SIAC Rules 2025: A New Frontier in Interim Remedies?

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Authored by James Barratt, Kimberley Taieb, and Iona Gilby*, this article, published by PLC Magazine, discusses the key updates in the Singapore International Arbitration Centre’s (SIAC) 2025 Arbitration Rules, which came into effect on 1 January 2025. These revisions aim to improve transparency, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness in arbitration. A major innovation is the introduction of protective preliminary orders that allow emergency arbitrators to issue ex parte interim relief, a feature not explicitly provided by other major arbitration institutions.

The authors explore the practical implications of these provisions, particularly in comparison to court-ordered relief, and the potential challenges regarding enforceability. Other notable updates include streamlined and expedited procedures, enhanced tribunal powers for preliminary determinations, co-ordinated proceedings for related arbitrations, and increased emphasis on mediation. Additionally, new disclosure requirements for third-party funding have been introduced. The article concludes that while the impact of these changes remains to be seen, they represent a significant development in international arbitration.

This article first appeared in the March 2025 issue of PLC Magazine.