Arbitration table with scales of justice

Arbitration in Sri Lanka Since 1985

Sri Lanka's Oldest and Most Established Arbitration Centre

The Sri Lanka National Arbitration Centre (SLNAC) is the oldest and most established arbitration centre in Sri Lanka, incorporated under the Companies Act as a private, not-for-profit Guarantee Company. Delivering trusted commercial and international arbitration services since 1985, SLNAC was founded with a clear purpose: to provide a structured, impartial, and efficient framework for alternative dispute resolution (ADR) in Sri Lanka.

OUR LEGACY

A Heritage of Arbitration and Legal Excellence in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka's commitment to dispute resolution is deeply rooted in history, and this legacy has evolved through key legislative milestones, including the Arbitration Ordinance No. 15 of 1866 and the Arbitration Act No. 11 of 1995, which is based on the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law Model Law.

Operating within a legal framework that blends Roman-Dutch law, English commercial law principles, and regional practices, SLNAC stands at the intersection of tradition and modern arbitration standards offering a credible and internationally aligned platform for dispute resolution in Sri Lanka.

Our distinguished arbitrators includes specialists in:

  • Commercial and contract law
  • International trade and cross-border disputes
  • Construction, engineering, and infrastructure
  • Maritime, logistics, and shipping

Trusted Arbitration Expertise Across Borders

As Sri Lanka strengthens its position in global trade and investment, SLNAC continues to advance its role as a trusted centre
for regional arbitration in Sri Lanka, delivering fair, neutral, and UNCITRAL-aligned dispute resolution.

Decades of Proven Expertise

Decades of Proven Expertise

Distinguished arbitrators ensuring fairness, transparency, and procedural integrity

Legally Enforceable Awards

Legally Enforceable Awards

Recognised under the Arbitration Act No. 11 of 1995 and the New York Convention

Expedited Arbitration Procedures

Expedited Arbitration Procedures

Designed for faster, efficient resolution of time-sensitive disputes

Global Institutional Collaborations

Global Institutional Collaborations

Strategic partnerships with leading centres including HKIAC and BIAC

International Standards Alignment

International Standards Alignment

Practices guided by globally recognised arbitration frameworks

Supporting Businesses, Corporates, and Legal and other Multidisciplinary Professionals

SLNAC is a trusted partner for a wide range of stakeholders seeking efficient dispute resolution for both local and international matters.

  • Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) requiring cost-effective alternatives to litigation
  • Corporates and multinational organisations managing complex commercial disputes
  • Legal advisors and attorneys seeking credible arbitration frameworks and institutional support
Young arbitrator discussing with a client

Our Facilities

Hearing chambers

The chambers fully equipped to conduct hearings and consultations with ease

AI-powered transcription

AI-powered transcription services ensuring high-quality transcriptions

Hybrid meetings

Facilities to conduct hybrid meetings via Zoom, MS Teams, etc.

Stenographers and interpreters

Experienced stenographers and interpreters

Colombo location

Convenient location in the commercial capital of Colombo

Experienced staff

Experienced and proactive staff

World map connecting countries

Sri Lanka as a hub for arbitration, and other ADR services, leveraging its strategic location, rich legal heritage, and modern infrastructure. The island's accessibility, peaceful environment, and world-class hospitality make it an ideal venue for both regional and international arbitration.

With a conscious effort to modernize dispute resolution methods, we continue to champion the principles of fairness, confidentiality, and efficiency, fostering trust across borders and industries.

Our Arbitration and ADR Services

SLNAC offers a comprehensive range of alternative dispute resolution services in Sri Lanka,
with a focus on efficiency, confidentiality, and global best practices.

Arbitration Administration

  • UNCITRAL Arbitration Rules
  • SLNAC Expedited Arbitration Rules
  • Arbitration Rules under the Arbitration Act of Sri Lanka
  • Other ad hoc arbitration proceedings based on party-agreed rules

Administrative and Logistical Support

  • Certification of arbitration awards
  • Documentation and secretarial support
  • Hearing facilities and consultation spaces

Appointment of Arbitrators and Experts

With party consent, SLNAC facilitates qualified arbitrators and technical specialists ensuring impartiality and subject-matter expertise.

Adjudication and Dispute Boards

We support industry-specific dispute resolution mechanisms, particularly in construction and technical sectors.