AmCham Arbitration Forum 2026: the key trends shaping the future of arbitration

What position does Peru currently hold within the Latin American arbitration ecosystem?

Peru has a robust arbitration system within the region. This is due to its modern arbitration law, enacted in 2008, which follows the UNCITRAL Model Law on International Commercial Arbitration, including the amendments made in 2006.

Furthermore, Peru has a system of specialized commercial courts and tribunals that support arbitration proceedings and are competent to hear appeals for annulment, as well as requests for recognition of foreign awards.

On the other hand, in Peru, disputes arising from public procurement are, by law, resolved through arbitration; this has led to the particular development of this mechanism domestically.

 What about the investment arbitrations?

The Peruvian State is also a relevant player in that field, having been one of the most active participants in arbitrations before ICSID and other forums that conduct this type of arbitration. This is a consequence of a policy of trade liberalization and investment promotion that Peru has followed for the last 30 years, through the signing of free trade agreements and bilateral investment protection treaties that recognize arbitration as a guarantee.

For a business leader unfamiliar with arbitration, why should they consider it a core element of their risk management and growth strategy?

The vast majority of business leaders recognize arbitration as a safeguard for investments. This is not only because it provides a neutral forum, but also because arbitration's flexibility allows it to adapt to any type of dispute, enabling more efficient resolution.

Additionally, an award issued anywhere in the world can be recognized and enforced in any other country under the 1958 New York Convention.

 What will be the main focus of the AmCham Arbitration Forum 2026?

Through the AmCham Arbitration Forum, we aim to offer the arbitration community a space for discussion on topics relevant to arbitration today, taking into account the current geopolitical context. We also intend to foster reflection on aspects that are constantly developing and evolving, such as artificial intelligence.

We have 31 speakers and have sought to include panelists from diverse legal systems and forums to enrich the discussion with different perspectives on the topics covered. All of them are top-level professionals and specialists in their respective fields, so I wouldn't venture to make any distinctions.

 How does the AmCham Arbitration Forum 2026 differ from other arbitration events in Peru?

This year, the AmCham Arbitration Forum is being jointly organized with the American Arbitration Association (AAA) and the International Centre for Dispute Resolution (ICDR) as part of the AAA's centennial celebrations.

Also, our forum is the central event of Peru Arbitration Week, a format being implemented for the first time in Peru. This week's events are being held with the participation of various transnational institutions such as ALARB, the IBA, and CEIA, as well as key players in the Peruvian arbitration community.