The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has recently released the Toolkit for Arbitrators in Expedited Procedures, as part of its latest trio of publications on Expedited Procedures (EP), which includes:
- A report reviewing eight years of application of the EP
- A practical Toolkit for arbitrators
- A Factsheet presenting statistics on the effectiveness of EP from 2017–2024
This Toolkit is a hands-on practical guide specifically designed for arbitrators acting in cases conducted under expedited procedures. It aims to help arbitrators:
- Manage cases efficiently within very tight timelines
- Navigate key procedural junctures in EP proceedings
- Strike the right balance between speed, cost-efficiency, and procedural fairness
Key takeaway from the ICC Report and Toolkit
The ICC publications clearly demonstrate that Expedited Procedures do not mean “cutting corners.” On the contrary, arbitration conducted under EP still includes all essential procedural steps, such as:
- Case Management Conference (CMC)
- Procedural Order No.1 (PO1)
- Procedural mechanisms safeguarding the parties’ right to be heard and to present their case
These elements play a crucial role in enabling arbitrators to conduct expedited proceedings while fully preserving fairness and due process.
According to the 2025 International Arbitration Survey by Queen Mary University of London in partnership with White & Case, 50% of respondents identified expedited arbitration procedures as the most effective mechanism for enhancing efficiency.
This finding suggests that arbitral institutions in Vietnam should now seriously consider introducing or further refining their Expedited Procedures, as they represent a key factor in enhancing the attractiveness, competitiveness, and business-friendliness of arbitration compared to other dispute resolution mechanisms.
References:
ICC publications on Expedited Procedures:
https://iccwbo.org/news-publications/arbitration-adr-rules-and-tools/expedited-procedure-provisions/
