen their partnership and boost public-private collaboration. Signed by ICC Secretary-General John W.H. Denton AO and FAO Director-General QU Dongyu, the MoU aims to promote responsible investments in line with countries’ priorities, enhance communications and public-private collaboration, and facilitate knowledge-sharing. It will
New recommendation calls for inclusion of multi systems for proof of origin in FTAs
21 March 2022 A new paper from the ICC World Chambers Federation Certificate of Origin Council calls on all economies negotiating Preferential Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) to ensure that the Rules of Origin Chapter provisions include an equivalent multi system. The measure would allow traders to choose between third party certified origin and self-declared origin statement methods when satisfying their preferential origin data. The ICC WCF CO Council Recommendation –
ICC and OECD strengthen cooperation
18 March 2022 ICC and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen cooperation in areas of mutual interest in order to promote sustainable economic growth, revive global trade and advance the transition to a green economy. The two organisations already have a long history of cooperation across a variety of policy areas and initiatives, ranging from ICC’s input to the
ICC and WTO launch first-ever standards toolkit for paperless trade
15 March 2022 The International Chamber of Commerce and the World Trade Organization have today published the first-ever toolkit to help companies and government agencies adopt available standards to accelerate the digitalisation of trade processes. Drawing on stakeholder consultations through ICC’s Digital Standards Initiative over the past year, the report emphasises that one of the primary barriers to the adoption of paperless processes is a lack of awareness of existing
ICC Whistleblowing Guidelines to scale up business integrity
25 February 2022 ICC has unveiled the newest contribution to its tools to help business stamp out corruption: the 2022 edition of the ICC Whistleblowing Guidelines. Providing practical guidance to help enterprises establish and implement a Whistleblowing Management System, the guidelines are an update of the ICC Guidelines on Whistleblowing published in 2008, incorporating current experience and practice of ICC member enterprises across a wide range of sectors and jurisdictions
ICC CoE and WIPO IP for Business join forces to empower innovation in entrepreneurship
24 February 2022 The ICC Centre of Entrepreneurship (CoE) and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) have announced a partnership to help entrepreneurs navigate intellectual property (IP) regulation and better manage their intangible assets. The partnership includes work to promote an IP self-assessment tool and to host workshops and seminars to train entrepreneurs on how to manage their creative assets, the results of their research and development, and their brands
ICC statement on Russia–Ukraine conflict
24 February 2022 Following the Russian incursion into Ukraine on 24 February, ICC has issued the following statement on behalf of the global business community. ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO said: “As an organisation founded to promote peace and prosperity by advancing international trade and the rule of law, we condemn Russia’s breach of international law in the strongest possible terms. We call on Russia to immediately cease
ICC launches new report reflecting how tech is changing the face of arbitration
18 February 2022 ICC has launched a new report to aid tribunals, arbitrators, counsel, and parties in leveraging technology for fair, effective, and efficient international arbitration proceedings. As a response to COVID-19, today’s business landscape is being reshaped by technological acceleration, making it essential that the arbitration community assess how they can best utilize digital tools and solutions to meet today’s challenges and future demands on dispute resolution. Seeing this
Future International Trade Alliance launched
15 February 2022 ICC, DCSA, BIMCO, FIATA and SWIFT have launched the Future International Trade Alliance and signed a memorandum of understanding to standardise digitalisation of international trade. Together, the industry associations will collaborate on the development and adoption of relevant standards to facilitate the use of electronic bills of lading. Established to further digitalisation of container shipping technology standards, Digital Container Shipping Association (DCSA) – a neutral, non-profit group
ICC amicus curiae brief to provide guidance to the US Supreme Court
31 January 2022 ICC has submitted an amicus curiae brief to provide guidance to the United States Supreme Court regarding a decision it will take that may lead to policy and practical implications on the conduct of international arbitrations worldwide. The brief is jointly submitted by ICC and the United States Council for International Business (USCIB), which operates ICC’s national committee in the United States (ICC USA). On 10 December
How certificates of origin stimulate global trade
28 January 2022 This week, we’re taking a look at how certificates of origin are used to support the movement of goods across borders with a success story in the Asia-Pacific. As the global trade environment becomes more complicated and new rules and regulations emerge, the role of customs is becoming critical. By verifying compliance with origin-related requirements, customs authorities can protect against the diversion or transhipments of shipments that may pose
ICC unveils preliminary dispute resolution figures for 2021
26 January 2022 Preliminary 2021 statistics released today by ICC Dispute Resolution Services reveal a great demand for ICC Arbitration and ADR as well as a steep rise of amounts in dispute in new cases. In 2021, the Secretariat of the ICC International Court of Arbitration registered 853 new cases in total, comprising 840 cases filed under the ICC Arbitration Rules and 13 under the Rules of ICC as Appointing Authority. The number
Business applauds G7 Digital Trade Principles on free flow of data with trust
11 January 2022 In this guest post, Carolyn Nguyen, Jakob Greiner and Makoto Yokozawa underscore how establishing trust and minimising disruptions in data flows are fundamental to reaping the benefits of digitalisation. “To harness the opportunities of the digital economy and support the trade of goods and services, data should be able to flow freely across borders with trust, including the trust of individuals and businesses,” opens the Data free flow
Business calls for immediate and definite action on cybersecurity
6 January 2022 In this guest blog, Rene Summer, Lead of the ICC Global Digital Economy Commission Working Group on Cybersecurity underscores the private sector call on governments to make cybersecurity everyone’s business saying there is no time to wait. On 17 December, the United Nations Open-Ended Working Group on security of and in the use of Information anc communication technologies (ICTs) wrapped up the first substantive meeting of its
ICC Dispute Resolution in 2021: Our year in review
20 December 2021 We’re wrapping up another ground-breaking year in dispute resolution with a look back at our key achievements – from being named the world’s preferred arbitral institution to taking new diversity and inclusion initiatives. 1. Receiving record Arbitration and ADR case filings In January, ICC announced record case filings for its arbitration and ADR services, recording a total of 946 new arbitration cases in 2020. Revised ICC Rules
ICC forms Legal Reform Advisory Board to support digital standards initiative
15 December 2021 ICC has today announced the formation of a new Legal Reform Advisory Board (LRAB) to support the legal harmonisation efforts of the ICC Digital Standards Initiative. As part of our drive to promote inclusion and create opportunity for all parties involved in the international supply chain, the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) launched the Digital Standards Initiative (DSI) in 2020 in partnership with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and
Trade rules slowing transition to circular economy, says ICC report
14 December 2021 A major independent report published today by ICC spotlights the need for a significant overhaul of global trade rules if governments are to meet their stated aim of accelerating the adoption of circular business models. A major independent report published today by ICC spotlights the need for a significant overhaul of global trade rules if governments are to meet their stated aim of accelerating the adoption of
ICC issues new guidance on environmental claims in marketing and advertising
6 December 2021 ICC has published updated guidance for responsible environmental marketing communications to help marketers and advertisers make truthful and useful environmental claims. As consumers become more interested in the environmental footprint of the products they buy, the updated ICC Framework for Responsible Environmental Marketing Communications (the “ICC Framework”) helps marketers evaluate environmental communications to maintain consumer confidence in these claims. The ICC Framework helps marketers craft environmental messages
World Chambers Competition names 2021 chamber champions
25 November 2021 ICC crowned four chamber champions as winners of the 2021 World Chambers Competition, the only awards ceremony of its kind to recognise innovative projects undertaken by chambers from around the world. Held in conjunction with the 12th World Chambers Congress, the World Chambers Competition has served as a platform to inspire the creation of pioneering and beneficial chamber solutions for business communities worldwide since its inception in
Global business unites in call to keep the Internet free of tariffs
23 November 2021 ICC has today joined a global coalition of industry associations in urging members of the World Trade Organization to keep the Internet free of tariffs ahead of the 12th WTO Ministerial Conference (MC12). Supported by 73 industry associations active across six continents, the Global Industry Statement on the WTO Moratorium on Customs Duties on Electronic Transmissions urges WTO Members to renew the Moratorium until the 13th Ministerial Conference. The statement
New roadmap published to reconceive global trade finance for a more sustainable and inclusive global economy
18 November 2021 ICC, in collaboration with Fung Business Intelligence and supported by McKinsey & Company, has today launched a report outlining a new vision for the global trade finance ecosystem. The report is based on a year-long effort by the ICC Advisory Group on Trade Finance to raise awareness and address the challenges facing micro-, small- and medium-sized enterprises (MSME), particularly in the emerging markets, in accessing the trade
Making business work in 2021
17 December 2021 We’re concluding our year with a round-up of key achievements on behalf of 45 million businesses in over 100 countries. From helping businesses weather the COVID-19 crisis to preparing a resilient rebuild, we’ve had a busy year making business work for everyone, every day, everywhere. From leveraging our real economy expertise to drive an effective response to enabling greater inclusion in the global trading system, here are 6 ways we’ve worked to enable peace, prosperity and opportunity for
ICC welcomes progress on e-commerce at the WTO
14 December 2021 ICC has welcomed a statement made today by the Trade Ministers of Australia, Japan and Singapore announcing significant progress in the ongoing e-commerce negotiations within the World Trade Organization. The statement notes that ‘good convergence’ has been achieved on eight issues — specifically: online consumer protection; electronic signatures and authentication; unsolicited commercial electronic messages; open government data; electronic contracts; transparency; paperless trading; and open internet access. The
ICC opens consultation on draft global standards for Sustainable Trade and Trade Finance
10 November 2021 ICC has published a major report setting out proposals to tackle the longstanding challenge of defining and setting common standards for sustainable trade and associated financing. The paper – developed in partnership with the Boston Consulting Group through a global consultation exercise involving over 200 banks and corporates – outlines the first-ever standardised framework and assessment methodology to qualify the sustainability profile of trade transactions. Unlike other
Guest blog: Gender diversity in arbitral tribunals – The challenges ahead
9 December 2021 Diversity is a complex and intersectional issue, and while incremental progress has been made, much remains to be done. With next week’s ICC Miami Conference on International Arbitration just around the corner, Christian Albanesi, Mateo Noseda Zorrilla de San Martín, Charlene Warner and Somin Lee of Linklaters take the opportunity to reflect upon the progress achieved so far and the challenges still to come. The Equal Representation
ICC BASIS calls on global leaders at IGF 2021: Keep the Internet whole!
31 October 2021 ICC is set to represent the experiences and perspectives of its global network for the 16th year running, at the 2021 Internet Governance Forum, taking place online and in Katowice, Poland, on 6-10 December. As the premier United Nations forum for the discussion of issues related to governance of the Internet, the IGF remains the most important international forum for the private sector to engage with other
SME360X – The new tool to measure your ESG performance
Why Measure Impact on Nature? Every small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) has an impact – both positive and negative – on nature and the environment. Measuring that impact enables SMEs to: Gain a competitive advantage Manage business risk Grow their business brand Enhance access to capital and affordable insurance Improve efficiency and reduce costs This is where SME360X can help. What is SME360X? SME360X is a SaaS (Software as a Service)
Boosting export finance for climate action
22 September 2021 ICC white paper identifies roadmap to boost the sustainability profile of US$700 billion export finance market. ICC has today released a white paper on the state of sustainability in the export finance industry at a major event during United Nations General Assembly week. Published with the support of the Rockefeller Foundation and following extensive consultation with the global export finance community, the white paper is the first
Bilgen Aldan, CEO of ALBtelecom becomes Chairwoman of ICC Albania
15 September 2021 ICC Albania General Assembly elects Bilgen Aldan, CEO of ALBtelecom as Chairwoman Bilgen Aldan, CEO of ALBtelecom Albania becomes Chairwoman of ICC Albania ?Bilgen Aldan was officially elected yesterday as the new Chair of ICC Albania during the General Assembly meeting. Ms. Aldan marks a milestone for ICC Albania by becoming the first woman to Chair the organization. Ms. Aldan will begin her three-year term as Chairwoman on the
Piracy and armed robbery incidents at lowest level in decades, but IMB cautions against complacency
14 October 2021 The ICC International Maritime Bureau (IMB) has reported the lowest number of reported piracy and armed robbery incidents for the first nine months of any year since 1994. IMB’s latest global piracy report recorded 97 incidents of piracy and armed robbery for the first nine months of 2021 – the lowest level of reported incidents since 1994. In 2021, IMB’s Piracy Reporting Centre (PRC) reported 85 vessels
ICC announces major virtual forum for business at COP 26
7 September 2021 ICC has announced plans to convene a major virtual conference on the margins of COP26. The ICC Make Climate Action Everyone’s Business Forum – which will be held from 1-13 November 2021 – will bring together a diverse network of over 10,000 participants from the public and private sectors to align their climate ambitions and actions for the next decade. Accenture and Deutsche Bank join ICC in this endeavour as
2021 World Chambers Competition finalists announced
2 September 2021 ICC and its World Chambers Federation (WCF) have announced finalists of the 2021 World Chambers Competition. The 16 shortlisted chambers will present their pioneering initiatives during the 12th World Chambers Congress, which is set to take place in Dubai from 23-25 November. The World Chambers Competition is the only global awards programme to identify and reward the most innovative, entrepreneurial solutions of chambers to today’s most pressing global challenges.
ICC announces formation of new Industry Advisory Board (IAB) to support the Digital Standards Initiative
20 August 2021 ICC has today announced the formation of a new Industry Advisory Board (IAB) to support the growing mandate of the ICC Digital Standards Initiative (DSI). Gerard Hartsink has been appointed Chair of the Board. As part of our drive to promote inclusion and create opportunity for all parties involved in the international supply chain, the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) launched the Digital Standards Initiative (DSI) in
Client mindset takes centre stage under new ICC Court President Claudia Salomon
12 August 2021 Claudia Salomon made history on 1 July 2021 becoming the first female President of the ICC International Court of Arbitration, the world’s foremost international arbitral institution. Ms Salomon spoke to Barry Fletcher, Head of Arbitration at LexisNexis® UK, about her first weeks in the role, her commitment to diversity and inclusion, and how she intends to build on the successes of her predecessor to ensure a client-focused
Code red warning from IPCC must translate into policy action, warns global business
9 August 2021 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has issued the following statement following the publication of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s latest report on climate science. ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton said: “Today’s ‘code red’ warning from the IPCC won’t come as any surprise to businesses affected by the extreme weather events of recent months. A crucial decade clearly lies ahead if we are to avert
ICC announces new YAF regional representatives for 2021
5 August 2021 The ICC Young Arbitrators Forum has named 89 new regional representatives for its 2021-2023 mandate, including appointments in 16 previously unrepresented countries and a newly established chapter for Africa. The Young Arbitrators Forum (YAF), the world’s largest network of its kind, is the International Chamber of Commerce’s young practitioners’ community dedicated to dispute resolution. Representatives are elected for a two-year mandate and responsible for the promotion of ICC’s
2020 ICC Dispute Resolution Statistics published
3 August 2021 ICC has published full dispute resolution statistics for 2020, following preliminary figures published earlier this year which revealed the highest number of registered cases with both the ICC International Court of Arbitration and the ICC International Centre for ADR. The 2020 ICC Dispute Resolution Statistics report includes a comprehensive overview of ICC Arbitration statistics including breakdowns by region, the constitution of the arbitral tribunals, figures for state
ICC Trading Thoughts with Damien Bruckard
30 July 2021 ICC sits down with Damien Bruckard, Deputy Director of ICC Trade and Investment, to discuss the organization's response to economic developments created by the COVID-19 pandemic. Few global supply chains have been spared from the wrath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Public lockdowns, export restrictions, and protectionist measures have pushed the global economy to the brink. Damien Bruckard, Deputy Director of ICC Trade and Investment, discusses ICC’s response to
New Steering Committee appointed to lead ICC Banking Commission
27 July 2021 ICC has today announced a number of new appointments to lead the work of its Banking Commission – the leading standard-setting body for international trade finance transactions. Lynn Ng of ING becomes new Commission Chair. As part of a number of changes implemented by ICC to strengthen the institutions’ work in this domain, the new leadership of the Commission will consist of a single Steering Committee comprising
ICC is preparing the next generation of innovators to thrive
15 July 2021 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) is providing young people with the required tools and resources to succeed in the global economy of the future. Over the past year, the COVID-19 pandemic has upended the lives of young people everywhere. From school closures to fewer employment opportunities – young people have directly suffered from many of the worst consequences of the pandemic. In the face of these
ICC calls on trade ministers to reach fisheries deal at WTO
13 July 2021 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has published an open letter to trade ministers ahead of the upcoming World Trade Organization (WTO) negotiations on fisheries subsidies. The letter – authored by ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton – calls upon trade ministers to finalise a fisheries agreement ahead of Thursday’s meeting at the WTO. In the letter, Mr Denton writes, “The global business community considers a rapid conclusion
ICC Centre of Entrepreneurship continues global expansion, adds Executive Coordinator
13 July 2021 In recent months, the ICC Centre of Entrepreneurship has expanded its operations by hiring an executive coordinator and releasing a community workshop report. Over the past year, ICC has launched the first two hubs of the ICC Centre of Entrepreneurship to provide specialised training, mentoring, and support services to help entrepreneurs establish, fund, manage, and expand their start-ups. The first regional ICC Centre of Entrepreneurship was launched in Istanbul
Piracy and armed robbery incidents at lowest level in 27 years, but risks remain to seafarers, IMB cautions
12 July 2021 The ICC International Maritime Bureau (IMB) received the lowest number of reported incidents for the first half of any year since 1994. IMB’s latest global piracy report details 68 incidents of piracy and armed robbery against ships – the lowest total since 1994 – down from 98 incidents during the same period last year. In the first six months of 2021, IMB’s Piracy Reporting Centre (PRC) reported
ICC welcomes G20’s endorsement of global tax framework
10 July 2021 ICC has welcomed the decision taken by G20 Finance Minister’s to endorse the preliminary agreement by the OECD Inclusive Framework to modernize the global taxation system — but cautions that coordinated implementation of the agreement will be vital to avoid placing unnecessary burdens on cross-border trade and investment. ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO said: “The fundamental architecture and parameters of the agreement reached through the OECD
Global action plan to enable a post-pandemic recovery “urgently needed”, warns ICC
7 July 2021 ICC has issued a warning that the world’s richest economies risk imposing major costs to the global economy absent of a step-change in their approach to managing the Covid-19 pandemic. In a statement issued ahead of this week’s meeting of G20 Finance Ministers, ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO said: “The finance ministers of the world’s richest economies are taking a huge gamble with their domestic
ICC Court issues call for disability task force candidates
7 July 2021 The International Chamber of Commerce has launched a global call for interested candidates to participate in a newly created Task Force on Disability Inclusion and International Arbitration, formed under the ICC Commission on Arbitration and ADR. The call for expressions of interest to ICC’s wider network is the first measure undertaken by Claudia Salomon, just one week into her term as President of the ICC International Court
ICC wins Best Development in International Arbitration Award
2 July 2021 Claudia Salomon’s election as the first woman President of the ICC Court has won an award for the best development in international arbitration. The Global Arbitration Review award was presented last night during a virtual Awards ceremony, which brought together practitioners from around the world. In a recorded acceptance speech, Ms Salomon said she was truly honoured to have been selected as the new President of the
Claudia Salomon becomes President of ICC Court
1 July 2021 Claudia Salomon has begun her term as President of the ICC International Court of Arbitration following formal election in June. Ms Salomon, who takes the reins from former ICC Court President Alexis Mourre, was formally elected on 11 June by ICC’s supreme governing body, the World Council. Ms Salomon is supported in her role by the ICC Court, comprising 195 members from 121 countries and including 17
9 ways Alexis Mourre advanced the ICC Court
30 June 2021 Alexis Mourre, President of the ICC International Court of Arbitration, concludes a six-year term leading the world’s preferred arbitral institute on 30 June. Having been an ICC Court member for 12 years, first as Vice-President and then as President, Mr Mourre has expressed a desire to return fully to private practice. Before wishing him farewell, we’re celebrating just nine ICC Court achievements made under his leadership. Achieving record
Extra Session: Arbitration Campaign
29 June - 2 July 2021 This week we are sharing a few more articles and interviews from our experts! The development of arbitration in the Western Balkans countries, the impact of public policy in the recognition and enforcement of the arbitral awards and an interview with newly elected Albanian member at the ICC Court of Arbitration and an overview on the arbitration policies in Albania. 29 June: The development
ICC, WTO, and ITC launch Digital Champions for Small Business competition
25 June 2021 ICC joined the World Trade Organization (WTO) and International Trade Centre (ITC) today to launch the Digital Champions for Small Business initative. The “Digital Champions for Small Business ” initiative was launched today at a joint event hosted by the WTO Informal Working Group on Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs), the International Trade Centre (ITC) and the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC). The aim of the
ICC submits amicus curiae brief to US Supreme Court
25 June 2021 The ICC International Court of Arbitration has submitted an amicus curiae brief to provide guidance to the Supreme Court of the United States regarding a decision it will take that may lead to policy and practical implications on the conduct of international arbitrations worldwide. On 22 March 2021, the Supreme Court of the United States agreed to hear Servotronics, Inc. v. Rolls-Royce PLC, et al., No. 20-794.
Incoterms® 2020 app gets makeover to enable traders worldwide
22 June 2021 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) – the guardians and creators of the Incoterms® rules – has revamped its Incoterms® 2020 mobile app, making it more convenient and useful than ever. Download the Incoterms® 2020 app today. The Incoterms® rules, the international language of traders worldwide, are the gold standard when it comes to B2B trade in goods across borders and domestically. They are essential for creating
”Monday Arbitration Day” Campaign (7/7)
21 June 2021 The seventh session of the ”Monday Arbitration Day” Campaign will focus on the recognition and enforcement of arbitral awards. In the info session we are sharing a general overview on what are the international standards set by the New York Convention on which national courts should follow in the recognition and enforcement of arbitral awards. Check the document here for more details. This week, our guest is
Sharing Best Practices in Circular Economy
18 June 2021 ?Join us in the upcoming events on circular economy: 1️⃣ Circular Economy in the Agri-food Sector | 28 June 2021 @ 10:00 - 11:30 am 2️⃣ Circular Economy in the Textile Sector | 29 June 2021 @ 10:00- 11:30 am 3️⃣ Circular Economy in the Construction Sector | 30 June 2021 @ 10:00-11:30 am 4️⃣ Circular Economy in the Financial Services | 1 July 2021 @10:00-11:30 am
Trade defaults rise due to COVID-19 but overall performance not significantly out of line with longer-term range
17 June 2021 ICC – along with partners Boston Consulting Group and Global Credit Data – has published interim findings from its Trade Register on the performance of short-term trade and supply chain finance assets from 2019 and 2020. Preliminary analysis of the data for these assets has identified an increase in defaults across most trade finance products in 2020, which is likely at least in part attributable to the
What is the importance of the United Nations’ Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights?
15 June 2021 Ahead of the 2019 United Nations (UN) Business and Human Rights Forum, the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) is reaffirming its longstanding commitment to the the United Nations’ Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs). At this year’s UN Business and Human Rights Forum in Geneva on 25-27 November, ICC will join participants from government, business and civil society to establish a constructive approach for advancing human rights.
”Monday Arbitration Day” Campaign (6/7)
14 June 2021 The sixth session of the ”Monday Arbitration Day” Campaign will focus on the costs in international arbitration. During this session it is provided a general overview on what constitutes the cost of arbitration and the effective management of an arbitration. Arbitrators’ fees and case administration account for a much smaller proportion of the overall costs in an ICC Arbitration. Significant work has already been done by the
Weak G7 commitments on vaccines pose major downside risk to world economy
11 June 2021 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has issued a warning that G7 leaders risk imposing major costs to the global economy absent of a step-change in their approach to managing the Covid-19 pandemic. Reports ahead of the Carbis Bay summit have indicated that the UK and the United States will pledge in the region of 600 million doses of proven vaccines to emerging economies over the next
”Monday Arbitration Day” Campaign (5/7)
7 June 2021: BLOG Arbitral Tribunals This fifth session of the ”Monday Arbitration Day” Campaign will focus on the appointment of the arbitral tribunal. We are providing a general overview on the appointment of the arbitral tribunal by taking into consideration the provisions of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Rules of Arbitration 2021, in force since 1 January 2021. On 19 May 2016, ICC signed an Equal Representation in
ICC responds to G7 deal on taxation
6 June 2021 ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO has issued a statement in reaction to a G7 deal on taxation. ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO said: “Effective international tax reform is a matter of considerable importance to global business. This must serve the dual need of restoring public finances and reinvigorating local economies in the wake of COVID-19. International coherence will play a pivotal role in
ICC World Trade Organization Director-General, Okonjo-Iweala briefs ICC global network
4 June 2021 World Trade Organization Director-General, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala briefed members of the ICC global network today, marking her first major address to global business since taking up the role on 1 March. In an exclusive global briefing to over 1,000 participants from over 100 countries, Director General Okonjo-Iweala set out her vision for the future of the global trade body – expressing a desire for it to do more to engage with
Business leaders and civil society urge UN to take meaningful action to combat corruption
3 May 2021 ICC and Integrity Initiatives International press for stronger enforcement of anti-corruption laws. The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and Integrity Initiatives International (III), along with 96 civil society organizations from over 50 countries, have called on the UN General Assembly to establish an intergovernmental working group to develop proposals for new frameworks and mechanisms to address weaknesses in current international anti-corruption legal frameworks. Corruption is one of the underlying
Monday Arbitration Day Campaign (4/7)
31 May 2021: BLOG Arbitration Proceedings The fourth session of the ”Monday Arbitration Day” Campaign focuses on the arbitration proceedings. The Covid-19 pandemic has affected the arbitration proceedings by increasing the use of technology during the hearings. In the 2021 survey conducted by Queen Mary University, London in collaboration with White & Case, it has been concluded that the parties actually would prefer to continue with virtual hearings instead of
ICC Trade Now to connect SMEs to innovative trade finance solutions
26 May 2021 ICC has launched ICC Trade Now, a suite of digital products and services to tackle the global trade finance gap in all its breadth and complexity. Through tailored partnerships with cutting edge solution providers, ICC Trade Now will scale up trade finance solutions, empower small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and provide financiers with new investment opportunities. International trade is a key driver of growth and innovation for SMEs worldwide
“Monday Arbitration Day” Campaign (3/7)
24 May 2021: BLOG ICC Court of Arbitration & New ICC Rules of Arbitration 2021 The third session of the ”Monday Arbitration Day” Campaign will focus on the arbitration rules that govern arbitration proceedings. The parties in arbitration have the autonomy to choose the arbitration rules that are tailored for their dispute. In this info session will be referred to the main features of the ICC Rules and the last
Russian Ministry of Justice grants ICC Permanent Arbitration Institution status
19 May 2021: The International Court of Arbitration of the International Chamber of Commerce has announced that it has been granted the status of Permanent Arbitration Institution by the Council for the Development of the Arbitration Process of the Ministry of Justice of the Russian Federation. As a Permanent Arbitral Institution, the ICC International Court of Arbitration will administer Russian-seated international arbitrations, enabling parties to seek enforcement of ICC arbitral
ICC celebrates 5 years of progress since arbitration gender pledge
19 May 2021 On 19 May 2016, ICC signed an Equal Representation in Arbitration Pledge, calling for enhanced diversity in international arbitration. Celebrating the anniversary of the signing five years on, ICC’s efforts to improve the representation of women in arbitration goes from strength to strength. Here are three ways we’ve been turning our pledge into action. Achieving gender parity of the ICC Court In 2018, ICC marked a milestone
ICC publishes new set of tools to bring clarity to business amid the COVID-19 pandemic
18 May 2021 ICC has published a series of new tools to enable small businesses, transporters, and banks to support an inclusive and resilient recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the outbreak of the pandemic, small businesses, transporters and banks have been forced to grapple with uncertain economic conditions, costly trade barriers and new workplace restrictions. As business leaders and policymakers prepare for the recovery, ICC has released a new
”Monday Arbitration Day” Campaign (2/7)
17 May 2021: BLOG Institutional vs ad hoc arbitration The second session of the ''Monday Arbitration Day'' Campaign will focus on features of ad hoc and institutional arbitration. For this later, ICC Arbitration will be the reference arbitral institution. This week, our guest is Dr. Ledina Mandija, Lector of the Faculty of Law at the University of Tirana and Attorney at Law. Dr. Mandija in a short article will explain
“Monday Arbitration Day” Campaign (1/7)
10 May 2021: BLOG "Monday Arbitration Day" Campaign & Why to chose arbitration? ICC Albania kicks off the ''Monday Arbitration Day'' Campaign. The main purpose of this campaign is to raise awareness and promote arbitration in Albania as an alternative dispute resolution mechanism to resolve commercial and investment disputes. This campaign will take place for seven consecutive Mondays, from May, 10th 2021 until June, 21st, 2021. Albanian practioners in Albania
ICC mobilises business worldwide to convey shared views on trusted government access to private-sector held personal data
7 May 2021 ICC and Business at the OECD (BIAC) have issued a joint statement to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development on high-level principles for trusted government access to personal data. ICC and BIAC have joined forces to deliver a statement – supported by over 20 business associations globally – to the OECD as it embarks on developing high-level principles and guidance on government access to private-sector held
ICC world’s most preferred arbitral institute, global survey finds
6 May 2021: ICC’s reputation as the world’s most preferred arbitral institute has been upheld in a major survey of arbitration professionals and users worldwide. The 2020 Survey by Queen Mary University, London in partnership with law firm White & Case, reveals that of all nominations received, ICC stands out once more as the most preferred institution among arbitration providers, including market leaders featured in the rankings who have led
ICC joins global commitment calling for a people-centered approach to achieve meaningful connectivity
28 April 2021 ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO has signed a joint statement on how to achieve meaningful connectivity for all at the 2021 High-Level Digital Debate of the United Nations (UN) General Assembly on Connectivity and Digital Cooperation. The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated that meaningful digital access is indispensable to global resilience and prosperity. Since the onset of the crisis, digital technologies have helped sustain business operations
ICC confirms diverse Centre for ADR Standing Committee to bolster expertise and dispute boards
16 April 2021 ICC has announced new additions to the Standing Committee of its International Centre for ADR (Centre), including a new president and vice-presidents. The Standing Committee supports the ICC International Centre for ADR in administering ADR cases filed under ICC Expert Rules and ICC Dispute Board Rules. This includes aiding in the selection of experts and dispute board members and deciding challenges filed against them; scrutinising expert reports and reviewing decisions of Dispute
ICC and Jus Mundi launch partnership to publish ICC arbitral awards
1 April 2021 ICC and Jus Mundi have joined forces to make publishable, ICC arbitral awards freely available to the global legal community. Throughout its 100-year history, ICC has brought global business together to support an international rules-based order, including the promotion of global trade and commerce through initiatives and services including those of the ICC International Court of Arbitration (ICC Court). The partnership will see Jus Mundi, the world’s most
ICC shines light on proliferation and fragmentation of private antitrust enforcement regimes
31 March 2021 New publication shines a light on the proliferation – and worrying fragmentation – of private antitrust enforcement regimes A new ICC publication shines a spotlight on the increasingly fragmented nature of national regimes designed to allow citizens and companies to claim compensation if they are the victims of alleged antitrust abuses. Once a phenomenon limited to the United States, the past decade has seen a proliferation in
ICC and TradeFlow Capital Management join forces to enable commodity trade for SMEs
30 March 2021 ICC and TradeFlow Capital Management will introduce a partnership to mobilize capital and improve trade finance access for small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO announced an ambitious partnership with TradeFlow Capital Management during the World Trade Organization’s 2021 Global Trade & Blockchain Forum, as part of ICC’s growing effort to enable SME access to short-term liquidity to survive the ongoing economic
Financing for Development in the Era of COVID-19 and Beyond
29 March 2021 Speeches: High-Level Meeting with Heads of State and Government on the International Debt Architecture and Liquidity ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO – Thank you, your Excellency Mr Secretary-General and the Honorable Prime Ministers of Canada and Jamaica, for the opportunity to address this session. – Your Excellencies, distinguished colleagues, ladies and gentlemen: – In our first High Level Meeting – in May of last year
Making Ethics Work: 6 Ways ICC enables responsible business action
25 March 2021 From setting the gold standard for international advertising self-regulation since 1937 to enabling businesses to integrate ethics and compliance considerations into their operations, ICC plays a leading role in enabling high standards of corporate governance based on ethical business practices. To mark the launch of a new study on ethical and responsible business – compiled by Principia Advisory in partnership with ICC, Clifford Chance, INvolve, GlobeScan and the Institute
ICC and Mind the Bridge launch the 2021 Corporate Startup Stars Awards
23 March 2021 ICC and Mind the Bridge announced the official launch of the 2021 Corporate Startup Stars competition as part of the MENA Digital Scaleup Summit in Dubai. The official kick off of the 2021 edition of the “Corporate Startup Stars Awards” was announced today in Dubai as part of the MENA Digital Scaleup Summit hosted by the Dubai Future Foundation and United Nations Economic and Social Commission for West Asia
ICC zeros in on Asia and technology with new Dispute Resolution Governing Body additions
22 March 2021 ICC has announced new additions to its Governing Body for Dispute Resolution Services. New members to the Executive Board subcommittee responsible for ICC Arbitration and ADR will bolster ICC’s commitment to making its leading dispute resolution services more accessible to users in Asia while supporting objectives to digitise services in line with user needs and COVID-19 safety protocols. The new line up also aims to amplify the
ICC welcomes G7 signals to provide financial relief to COVID-hit emerging nations
19 March 2021 ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO has issued a statement following news that the G7 will back proposals to provide financial support to help poorer nations recovery from pandemic impact. “I am delighted to see G7 finance ministers heed the longstanding call from global business and workers in committing today to make new financial support available to emerging economies. Fresh liquidity is urgently needed to ensure
ICC Albania launched Commission on Sustainable Development and Integrity
18 March 2021 On Thursday 18 March, ICC Albania launched a new working group which primary focus of work will be the Sustainable Development Goals. This initiative names as Commission on Sustainable Development and Integrity will have as purpose to build dialogue and expertise among representatives from private and public sector, civil society and academia and youth to reinforce responsible business conduct and integrity in their business model. The Commission
ICC congratulates Mathias Cormann on his appointment as OECD Secretary-General
13 March 2021 ICC looks forward to working with Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Secretary-General-designate Mathias Cormann to address the world’s pressing policy challenges. After an extensive multi-candidate selection process, Mathias Cormann, Australia’s former Finance Minister, has been confirmed as the next OECD Secretary-General. Since the OECD was founded 60 years ago, ICC has contributed the voice of business to OECD discussions, papers, and policy positions. On Mr
ICC and Mastercard Partner to Deliver Common Consistent Digital Health Pass Experience
11 March 2021 ICC and Mastercard will work with stakeholders from civil society, business, and government to create an environment that encourages the development and proliferation of interoperable digital health pass solutions to accelerate the global recovery. Today, governments are mostly relying on a range of paper-based processes to determine the COVID-19 test results and vaccine status of travellers. In many cases, these paper certificates can be easily falsified, are
ICC publishes latest edition of Innovation Principles
10 March 2021 ICC has published the latest edition of the ICC Innovation Principles, a guide to the policy frameworks that create and nurture robust innovation ecosystems. The ICC Innovation Principles provide an overview of the policy framework that businesses of all sizes need to innovate. The principles focus on Innovation Ecosystems, in recognition of the complex and interconnected nature of innovative activity. A call is made for multistakeholder conversations in all policy
ICC and Finastra team up to tackle the trade finance gap
10 March 2021 ICC and Finastra join forces to develop a financing marketplace for micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises. ICC and Finastra have committed to a strategic initiative to tackle the growing trade finance gap. Both organisations are orchestrating an ecosystem and exploring the development of a financing marketplace that will provide micro-, small, and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with access to a broader set of alternative finance resources in order to help
ICC Trading Thoughts with Cecilia Malmstrom
9 March 2021 ICC Trading Thoughts speaks with Cecilia Malmstrom, the former EU Commissioner for Trade and one of the final OECD Secretary-General candidates. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) is celebrating it’s 60 anniversary this year. Since entering into force in 1961, the OECD has played a critical role in advancing multilateral solutions to global challenges. As the world continues to grapple with the COVID-19 crisis and
ICC chooses to challenge on International Women’s Day
9 March 2021 As part International Women’s Day 2021, ICC’s employees are choosing to challenge and call out gender bias and inequality. In recognition of this year’s #ChooseToChallenge theme, ICC employees and staff from around the world are raising their hand to call out gender inequality and celebrate women’s achievements. Shinta Widjaja Kamdani, ICC Executive Board member and CEO of Sintesa Group, joined World Trade Organization (WTO) Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala to discuss
ICC warns EU vaccine export controls must be rolled back without delay
4 March 2021 ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO has issued the following statement in response to breaking news that Italy has used EU export controls to block the export of COVID-19 Astra Zeneca vaccines to Australia. Mr Denton said: “While we understand the political pressures at play within Europe, blocking exports to meet domestic vaccination targets is a very dangerous card for policymakers to play. Vaccine manufacturing within
Eduardo Silva Romero talks of advancing diversity, scope of ICC Institute as new Chair
4 March 2021 Eduardo Silva Romero, Co-Chair of Dechert’s International Arbitration Global Practice, was elected as Chair of the ICC Institute of World Business Law last year. Having stepped into his role officially in January, he has an ambitious agenda for the global think-tank. We sat down with Mr Silva Romero to learn about his plans to prioritise diversity and expand the focus of the Institute to ensure it remains
ICC/UNICEF: Funding shortfalls and supply chain challenges threaten equitable vaccine distribution
2 March 2021 ICC Secretary-General John W.H. Denton AO and Henrietta Fore, Executive Director of UNICEF, have penned a joint op-ed highlighting the urgency of addressing barriers to the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines. Recognising UNICEF’s role as the procurement partner for the Global COVAX Facility, leading the largest vaccine procurement and supply operation in history, the ICC and UNICEF chiefs have called on world leaders to address the “rounding error”
ICC Trading Thoughts with Karima-Catherine Goundiam, founder of B2beeMatch
26 February 2021 On the latest episode of ICC Trading Thoughts, Karima-Catherine Goundiam, the founder of B2beeMatch, speaks about the importance of creating a digital network for small and medium-sized enterprises. ICC sat down with Karima-Catherine Goundiam, the founder of B2bee Match to discuss her background as an entrepreneur and how business leaders and policymakers can enable SMEs with the tools and resources that they need to digitise their operations. B2bee Match
Guest blog: Making arbitration work in a down market
25 February 2021 As we wrap up the end of the ICC MENA Conference on International Arbitration, Faris Shehabi, Managing Associate of Ince, explores specific issues that can arise in periods of economic downturn and the available tools to combat them. In any arbitration, there will be a number of interested actors–the claimant and the respondent (there may be more than one of each); the arbitral tribunal; and, where chosen
World Chambers Competition to recognise chambers building back better
23 February 2021 Hamad Buamim, Chair of the International Chamber of Commerce’s (ICC) World Chambers Federation (WCF) has officially launched the World Chambers Competition. The 2021 edition of the Competition will recognise chambers of commerce around the world that are striving to keep their business communities functioning even in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. Watch the video The sudden coronavirus outbreak led to unprecedented disruption and hardship for many
ICC welcomes G7 focus on COVID-19 vaccines
19 February 2021 Calling for global action plan to beat the pandemic, ICC, the institutional representative of over 45 million businesses – has issued a statement following the conclusion of the G7 leaders’ summit. ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO said: “G7 leaders have sent a very welcome signal today of their intent to correct the failings in international cooperation that have blighted the response to Covid-19 over the
Air France announces ICC AOK Pass test programme
17 February 2021 Air France has announced a pilot of ICC AOKpass, to improve its customers’ experience and streamline the airport journey. The four-week test will begin on 11 March 2021 on all Air France flights from Paris-CDG to Pointe-à-Pitre (Guadeloupe) and Fort-de-France (Martinique). It will be done on a voluntary basis, in order to test the operation of the application in real conditions and to collect opinions of test
Auckland University wins ICC Mediation Competition
12 February 2021 New Zealand’s University of Auckland took victory in the 16th edition of the ICC International Commercial Mediation Competition in an all-woman final against Bulgaria’s University of Sofia. The University of New South Wales, Australia took third place, followed by the Brooklyn Law School from the United States in fourth. Watch the final mock mediation The fictitious final dispute between a small textile manufacturer and a distribution company
ICC welcomes backing of Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as WTO Director General
6 February 2021 Following the announcement that the US has given its formal backing to Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala to lead the World Trade Organization, ICC has issued the following statement. ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO said: “The global business community will be delighted to learn that the US Administration has given its backing to Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala to take up the position of World Trade Organization Director General.
ICC Mediation Week 2021 goes digital
5 February 2021 ICC’s largest educational event of the year, ICC Mediation Week, begins today and is going digital for the first time in its 16-year history. More than 400 students, ADR professionals, academics and volunteers from almost 40 countries will convene via a custom-built platform, to participate in the annual event, making it the most diverse edition to date. The global health crisis has impacted conflict resolution processes across
Guest blog: Mediation in a virtual world
4 February 2021 As students and professionals from countries spanning the globe gear up for the 16th annual ICC International Commercial Mediation Competition, Oliver Carroll of Clifford Chance has five tips to navigating mediation in a digital space. Oliver Carroll, Lawyer, Clifford Chance The COVID-19 pandemic has brought new challenges to all manner of dispute resolution. Whether it is becoming accustomed to addressing a judge from your bedroom via Zoom,
Global business calls for rethink of EU vaccine export restrictions
29 January 2021 The International Chamber of Commerce is calling on the European Commission to reconsider the introduction of export controls on coronavirus vaccines made in the bloc. ICC Secretary General John W.H Denton AO said: “We are deeply concerned by the Commission’s decision to press ahead with the introduction of export controls on coronavirus vaccines made in the EU. Regardless of how these measures are calibrated, today’s announcement sends
ICC raises concern over proposed EU export curbs on Covid-19 vaccines
29 January 2021 An ICC letter to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed deep concern over the European Union’s plan to impose export restrictions on vaccines. The letter, sent yesterday from ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO on behalf of over 45 million businesses, expressed the global business community’s concern at proposals to impose controls on the export of COVID-19 vaccines manufactured in the EU. It called
Girona becomes first city to implement ICC AOKpass pilot scheme to safely re-open its economy
29 January 2021 The city of Girona will utilise ICC AOKpass in a pilot scheme to digitise COVID-19 antigen test results and safely reopen its economy in the age of the pandemic. The pilot scheme, which runs from 22 February until the end of March 2021, will allow users to present a digitally authenticated COVID-19 negative test result to gain entry into public exhibitions, business events, restaurants, and football matches.
Global coalition of industry associations call for breakthrough on data flows at the WTO
26 January 2021 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) joins global coalition of industry associations to advance WTO framework on data flows. ICC is pleased to join the release today of the Joint Industry Statement on Cross-Border Data Transfers and Data Localization Disciplines in the WTO Negotiations on E-Commerce, which encourages WTO negotiators to agree on a framework to facilitate the seamless and secure movement of information across borders. “COVID-19 has
Etihad Airlines to pilot ICC AOKpass on Paris-Abu Dhabi flights
26 January 2021 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), International SOS, and Ethiad Airlines have joined together to pilot ICC AOKpass on Paris-Abu Dhabi flights. In collaboration with Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, MedAire, an International SOS company, has launched an advanced operational pilot for the digitalisation of pre-departure COVID-19 testing using the ICC AOKpass mobile app. Following the success of an initial pilot for Etihad
Study shows vaccine nationalism could cost rich countries US$4.5 trillion
25 January 2021 New comprehensive economic modelling shows advanced economies stand to lose trillions of dollars through vaccine nationalism – more than previously thought Economic benefits of funding multilateral efforts to ensure equitable access to vaccines dwarf the costs Advanced economies with international linkages have the most to gain from global collaboration on vaccine access and distribution A new study commissioned by the ICC Research Foundation has found that the
New ICC report takes bold move to tackle unreliability of witness testimony in arbitration
19 January 2021 ICC has launched a new report on the accuracy of fact witness memory in international arbitration. The report, which is the first of its kind conducted by an arbitral institution, analyses the psychological science of human memory, and offers arbitrators and counsel guidance to enhance the probative value of fact witness evidence The groundbreaking report, by the ICC Commission on Arbitration and ADR, was presented today during
ICC announces record 2020 caseloads in Arbitration and ADR
12 January 2021 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has announced record requests in 2020 for its arbitration and ADR services. The world’s preferred arbitral institute, the ICC International Court of Arbitration recorded a total of 946 new arbitration cases in 2020 – the highest number of cases registered since 2016, when a complex cluster of small disputes effectuated a marked increase in the statistics. Of the 946 total registered
AdR and Alitalia begin digitalising negativity certificates with ICC AOKpass
5 January 2021 Aeroporti di Roma and Alitalia have today begun using ICC AOKpass in a pilot scheme to digitise Covid-19 rapid antigen test results, carried out at the airport. The testing will allow passengers bound for New York on Alitalia Covid-tested flights to present, upon boarding, a digital negativity certificate from a Covid-19 rapid antigen test, augmenting safety and saving time during travel procedures. In December, ICC announced the first
8 ways ICC led dispute resolution in 2020
1 January 2021 In a challenging year, ICC remained steadfast in our commitment to bring our quality dispute resolution services closer to users worldwide. Here are 8 highlights from our ICC Dispute Resolution year… Announcing record figures and a major milestone ICC’s dispute resolution year got off to a flying start with the registration of our 25,000th arbitration case. In January, we also announced record figures for 2019 revealing a
10 ways ICC made business work in 2020
29 December 2020 In a year that put to the test ICC’s ability to mobilise business behind global challenges, our pioneering spirit shone through to ensure our global institution lived up to its reputation as the trusted voice of business on issues facing people and planet. We’re taking a look back at our ground-breaking year to wrap up just 10 ways in which we made business work for everyone, every
ICC Court releases updates to its Note ahead of 2021 ICC Arbitration Rules ICC Court releases updates to its Note ahead of 2021 ICC Arbitration Rules
29 December 2020 Ahead of the entry into force of the 2021 ICC Arbitration Rules, the International Court of Arbitration of the International Chamber of Commerce has released updates to its Note to Parties and Arbitral Tribunals on the Conduct of Arbitration under the ICC Rules of Arbitration, effective 1 January 2021. Last updated in 2019, the Note provides parties and arbitral tribunals with practical guidance concerning the conduct of arbitrations under
Making competition law part of the solution to the climate challenge
10 December 2020 ICC has launched a working paper outlining how changes to the application of competition law could accelerate corporate action to fight climate change. Issued on the eve of the fifth anniversary of the landmark Paris Agreement, the paper highlights how competition law – and, more specifically, the fear of unnecessarily restrictive antitrust enforcement – currently inhibits companies from working together to reduce their carbon footprints. There are
New report addresses illicit crimes in free trade zones
10 December 2020 ICC’s Business Action to Stop Counterfeiting and Piracy (BASCAP) initiative has released a 2020 update of its 2013 publication examining the balance of facilitation and control required to combat illicit trade in Free Trade Zones. Paris, 10 December 2020 The updated paper Controlling the zone: Balancing facilitation and control to combat illicit trade in the world’s Free Trade Zones sheds light on the trends of counterfeiting and other forms
SME Climate Hub launches climate action tools for small and medium-sized businesses
10 December 2020 The SME Climate Hub has joined forces with Oxford University to provide small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with tools and resources to help them take climate action. Ahead of the 5th anniversary of the Paris Agreement signing, the freely available tools and resources are specially selected for SMEs to reduce carbon emissions, build business resilience and gain a competitive advantage, and help them achieve the Paris Agreement
Trade agreement on e-commerce essential
9 December 2020 In a memo to World Trade Organization Members, ICC has called on negotiators to accelerate progress and conclude a high standard agreement by the next WTO Ministerial Conference. There are now 86 World Trade Organization (WTO) Members negotiating the JSI, representing well over 90% of world trade. Citing the indispensable role of the digital economy during COVID-19, the memo says: “As communities have socially distanced to flatten
Ibero-American business community calls for integrity and the fight against corruption
8 December 2020 ICC’s Ibero-American national committees in 13 countries have joined forces to mark International Anti-Corruption Day, underscoring the importance of the anti-corruption agenda as a key means of promoting social inclusion and economic growth in the region in the context of the current pandemic. Celebrated on 9 December each year, Anti-Corruption Day aims to raise awareness of corruption and of the role of the 2005 United Nations Convention Against
ICC and Saïd Business School announce collaboration to develop AI principles for the private sector
8 December 2020 ICC and Oxford University’s Saïd Business School will join forces to develop a set of all-encompassing artificial intelligence (AI) principles to enable business to implement innovative, trustworthy, and human-centric AI solutions as part of their operations. Over the years, policy and regulatory discussions concerning AI have focused on sector-specific or issue-specific issues without considering wider ethical, societal, or business implications. As part of this partnership, researchers from
ICC Sustainability Working Group announces new project to review the state of sustainable finance across the export finance industry
3 December 2020 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Global Export Finance Committee’s Sustainability Working Group (ICC-SWG) has commissioned International Financial Consulting Ltd. and Acre Impact Capital to develop a white paper, to be published in June 2021. The paper will review the state of sustainable finance across the export finance industry and propose both product and policy recommendations aimed at increasing the flow of export financing towards sustainable activity.
ICC publishes submission to the European Commission’s review of trade policy
1 December 2020 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) publishes its submission to the European Commission’s Consultation on Trade Policy Review. Launched in June 2020, the European Commission’s Consultation on Trade Policy Review is an all-encompassing examination of the European Union’s (EU) trade policy settings. The consultation’s objective is to build consensus around EU Trade policy, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and other trade-related challenges. The Commission
ICC welcomes creation of quarantine free travel corridor between the United States and Italy
26 November 2020 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) welcomes Delta Airlines and Alitalia’s announcement of quarantine-free flights from Atlanta and New York to Rome. In close coordination with Italian and American officials, Delta Airlines and Alitalia will begin operating quarantine-free flights between Aeroporti di Roma and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Beginning mid- December, Delta-Alitalia passengers travelling between Atlanta and Rome will be required to take a polymerase chain reaction
ICC presents electronic ATA Carnet at annual World Customs Organization meeting
24 November 2020 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) provided an update on the electronic ATA Carnet (eATA) pilot project as part of the World Customs Organization’s annual ATA/Istanbul Administrative council meeting. The virtual meeting – which gathered customs experts from around the world – discussed ICC’s eATA Carnet pilot project, the impact of COVID-19 on ATA Carnet operations, as well as interpretation issues related to ATA Carnet claims. The ATA
How can ICC AOKpass reopen cross border travel and trade in the age of COVID-19?
23 November 2020 ICC AOKpass, a risk mitigation tool, is a scalable solution that enables governments and border authorities to reopen cross border travel safely and efficiently. ICC AOKpass allows users to present digitally authenticated, secure and portable copies of medical records to government authorities, border agencies and employers, without compromising their personal data. Supported by International SOS and SGS Group, the ICC AOKpass digital application utilises secure blockchain technology
ICC advocates for sustainable, secure, and inclusive digital policies for all at IGF 2020
18 November 2020 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) virtually joined stakeholders at the annual Internet Governance Forum (IGF) to share in policy conversations concerning the future of Internet governance. During the first-ever virtual IGF, ICC convened business, government, civil society and the technical community to discuss the most pressing issues related to Internet governance through a series of workshops, high-level sessions, and roundtable discussions. Taking place under the theme
ICC and Pearson announce partnership to develop skills for people in a rapidly changing economy
17 November 2020 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and Pearson have announced a new collaboration to create educational products and services that will equip people with the necessary skills to thrive in an ever-changing global economy. Over the past decade, digitalisation, automation and artificial intelligence have reshaped industries and created new skillset requirements for workforces everywhere. These changing conditions have only accelerated in the age of the COVID-19 pandemic,
ICC Intellectual Property Roadmap to provide business guidance in ever-changing IP landscape
16 November 2020 ICC has published the latest edition of the Intellectual Property (IP) Roadmap – a comprehensive guide and overview of the key intellectual property issues faced by business professionals, policymakers, and legal experts. The latest edition of the IP Roadmap covers emerging IP issues, including artificial intelligence, sustainable innovation and persistent threats posed by piracy and counterfeiting to business operations. The Roadmap explains how, since the outbreak of the COVID-19
ICC calls for increased collaboration on digitalisation tax challenges ICC calls for increased collaboration on digitalisation tax challenges
14 November 2020 ICC has welcomed the opportunity for further business engagement to address taxation challenges relating to the digitalisation of the economy but calls for increased collaboration to achieve global consensus agreement. The call follows the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development’s (OECD)’s update on international tax negotiations this week. Digitalisation is revolutionising the way businesses operate but is also creating new opportunities for global growth and prosperity. Technological
ICC brings cooperative solutions to address challenges of multilateralism at Paris Peace Forum 2020
13 November 2020 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) joined leaders from government, civil society, and the private sector to advance governance solutions at the first ever virtual Paris Peace Forum. Formed in 2018, the Paris Peace Forum is an annual event that gathers policymakers, including Heads of state and international organisations, to discuss new forms of collective action to address governance challenges. As an official partner of the Forum,
France 24 asks ICC: What can small businesses expect from the Biden administration?
13 November 2020 In an interview with international news channel France 24, ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO outlined measures that the incoming Biden administration can take to shield small businesses from the economic consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. Speaking to Senior News Editor and anchor Stephen Carroll, Mr Denton underscored the vital role played by small businesses within the much wider landscape of the US economy saying: “In the
G20: leverage trade finance to safeguard SMEs and power global recovery
9 November 2020 ICC’s Advisory Group on Trade Finance has called on G20 leaders to leverage trade finance to safeguard SMEs and power global recovery. The co-chairs of a high-level advisory group to the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) have issued an urgent call to G20 leaders to take action to avert the risk of widespread insolvencies amongst small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) globally, due to the Covid-19 pandemic. In
Chambers of Commerce meet to discuss Certificate of Origin issues and digital initiatives
6 November 2020 The ICC WCF International Certificate of Origin Council (ICO) gathered virtually for their annual meeting to address recent developments in Certificate of Origin (CO) and digital initiatives. ICC WCF welcomed 47 CO experts from 32 countries to the online meeting which was chaired by Peter Bishop, Chairman of ICC World Chambers Federation (WCF) International CO Council and Deputy CEO of the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry,
ICC announces recommendation for ICC Court President successor
3 November 2020 ICC is pleased to announce that Claudia T. Salomon has been recommended for election as President of the ICC International Court of Arbitration with effect from 1 July 2021 putting her on a path to becoming the first woman President of the ICC Court in its almost 100-year history. A member of the New York Bar and a solicitor in England and Wales, Ms Salomon is a
ICC brings together business leaders at first-ever virtual Internet Governance Forum
29 October 2020 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) is virtually convening business leaders to participate in the 15th annual Internet Governance Forum (IGF) to discuss pressing issues, like digital inclusion, data governance, trust online, environmental sustainability, and more. The Internet Governance Forum (IGF) was launched in 2006 by the United Nations (UN) Secretary General to serve as a multi-stakeholder dialogue on key legal, political, social, and technical issues related
Five takeaways from the ICC Banking Commission’s virtual Technical Meeting
28 October 2020 International experts from the banking industry came together to discuss key topics affecting the trade finance industry this week at the Annual Technical Meeting of ICC’s Banking Commission. International experts from the banking industry came together to discuss key topics affecting the trade finance industry this week at the Annual Technical Meeting of ICC’s Banking Commission. Here are five highlights from the day: Digitalisation of trade finance
ICC joins business, development, and humanitarian partners to launch Private Sector for Refugees web portal
27 October 2020 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has launched the Private Sector for Refugees (PS4R) web portal to showcase public-private sector collaborations that integrate refugees into the global economy. In collaboration with the European Investment Bank, Danish Industri, the World Bank Group, and the United Nations Refugee Agency, the PS4R web portal will share global lessons on the role of the private sector in supporting the economic integration
ICC welcomes Japan commitment to net-zero
26 October 2020 ICC – the institutional representative of 45 million companies – has welcomed today’s announcement by newly elected Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga, committing Japan to achieving net zero emissions by 2050. Commenting on the announcement, ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO said: “I commend Prime Minister Suga for this concrete commitment to meeting the goals of the Paris Agreement. As the third largest economy and the
ICC unveils revised Rules of Arbitration
8 October 2020 The International Court of Arbitration of the International Chamber of Commerce has unveiled revised Rules of Arbitration due to enter into force in January 2021. The 2021 ICC Arbitration Rules mark another step towards even more efficient, flexible and transparent ICC Arbitrations offering. The ICC International Court of Arbitration is the most preferred arbitral institution worldwide. The ICC Rules of Arbitration offer the greatest deference to party autonomy –
Global business, workers and civil society emphatic in call for comprehensive emergency debt relief
8 October 2020 ICC, ITUC and Global Citizen call for an updated G20 Action Plan to address the barriers that sovereign debt burdens present toward pandemic containment and economic stabilisation. In an open letter issued today, the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), the institutional representative of over 45 million businesses, the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC), the global voice of the world’s working people, and Global Citizen, a movement of
ICC sets out roadmap for resuming international travel safely and quickly
6 October 2020 In an open letter to G20 tourism ministers, ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO has said Covid-free travel can be achieved through a balance of right policy settings, technological tools and industry buy-in. Addressing ministers ahead of their 7 October meeting as part of the Sherpa Track for the G20 Leaders Summit 2020, Mr Denton’s letter underscores the need to re-open international travel while credibly addressing
The time to act is now, ICC tells UN Biodiversity Summit
30 September 2020 Genuine resilience in the recovery from Covid-19 will only be achieved if there is concerted action to reverse biodiversity loss, ICC Secretary John W.H. Denton AO has stated in a message to today’s United Nations Summit on Biodiversity. Underscoring that an inflection point had been reached in the relationship with the planet and its resources, Mr Denton asked Summit participants: “If now is not the time for us
UNWTO, ICC & AOKpass Partnership to Rebuild International Travel and Tourism
30 September 2020 The World Tourism Organization of the United Nations (UNWTO), International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and AOKpass have officially partnered to support coordinated global efforts to more safely and efficiently restart travel. Under the collaboration agreement, the partners will work closely to support the rebuilding of travel, tourism and related sectors, which have been profoundly devastated by the global pandemic. “Countries and workers reliant on tourism for jobs
Call for applications: ICC Institute Prize
29 September 2020 The International Chamber of Commerce’s (ICC) Institute of World Business Law is pleased to announce the launch of the 10th edition of the ICC Institute Prize. This award recognises the best in class legal work in commercial law, including arbitration. The ICC institute Prize awards €10,000 to an exceptional thesis with the aim to acknowledge and contribute to the understanding and process in the field. Nayla Comair-Obeid, Jury
ICC Sec Gen sets out 3 priorities to revive COVID-hit global economy
28 September 2020 ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO has outline three priorities for reviving the global economy as quickly and as safely as possible in the COVID-19 era. Speaking today at a conference jointly organised by ICC and the China Council for International Cooperation, Mr Denton underscored the imperative to keep markets open and enhance cooperation saying that getting the balance right could have huge dividends: “We cannot respond
Call to scale up commitments to the Access to COVID tools accelerator
28 September 2020 Global business, workers, and civil society call on all governments to ensure equitable access to COVID-19 health tools. In an open letter issued today, ICC, ITUC, and Global Citizen called for all governments to intensify their political and financial commitments to the Access to COVID tools accelerator (ACT-A), an unprecedented collaboration between intergovernmental organisations, industry and civil society that would ensure the equitable access to, and allocation
ICC First Vice-Chair becomes first LatAm business leader to take SME Climate Commitment
28 September 2020 In a major international broadcast, Maria Fernanda Garza – ICC First Vice-Chair and Chief Executive Officer of Orestia – became one of the first signatories of the UN-recognised “SME Climate Commitment”, which forms part of the SME Climate Hub initiative launched to provide small businesses with clear commercial incentives to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. In making the commitment, Orestia has pledged to halve its carbon emissions
ICC joins pledge for step change on biodiversity
28 September 2020 ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO has joined forces with global leaders in a pledge to Reverse Biodiversity Loss by 2030 for Sustainable Development. Ahead of Wednesday’s United Nations Summit on Biodiversity Mr Denton has become a signatory of the Leaders’ Pledge for Nature which aims to ramp up long-term global ambition and commitment to take transformative actions for nature, climate and people. Announced today during
COVID-19 Private Sector Global Facility announced at SDG Business Forum
23 September 2020 ICC, UNDP and UN Global Compact join forces with DHL, Microsoft and PwC to help communities recover better from the pandemic. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the United Nations Global Compact (UN Global Compact) and the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) have established the COVID-19 Private Sector Global Facility, a global initiative and collaboration bringing together public and private sector partners to help local communities recover
New SME Climate Hub to make climate action simple for small business
21 September 2020 A new SME Climate Hub will support small- and medium-sized businesses to curb carbon emissions to increase competitiveness. A coalition of major organisations has announced the launch of the ground breaking one-stop shop climate action platform for small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to curb carbon emissions, build business resilience and gain a competitive advantage. The SME Climate Hub – co-hosted by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC),
ICC letter in FT flags consequences of retreat from commodity financing
18 September 2020 In a letter published in the Financial Times today, ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO calls on G20 leaders to heed warnings over the real-world consequences of banks retreating from financing commodity traders. Already threatening the livelihoods of small businesses who rely on funding and work on narrow margins, the worrying trend says Mr Denton, “could be a precursor to a much broader shortfall in the supply
ICC Albania Recommendations: New draft law on Arbitration
11 September 2020 ICC Albania Commission on Arbitration and ADR and other experts from its membership issues recommendations and comments on the new draft law on Arbitration published for public consultation. Please find below documents prepared by our working group: New Draft Law text - with tracked suggestions Additional Recommendations
2020 Business for Peace Award winners
9 September 2020 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and the Business for Peace Foundation are pleased to announce today the three winners of the 2020 Oslo Business for Peace Award. The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and the Business for Peace Foundation are pleased to announce today the three winners of the 2020 Oslo Business for Peace Award. This year’s honourees are Marc Benioff, Founder, Chair and CEO of Salesforce, James Mwangi, Chairman and CEO of Equity Group
ICC addresses Finance Minister’s meeting calling for cooperation on debt, financing and vaccine access
8 September 2020 ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO today addressed a meeting of Finance Ministers, convened by the United Nations Deputy Secretary-General and the Finance Ministers of Canada and Jamaica. Reaffirming ICC’s solidarity with governments in the effort to protect lives and livelihoods in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, Mr Denton highlighted the devastating effects of the pandemic on business and their associated concern with the debt
ICC goes live with trade digitalisation effort; announces executive appointment to lead Digital Standards Initiative
8 September 2020 ICC – renowned for its global standards that enable trillions of dollars of cross-border transactions each year – has announced the operational launch of a major new initiative to ensure the benefits of digital trade can be realised by everyone, everywhere. The ICC Digital Standards Initiative (DSI) will work towards the ambitious aim of establishing a globally harmonised, digitised trade environment – directly addressing disruptions experienced during
ICC launches high-level advisory group to prime trade finance to power COVID-19 recovery
3 September 2020 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), the institutional representative of 45 million businesses worldwide, has announced the creation of a new Advisory Group on Trade Finance (ATF) – a cross-sectoral coalition of leaders in global trade. The ATF – co-chaired by Victor K. Fung, Chairman of the Fung Group, and Marcus Wallenberg, Chair of SEB – will work to inform policy reforms and interventions to prime the trade credit ecosystem
World chambers report explores chamber of commerce response to COVID-19
2 September 2020 Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry with the support of ICC’s World Chambers Federation (WCF) has released a report on the preparedness of chambers of commerce to adapt their services in the face of COVID-19. Chambers of commerce, like businesses and governments, are experiencing new challenges and opportunities in the age of COVID-19. In recognition of the vital role that chambers of commerce play in their business communities, Dubai
ICC and World Travel and Tourism Council issue COVID-19 restart guide for the Travel & Tourism sector
28 August 2020 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) have published a set of recommendations for safely re-opening customer facing businesses in the age of COVID-19. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused widespread disruptions to global supply chains and businesses of all sizes. The Travel & Tourism sector has been particularly impacted by the current pandemic due to travel restrictions, declining traveller confidence
ICC publishes model online business-to-consumer (B2C) conditions of sale for new online sellers
12 August 2020 With more and more businesses turning to online sales in the age of COVID-19, the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has published a set of model online business-to-consumer (B2C) conditions of sale, to be adapted by sellers for use on their consumer-facing websites. As a result of the economic and health consequences associated with COVID-19, goods are increasingly being sold online to consumers. At the same time,
ICC, IOM launch COVID-19 guidance for the protection of migrants
10 August 2020 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) release employer guidance for measures to protect migrants during COVID-19. Watch our video on the importance of migrant workers. Migrant workers are a crucial part of the global workforce, accounting for 3.5% of the world’s population, according to IOM. Worldwide, micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), rely upon migrant workers, including sectors providing essential
Pilot test of ICC AOKpass announced successful
30 July 2020 International SOS and Singapore company Energy Drilling Management have announced a successful pilot of the ICC AOKpass mobile app. The use of the app provides trusted recognition of individuals’ COVID-19 compliance status from Singapore to Thailand. Following the pilot launch of ICC AOKpass in May – carried out with employees at the International SOS Singapore office – Energy Drilling worked with International SOS to test the app
ICC issues open letter to G20 ministers responsible for the digital economy
22 July 2020 Ahead of today’s meeting of G20 Digital Economy Ministers, the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) is calling upon G20 leaders to implement policies that will enable the deployment of digital technologies to tackle the consequences of COVID-19. In an open letter to G20 ministers responsible for the digital economy, ICC proposes a set of policy interventions aimed at accelerating and strengthening the world’s collective response to the COVID-19 pandemic.The
ICC and UNICEF call for greater public-private sector collaboration in response to COVID-19
21 July 2020 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and UNICEF have today issued a call for enhanced cooperation between the public and private sectors to strengthen the response to COVID-19 and enable a resilient and sustainable rebuild from the pandemic. Entitled “Reimagining the World We Need,” the joint statement leverages the organizations’ respective expertise in the fields of business and children’s rights to set out a common vision to
ICC Global Survey on Trade Finance confirms industry optimism
21 July 2020 The International Chamber of Commerce’s (ICC) 11th annual Global Survey on Trade Finance reveals that banks are optimistic about the evolving nature of trade finance, though unsurprisingly expect various industry-wide challenges and disruption as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2020 ICC Global Survey report – recognised as the world’s most authoritative review of the trade finance industry – has been released based on exclusive information
ICC releases 2019 Dispute Resolution statistics
15 July 2020 The International Court of Arbitration (ICC Court) of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has published its full dispute resolution statistical report for 2019, having announced preliminary record figures in January. The ICC Court registered a record 869 new cases in 2019. Of that total, 851 were administered under the ICC Rules of Arbitration and involved parties originating from 147 countries and independent territories, as well as arbitrators from a record
Crew kidnappings surge in seas off West Africa, IMB reports
15 July 2020 Violent attacks against ships and their crews have risen in 2020, with 77 seafarers taken hostage or kidnapped for ransom since January, reveals the ICC International Maritime Bureau’s (IMB) latest piracy report. The Gulf of Guinea off West Africa is increasingly dangerous for commercial shipping, accounting for just over 90% of maritime kidnappings worldwide. Meanwhile ship hijackings are at their lowest since 1993. In total, IMB’s Piracy
Global business, workers and civil society call for comprehensive emergency debt relief to enable all countries in need to combat the COVID-19 pandemic
13 July 2020 ICC, ITUC and Global Citizen call for greater action by G20 Governments on sovereign debt relief. In an open letter issued today, the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), the institutional representative of over 45 million businesses, the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC), the global voice of the world’s working people, and Global Citizen, a movement of engaged citizens who use their collective voice to end extreme poverty
How can the private sector advance sustainable development with ICT solutions?
10 July 2020 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) will discuss the potential of digital technologies for development and building back better from the current crisis, as part of the World Summit on Information Society (WSIS) Forum 2020. In the early 2000s, the Geneva Plan of Action, agreed during the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS), identified eighteen areas of activity in which governments, civil society entities, businesses and
ICC launches survey to understand challenges faced by small businesses in least-developed countries
1 July 2020 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) joins the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) and other partner organisations to launch a major survey to understand the unique challenges faced by small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) in least-developed countries (LDCs). The United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF), the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), the Global Alliance PME (GAPME), Concordia, Columbia University-Quantitative Methods in the Social Sciences, and
ICC publishes toolkit on the benefits of advertising self-regulation
26 June 2020 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has released a toolkit to ensure responsible and compliant advertising self-regulation. Advertising and marketing self-regulation is a framework by which the advertising, marketing, agency, and media industry set voluntary rules and standards of practice complementing and enhancing existing general framework laws and regulations. In many countries, self-regulatory organisations are established to enforce the industry’s commitment to these rules. Recognising the lack
Continuous Transaction Controls: What business needs to know
25 June 2020 As government services become more and more digitalised, the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has released a set of practice principles for the implementation of continuous transaction controls (CTCs). This week, ICC published a set of practice principles for the implementation of CTCs. Never heard of them? While you wouldn’t be alone, CTCs are playing an increasing role in the way governments determine how much tax companies should pay
ICC elects Mastercard CEO Ajay Banga as new Chair
23 June 2020 ICC has elected MasterCard CEO Ajay Banga as Chair. Mr Banga, who has served as ICC’s First Vice-Chair since June 2018, becomes ICC Chair with immediate effect, succeeding Paul Polman who becomes ICC Honorary Chair, having served as Chair for the past two years. The election of Mr Banga during the ICC World Council, held annually, also confirmed Maria Fernanda Garza, CEO of Orestia and current Board member, as ICC First Vice-Chair – making her the
IE University, ICC launch Smart Trade Venture Day: Boosting trade in a post-COVID-19 environment
18 June 2020 Today, IE University together with the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) launched the “IE Smart Trade Venture Day”, a global challenge that seeks to support innovative projects after the impact of COVID-19. The Competition is particularly geared to startups with a focus on trade digitalisation, health, supply chain resilience, trade finance and any other issues relevant to helping small- and medium-sized (SMEs). The initiative aims to promote
COVID-19: 7 resources to help small business
15 June 2020 ICC is committed to helping small businesses impacted by COVID‑19. We’re highlighting seven digital business resources to help micro-, small- and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) during this unprecedented period and beyond. Whether you are looking for new ways to go global or interested in finding a neutral framework for your contractual relationships without the cost of a lawyer, the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has a variety of dedicated
ICC joins the United Nations Secretary-General to launch Roadmap for Digital Cooperation
11 June 2020 ICC joins United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to launch the Roadmap for Digital Cooperation. Today, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres issued his report, Roadmap for Digital Cooperation, in response to the recommendations provided by the High-Level Panel on Digital Cooperation. The Roadmap calls upon the global community to address issues such as digital connectivity, digital inclusion, human rights, artificial intelligence, and trust and security, as well as digital cooperation mechanisms and models. Ensuring meaningful
ICC publishes customs measures to Save Our SMEs
10 June 2020 ICC is calling upon governments to resolve customs challenges faced by small businesses by adopting concrete measures. COVID-19 has severely disrupted supply chains around the world with businesses of all sizes still coming to grips with border closures, trade restrictions, travel bans, and necessary public lockdowns. Despite the gradual re-opening of many economies, formidable logistical challenges remain and are likely to become the “new normal” for businesses.
World Environment Day: New partnership looks to help SMEs thrive in post-COVID-19 world
5 June 2020 On the occasion of World Environment Day, ICC and the Exponential Roadmap Initiative, with the support of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), have announced a new partnership – “The SME Exponential Race to Zero”. The partnership will explore the development of a global platform to help small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) build business resilience by providing them with concrete climate action support and financial
Guest blog: Business unusual – Adapting to change and facilitating global trade finance
2 June 2020 Ahead of the launch of the International Chamber of Commerce’s (ICC) Global Survey on Trade Finance later this month, BNY Mellon’s Global Head of Trade Finance Product and Portfolio Management, Joon Kim, explains how banks are showcasing their resilience throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, in his guest blog for the world business organization. Joon Kim, Global Head of Trade Finance Product and Portfolio Management, BNY Mellon Treasury
ICC Chair Paul Polman calls for new global roadmap to finance COVID-19 rebuild
28 May 2020 ICC Chair Paul Polman addressed a high-level United Nations event on financing for development today, underscoring the business imperative to ensure universal access to COVID-19 supplies and continued fiscal interventions to protect lives and livelihoods. Convened by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau and Prime Minister of Jamaica Andrew Holness, the virtual High-Level Event on Financing for Development in the Era of COVID-19
European chambers join Certificate of Origin Accreditation Chain amid rise in false trade documents
27 May 2020 As business associations see an uptick in fake documentation to obscure the origin of counterfeit products due to the global health crisis, Swiss, Italian and French chambers of commerce are the latest members to enter the International Certificate of Origin (CO) Accreditation Chain managed by ICC’s World Chamber Federation (WCF). International Certificate of Origin Accreditation Chain – Official mark The approval was made during an ICC WCF International CO
ICC launches AOKpass Declaration for COVID-19 Health Data Protection
25 May 2020 ICC has today launched the ICC AOKpass Declaration on COVID-19 Health Data Protection. Launched on General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) Day – in celebration of the landmark data privacy protection laws in the European Union – the Declaration signals a bold vision for a post-COVID-19 world, working together for recovery, prosperity and the upholding of health data protection as a basic human right. The Declaration expressly supports
ICC joins forces with UN and governments to improve flow of remittances
22 May 2020 ICC has today announced its support for a multistakeholder initiative calling on policymakers, regulators and remittance services providers to improve migrants’ access to remittance services and reduce transfer costs during the ongoing novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Led by the Governments of Switzerland and the United Kingdom, the call to action, Remittances in Crisis – How to Keep Them Flowing, is supported by the United Nations Capital Development Fund
Major interventions needed to backstop trade recovery, warns ICC
20 May 2020 ICC has warned that proactive government interventions will be needed to ensure the market can power an economic rebound in the wake of the COVID-19 crisis. ICC estimates a possible US$ 5 trillion of trade credit will be needed to enable a rapid recovery from the COVID-19 crisis Business body warns that trade financing gaps risk hampering a global recovery – impacting the survival chances of small businesses Despite
ICC calls for tailored financial support to Save Our SMEs
12 May 2020 ICC – the institutional representative of over 45 million businesses – has called for action to tailor financial support measures to the needs of micro-, small- and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. In an open letter to finance ministers published today, ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO said that without adequate and immediate fiscal interventions a significant proportion of MSMEs may
10 ways to use trade to Save our SMEs
7 May 2020 ICC has issued 10 recommendations for how governments can use trade to help micro-, small- and medium-sized businesses (MSMEs) weather the COVID-19 storm. Underscoring the vital role can trade play in helping small business stay afloat and driving a rapid economic recovery, the 10 ways for governments to use trade to Save our SMEs statement calls on governments to take urgent action to Save Our SMEs. It comprises recommendations for
ICC Trade Register Report reveals potential impact of COVID-19 on trade
6 May 2020 ICC Trade Register reflects on the impact of COVID-19 on global trade, while affirming trade finance’s decade-long low-risk profile. Highlights In 2019, global trade flows declined 2% from US$ 18.5 trillion to US$ 18.1 trillion, underpinning a trade finance revenue pool of US$ 46 billion. ICC Trade Register data confirms default rates from 2008-2018 are low across all products and regions surveyed. The report can be used
ICC and International SOS launch app for digital verification of COVID-19 compliance status
6 May 2020 ICC has partnered with International SOS, the world’s largest medical and security services firm, to launch the new ICC AOKpass mobile app, to provide trusted recognition of individuals’ COVID-19 compliance status. Co-developed by Singapore-based startups AOKpass and Perlin, the app will allow consumers, workers and businesses to more safely and quickly resume commercial activity in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. At all times, users maintain full control over their
ICC issues guide to help MSMEs minimise COVID-19 cyber security risks
5 May 2020 What steps can micro-, small- and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) take to protect their business from cybercriminals looking to take advantage of increased online operations as a result of COVID-19? A new ICC paper, published today, highlights the increased risk to MSMEs of cyber-attacks due to the COVID-19 crisis and sets out concrete steps that can be taken to enhance the security of their operations and workers. Published
Save lives. Save livelihoods. Save Our SMEs.
30 April 2020 As COVID-19 continues to threaten lives and livelihoods, action is needed from governments, private sector leaders and international institutions to ensure the continued viability of our MSMEs. ICC has launched a one-stop shop for policy recommendations, resources and support to Save Our SMEs (SOS). The new portal launched today as part of a global campaign to #SaveOurSMEs, which aims to keep micro-, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs)
ICC and WCO call for customs and trade facilitation action
27 April 2020 ICC and the World Customs Organization (WCO) have issued a joint statement calling for increased action on customs and trade facilitation to ensure an effective response to the COVID-19 pandemic. In a joint statement, issued today, ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO and WCO Secretary General Kunio Mikuriya say effective trade facilitation – based on international standards – will play a central role in enabling business
How intellectual property can strengthen our response to climate change and COVID-19
24 April 2020 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) commemorates World Intellectual Property (IP) Day, by recognising the role that IP plays in encouraging innovation and creativity. Taking place every 26 April, World IP raises awareness on how copyrights, patent systems, trademarks, and designs contribute to economic growth and innovation. This year, World IP Day will explore how a balanced and robust IP system can contribute to a green economy
How banks are going digital to manage COVID-19
23 April 2020 ICC has issued a collection of rapid response measures by trade finance banks to keep trade finance and trade flowing in the face of COVID-19. Trade and trade finance operations require significant back-office operations to process paper-based transactions. With shipping, in-person contact and travel all increasingly disrupted as a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic, financial institutions have been putting in place measures to enable transactions and the
ICC calls for upholding competition landscape in face of COVID-19
22 April 2020 ICC has issued a set of competition policy and enforcement measures aimed at contributing to an effective COVID-19 response. The paper was developed by the ICC Commission on Competition in line with ICC commitments to help chart an effective international response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Commending bold steps already taken by governments to put in place short-term measures to buffer shocks to the health system, the economy
Corporate Startup Stars Awards go global
16 April 2020 ICC and Mind the Bridge are organising the first global edition of the Corporate Startup Stars Awards, now in their 5th year. Applications now open ICC and the international advisory firm Mind the Bridge have announced a partnership to scale the prestigious Awards for Open Innovation – now in their 5th year – at global level. Taking place under the European Commission’s Startup Europe Partnership initiative since 2016, the
ICC welcomes G20 suspension of debt service payments
15 April 2020 ICC – the institutional representative of 45 million member companies – has welcomed a pledge from G20 Finance Ministers to suspend debt service payments for the poorest countries that request forbearance. In a communiqué issued earlier today, the world’s 20 largest economies agreed on a coordinated approach to provide immediate debt relief in the context of the COVID-19 crisis – with all bilateral official creditors participating in the initiative.
Global business, workers and civil society unite in call for emergency debt relief to save lives and livelihoods
10 April 2020 ICC, ITUC and Global Citizen call for World Bank and IMF Spring Meetings to take debt out of the COVID-19 equation. In an open letter issued today, the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), the institutional representative of over 45 million businesses, the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC), the global voice of the world’s working people, and Global Citizen, a movement of engaged citizens who use their collective
ICC dhe OBSH prezantojnë anketën botërore për biznesin, për të përmirësuar rrjedhën e informacionit mbi COVID-19.
9 prill 2020 ICC dhe OBSH prezantojnë anketën botërore për biznesin, për të përmirësuar rrjedhën e informacionit mbi COVID-19. Dhoma Ndërkombëtare e Tregtisë (ICC) dhe Organizata Botërore e Shëndetësisë (OBSH) prezantojnë një anketim në të gjithë botën për të raportuar mbi sfidat me të cilat po përballet sektori privat nga COVID-19. Si përgjigje ndaj COVID-19, ICC dhe OBSH po anketojnë sektorin privat për të mbledhur më shumë informacion mbi përgjigjet
ICC Court issues COVID-19 guidance note for arbitral proceedings
9 April 2020 The ICC International Court of Arbitration has released a Guidance Note outlining a range of measures to help mitigate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on arbitral proceedings. The Guidance Note provides support to parties, counsel and arbitral tribunals in ICC Arbitrations on the challenges currently faced in ensuring fair, timely and efficient resolution of disputes. It was prepared by a working group comprising Vice-President of the
ICC has issued a 10-point plan for G20 trade ministers to speed response to COVID-19
28 March 2020 In an open letter issued today, John W.H. Denton AO, Secretary General of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), has urged G20 trade ministers to seize the opportunity to fully utilise trade policy tools to combat the COVID-19 pandemic and limit its economic effects. In the open letter, Mr Denton wrote: “While we understand why many countries have limited their exports of medical necessities, this is not
ICC in Financial Times calls for coordinated G20 action plan
24 March 2020 Ahead of a virtual G20 Summit this week, ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO is calling on G20 leaders for ramped up international coordination in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. In a letter published in today’s edition of the Financial Times, Mr Denton calls on G20 heads of state and government to put past squabbles aside and agree on a comprehensive action plan to stem the spread
ICC, B20, WHO issue open letter to G20 leaders
23 March 2020 ICC, B20 and the World Health Organization are calling for a coordinated global response to COVID-19. In a collective call to action ahead of this week’s virtual G20 Summit, the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), the Business Twenty (B20) and the World Health Organization (WHO), have set out proposed measures to enable a coordinated global response to effectively contain the potential human and economic toll of the
Business and workers unite in call for international cooperation on COVID-19
20 March 2020 ICC and the ITUC have joined forces in a call for bold coordinated action that leaves no one behind in response to the COVID-19. Ahead of next week’s G20 leaders summit, the world’s business and workers’ organisations have joined forces to issue an open letter calling on political leaders to commit to bold coordinated action that leaves no one behind in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The
Geneva Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Services secures 2023 World Chambers Congress bid
18 March 2020 The Geneva Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Services will co-organise the 13th World Chambers Congress, the largest global gathering of chambers of commerce. Organised by the International Chamber of Commerce’s (ICC) and its World Chambers Federation (WCF), the World Chambers Congress is a unique thought leadership forum for chamber leaders and business professionals to collaborate on new projects, exchange ideas on best-practices, expand global networks and discuss the latest
COVID-19: Urgent communication to DRS community
17 March 2020 The Secretariat of the ICC International Court of Arbitration and ICC International Centre for ADR have issued an urgent communication to users, arbitrators and other neutrals. This is an urgent communication to ICC dispute resolution users, arbitrators and other neutrals in pending and future ICC Arbitration and ADR proceedings. Over the past two months and as the COVID-19 outbreak continues to unfold worldwide, the safety of our
ICC and WHO join forces to mobilise business action to curb Coronavirus spread
16 March 2020 ICC and the World Health Organization (WHO) have announced an unprecedented call to action to mobilise business in the fight against COVID-19. In a joint statement issued today, ICC and WHO announced the agreement to leverage ICC’s global network of over 45 million businesses to enable businesses worldwide to play a full and active role in preventing the spread of the COVID-19 Coronavirus outbreak. The collaboration between ICC and
ICC/NECSI publish business guidance to tackle COVID-19
13 March 2020 ICC has partnered with the New England Complex Systems Institute to develop a round-up of actions businesses can take to reduce the spread and impact of the COVID-19 outbreak. The menu of options for consideration aims to help businesses of any size, in any region, develop or implement business continuity plans depending on geographic location of the business. The free to download document, underscores the key role
ICC calls G20 leaders to respond to COVID-19
12 March 2020 The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has issued a call for G20 leaders to urgently agree on a comprehensive global action plan to address the escalating COVID-19 outbreak, and restore confidence and stability to the global economy. Following yesterday’s decision by the World Health Organization (WHO) to designate COVID-19 as a global pandemic, ICC believes that coordinated action among the world’s largest economies is urgently needed to
Digital Trade Standards Initiative launches under the umbrella of ICC
4 March 2020 ICC has launched the Digital Trade Standards Initiative (DSI) – a collaborative cross-industry effort to enable the standardisation of digital trade. The ICC Digital Trade Standards Initiative (DSI) will build on work done by various likeminded initiatives, many of which aim to digitise trade, notably through the development of open trade and technology standards to promote interoperability. The ICC DSI will promote greater economic inclusion through the
Successful finalization of the 1st edition of the Week of Integrity in Albania
28 February 2020 ICC Al