Rules of Arbitration of the International Commerce in Hong Kong

Effective as of 2026

Download Complete Rules Document (PDF)

The Rules of Arbitration of the International Commerce in Hong Kong (the "Rules") govern the conduct of arbitrations administered by the Institute of Arbitration of the International Commerce in Hong Kong (the "Institute").

Key Features of the Rules

  • Expedited Procedure: Available for disputes below certain thresholds to ensure faster resolution
  • Emergency Arbitrator: Provision for urgent interim measures before the constitution of the arbitral tribunal
  • Case Management: Techniques for controlling time and cost while maintaining fairness
  • Transparency: Clear procedures and fee structures
  • Enforceability: Awards made in accordance with the Rules are designed to be enforceable under international conventions

Standard Arbitration Clause

All disputes arising out of or in connection with the present contract shall be finally settled under the Rules of Arbitration of the International Commerce in Hong Kong by one or more arbitrators appointed in accordance with the said Rules in Hong Kong.

Parties are free to adapt the clause to their particular circumstances, including specifying the number of arbitrators, the language of the arbitration, and the law applicable to the merits.

Expedited Procedure

The Rules provide for an expedited procedure in lower-value cases. The expedited procedure applies automatically when:

  • The amount in dispute does not exceed US$ 1,000,000 (for agreements concluded on or after 1 January 2025 and before 1 January 2030), or
  • The amount in dispute does not exceed US$ 2,000,000 (for agreements concluded on or after 1 January 2030)

Parties may also agree to apply the expedited procedure regardless of the amount in dispute.

Emergency Arbitrator

A party may apply for emergency measures before the constitution of the arbitral tribunal. The President of the Institute will appoint an emergency arbitrator within as short a time as possible, normally within two days from receipt of the application.

The emergency arbitrator's order shall be made no later than 15 days from the date on which the file was transmitted to the emergency arbitrator.

Full Rules Document

The complete Rules of Arbitration 2026, including all articles, appendices, and administrative provisions, are available in the official document. The Rules include:

  • General provisions and commencement of arbitration
  • Constitution of the arbitral tribunal
  • Arbitral proceedings
  • Awards and decisions
  • Costs
  • Miscellaneous provisions
  • Appendices covering costs, fees, emergency arbitrator rules, expedited procedure rules, and case management techniques

Note: For the complete and official text of the Rules, please download the Rules of IAIC 2026 document. This page provides an overview of key provisions.

Download Rules of IAIC 2026 (PDF)