Navigating Arbitration of Cross-Border Disputes in the Consumer Products & Retail Industry

Consumer products and retail companies depend on cross-border relationships: manufacturing and sourcing agreements, distribution and licensing arrangements, logistics providers, joint ventures, and international expansion. When those relationships break down, the dispute resolution clause often determines how quickly, how privately, and how effectively a company can protect its interests. This session will introduce the core features of international arbitration, explain why it is (and should be) used for cross-border commercial disputes, and highlight recent developments and trends shaping how disputes in the sector are being resolved.

The session will specifically aim to address:

• How to evaluate arbitration as a dispute resolution option for your cross-border contracts, including its advantages, limitations, and how it compares to litigation.
• How to approach the key drafting choices in an arbitration clause (seat, institution, governing law, and procedural features) so your agreements work when you need them most.
• What recent trends mean for your business, and how to anticipate and manage dispute risk across your supply chain and international relationships.