FAQ

Bangladesh International Arbitration Centre (BIAC) is the only registered arbitration institution of the country. It commenced its operations in April 2011 as a not-for-profit organization under a license from the Government of Bangladesh. The International Chamber of Commerce- Bangladesh (ICC-B), Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) and Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) are the sponsors of BIAC.

BIAC services are:

• Arbitration
• Mediation
• Training and capacity-building programs
• Membership

BIAC services are available to individuals, companies, and government entities involved in domestic or international disputes, particularly those seeking a neutral, fast, and cost-effective resolution mechanism.

To initiate arbitration, a party must submit a request for arbitration to BIAC, accompanied by the relevant arbitration agreement specifying BIAC as the arbitral institution. Upon receiving the request for arbitration, BIAC will review the documents and the agreement. The arbitration process will then proceed according to BIAC’s rules.

Some advantages include:

• Neutrality and impartiality
• Expertise in handling complex commercial disputes
• Speed and confidentiality in proceedings
• Flexibility in procedural rules
• Enforcement of arbitral awards under international treaties, including the New York Convention

Yes, awards made by the Bangladesh International Arbitration Centre (BIAC) can be enforced internationally, as Bangladesh is a signatory of the New York Convention on the Recognition and Enforcement of Foreign Arbitral Awards (1958). This convention allows arbitral awards rendered in one member country to be recognized and enforced in other member countries, subject to specific conditions. Therefore, as Bangladesh is the signatory of the New York convention, BIAC’s arbitration award can be enforced in any of the countries that are signatories to the convention.

Yes, BIAC supports remote or online arbitration proceedings using video conferencing and electronic submission of documents, which allows for more flexibility, particularly in international disputes.

BIAC maintains a panel of qualified arbitrators and mediators. To become an arbitrator or mediator, professionals must meet BIAC’s eligibility criteria and complete the required training and accreditation processes. Interested individuals can apply directly through the BIAC website.

Yes, BIAC offers training programs, workshops, and certifications in arbitration, mediation, and dispute resolution. These programs are designed to build capacity and enhance the skills of practitioners and professionals in the field.

No. Unless there is an arbitration clause in the contract or parties have a post-dispute agreement to refer the dispute to arbitration at BIAC or arbitration in accordance with the BIAC Rules, BIAC will not be able to administer the arbitration.

Any dispute or difference arising out or in connection with this contract shall first be referred to the Bangladesh International Arbitration Centre (BIAC) for settlement through mediation in accordance with BIAC Mediation Rules. If a settlement cannot be reached within sixty (60) days following the appointment of Mediator(s) then such dispute or difference shall be referred to BIAC within sixty (60) days to be finally settled under the Rules of Arbitration of the Bangladesh International Arbitration Centre (BIAC) , by one or more arbitrators appointed in accordance with the said Rules.

BIAC membership allows individuals, law firms, businesses, or institutions to be recognized as part of the BIAC community and gain access to various benefits related to dispute resolution services, including arbitration, mediation and training.

BIAC membership provides several benefits, including:

• Access to BIAC’s arbitration and mediation services
• Participation in BIAC events, workshops, and training programs
• Networking opportunities with professionals in the field of dispute resolution
• Eligibility to be appointed as an arbitrator or mediator on BIAC’s panels
• Updates on the latest developments in arbitration and dispute resolution

To become a member of BIAC, you need to fill out a membership application form available on the BIAC website. After submitting the form, BIAC will review your application and, if eligible, grant membership.

Yes, BIAC offers various types of memberships depending on the applicant’s profile:

• Individual Membership: For professionals who wish to participate in arbitration, mediation, and other dispute resolution activities.
• Corporate Membership: For businesses or organizations seeking to benefit from BIAC’s services and networking opportunities.
• Student Membership: Open to students enrolled in undergraduate or postgraduate programs related to law, business, international relations, or dispute resolution.

The membership fee depends on the type of membership (individual, corporate, or student). BIAC’s website provides a detailed fee structure for each category.

BIAC membership is typically valid for one year, after which it must be renewed.

BIAC membership is open to both domestic and international individuals, businesses, and institutions involved in arbitration, mediation, and dispute resolution.

To renew your BIAC membership, simply follow the renewal process outlined on the BIAC website or contact the membership department for assistance.