Spanish translation of LCIA rules signals push to promote court across globe

The translation of the LCIA rules, which were updated in 2020, marks the first time that they have been made available in a language other than English. The updated rules include changes to the format of arbitral hearings and awards, the expedition of proceedings, consolidation and other amendments reflecting global trends and developments including the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on arbitral practice.

A spokesperson for the LCIA said the translation was intended to assist the Court’s Spanish speaking users and to enhance the consistent application of the LCIA Rules also in LCIA arbitrations in Spanish language. They added: “The LCIA Secretariat has been administering cases in Spanish language for a number of years with a team of native Spanish speaking counsel. The LCIA has a long-term commitment to keep serving the Spanish speaking arbitral community in Spanish.”

Rob Wilkins of Pinsent Masons said: “The LCIA is one of the world’s leading international institutions for commercial dispute resolution and its arbitration rules are frequently included in dispute resolution provisions of contracts around the globe. The international nature of the LCIA’s services is reflected in the fact that, typically, over 80% of parties in pending LCIA cases are not of English nationality.”

“While English is often the language of business around the world, Spanish is the third most spoken language and this represents a significant step for the LCIA in widening its reach into Spanish speaking countries including the massive Latin American market,” Wilkins said.

He added: “The translation is likely to be of interest to parties operating in Spain and other Spanish speaking countries. The ICC rules, the most widely used international arbitration rules, are already available in 19 languages including Spanish, and this appears to be a sign that the LCIA is ready to embark on a similar course to promote the use of the LCIA Rules around the world.”