ASTA’s arbitration process is overseen by the Arbitration Board, which is elected annually by the ASTA Membership. Standard ASTA contracts include an arbitration clause that allows for protection in the case of default on the contract. Disputes are managed by the International Center for Dispute Resolution (ICDR), but parties to ASTA arbitrations may select arbitrators from the list of arbitrators maintained by the Arbitration Board of the American Spice Trade Association. This list is available by request and at no cost to ASTA members.

Effective July 1, 2023, the Rules of the American Spice Trade Association (the “ASTA Rules”), including the rules contained in the ASTA document “A Guide to Arbitration,” have been replaced by the International Arbitration Rules of the ICDR (the “ICDR Rules”). Any contract executed on or after July 1, 2023, that references or incorporates the ASTA Rules or ASTA Arbitration Program shall be deemed to incorporate the ICDR Rules and reflect an agreement that arbitration shall be administered by the ICDR. ASTA will continue administering arbitrations under the ASTA Rules for any disputes arising under contracts executed before July 1, 2023. Any such arbitrations shall be conducted according to the ASTA document “A Guide to Arbitration.” To participate in arbitration conducted under the ASTA arbitration program, at least one party must be a member in good standing of the American Spice Trade Association.

The International Centre for Dispute Resolution (ICDR) provides conflict resolution services to businesses involved in international disputes. The ICDR is a globally recognized entity that administers arbitration, mediation, and other dispute resolution proceedings with a focus on cross-border conflicts. It offers a set of rules and procedures designed specifically for international disputes. The ICDR aims to facilitate the resolution of international business disputes through a neutral, impartial process, thereby avoiding the complexities and costs associated with litigation in national courts.