+94 (0) 11 2 688 263

General Questions

SLNAC is Sri Lanka's longest-standing institution for alternative dispute resolution in Sri Lanka offering arbitration, adjudication, and other Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR) services to resolve conflicts efficiently and professionally. With a mission to uphold neutrality, fairness, and global. standards, SLNAC serves local and international parties seeking out-of-court solutions.

Arbitration is a private and legally binding process where disputes are resolved by impartial arbitrators outside of court. It is typically faster, confidential, and more cost-effective than litigation.

SLNAC handles disputes across industries, including:

Commercial contracts
Construction and infrastructure
Intellectual property
Employment matters
Maritime and shipping disputes

SLNAC offers several advantages:

A panel of qualified arbitrators with expertise in diverse fields
Cost-effective solutions tailored for businesses in the South Asian region
Expedited arbitration options aligned with UNCITRAL rules
A neutral and confidential setting with adherence to international standards
Convenient access to arbitration facilities in the region

SLNAC is uniquely positioned as a cost-effective yet globally aligned centre for arbitration in South Asia. SLNAC offers:

Competitive fee structures suited for regional businesses
Expertise in handling Sri Lankan and cross-border disputes
Proximity and accessibility for South Asian parties
A focus on expedited resolutions without compromising quality

Process and Procedures

The arbitration process at SLNAC typically includes:

Filing a request for arbitration
Selection of arbitrators by the Parties or from SLNAC’s panel
Preliminary hearings and procedural decisions
Evidence presentation and hearings
Issuance of a legally binding arbitration award

Expedited arbitration is designed for time-sensitive disputes, offering a faster resolution process without sacrificing fairness or quality. At SLNAC, the expedited rules adhere closely to the UNCITRAL Expedited rules for speedy resolution of disputes , with:

Streamlined case management
Shorter timelines for evidence submission and hearings
Final awards issued within a specified period

Legal representation is optional but often beneficial, especially in complex cases. SLNAC ensures the process is user-friendly, even for non-legal professionals.

Post-Arbitration

Yes, SLNAC’s arbitration awards are legally binding and enforceable under Sri Lankan law and international conventions like the New York Convention.

Arbitration awards are final and binding. Appeals can be filed only within a very limited period and only on the specific grounds set out in Section 32 of the Arbitration Act No.11 of 1995.

SLNAC maintains fairness through:

Transparent procedures
Impartial dispute resolution facilitation
Adherence to international arbitration standards

Practical Information

Costs typically include centre charges for hearings, arbitrator fees and administrative charges. SLNAC provides a cost-effective structure for both local and international disputes.

The duration depends on the complexity of the case, but expedited arbitration is often resolved within six months to one year.

Arbitrations can be conducted in English or Sinhala. Translation services may be arranged for other languages.

You can submit a request for arbitration or adjudication to the SLNAC or contact the center directly for guidance.