New ICC Arbitration Rules: Key Changes And Practical Implications

The new version of the Rules of Arbitration of the International Chamber of Commerce (“ICC”) entered into force on June 1, 2026 and applies to arbitral proceedings commenced on or after that date. The amendments do not represent a break from the previous framework, but rather reflect a clear trend in international arbitration: the pursuit of more efficient, predictable and transparent proceedings. Among the new features, we highlight the following.

1. Expedited Procedure Provisions: The Expedited Procedure Provisions shall, as a rule, automatically apply to disputes of up to USD 4 million, increasing the previous threshold of USD 3 million (Appendix V, Article 1(3)). Under this procedure, the Court may appoint a sole arbitrator even if the arbitration agreement provides otherwise, and the arbitral award must be rendered within six months from the initial case management conference (Appendix V, Articles 2(1) and 4).