Arbitration rules play a vital role in the promotion of an international arbitration institution. They also serve as one of the major attractions to potential arbitration users of that institution's service. In 2012, China International Economic and Trade Arbitration Commission (CIETAC) has again effected a substantial revision of its arbitration rules, which came into force on 1 May 2012. This article discusses the main changes made this time to the CIETAC Rules, which touch upon a number of important issues including consolidation of arbitrations, the appointment of arbitrators, tribunal-ordered interim measures, the seat of CIETAC arbitration, exchange and service of documents, arb-med-arb approach, suspension and termination of arbitral proceedings, etc. Practical advice relating to those changes has also been provided where appropriate.
Journal of International Arbitration