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.
General Questions
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:
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.
- 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.
