A structured alternative for commercial disputes
The German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK) established the Arbitration Court (SGH) to resolve commercial disputes through binding arbitration. The SGH is open to businesses of all sizes and handles domestic and international matters in German or English.
Proceedings are managed through a secure digital platform. Parties can select arbitrators with suitable legal and sector expertise and can agree on the seat of arbitration, the language, the applicable law and other procedural matters. This makes the SGH relevant to companies engaged in India-Germany and other cross-border business relationships.
The SGH combines the dispute-resolution experience of the German Chambers of Industry and Commerce with the international reach of the German Chambers of Commerce Abroad network.
Contents
- Benefits of SGH arbitration
- Who should consider SGH arbitration
- Official SGH model clause
- Further information
Benefits of SGH arbitration
Flexibility
The parties may choose the arbitrators, the language of the proceedings, the seat and hearing location, and the applicable law. They may also agree on other procedural arrangements permitted by the SGH Arbitration Rules.
Confidentiality
Arbitration proceedings are not public. This helps protect sensitive commercial information, trade secrets and business relationships.
Efficient Procedure
The SGH uses structured timelines and digital case management. The standard procedure aims to conclude within 12 months. The fast-track procedure aims to conclude within six months.
Tribunal Composition
Unless the parties agree otherwise, disputes with an amount in controversy of up to EUR 250,000 are decided by a sole arbitrator. Higher-value disputes are decided by a tribunal of three arbitrators.
Cost Transparency
The SGH publishes rules on processing fees and arbitrator remuneration. Its <<online calculator>> provides a non-binding estimate; additional costs may arise depending on the case.
International Enforceability
Arbitral awards may be recognised and enforced internationally under the 1958 New York Convention, subject to the Convention and the law of the country where enforcement is sought.
Quality Assurance
The SGH may review the form of an award and suggest changes intended to support quality and enforceability, without affecting the arbitral tribunal's freedom to decide the dispute.
Fully Digital Process
Applications, submissions and case administration are handled through the SGH Procedure Management Platform. Hearings may be conducted by video conference, reducing travel and allowing parties to participate from different locations.
Who should consider SGH arbitration
- Companies entering cross-border sales, supply, services, construction, technology or project contracts
- Small and medium-sized enterprises seeking a structured commercial dispute-resolution process
- International companies, joint ventures and project partners
- Businesses handling technically or economically complex disputes
- Companies that require confidentiality and protection of commercially sensitive information
Official SGH Model Clause
Companies wishing to refer disputes to the SGH should consider including the official clause when negotiating the contract. The clause should not be changed except through the optional additions published by the SGH.
Before adopting an arbitration clause, the parties should obtain advice on the appropriate seat, governing law, language, number of arbitrators, scope of the clause and enforcement considerations for the transaction.
Further information
The SGH website provides the Arbitration Rules, official model clauses, a non-binding cost calculator, a conflict navigator and access to the digital filing platform.
- Visit the SGH English website
- View the official SGH model clauses
- View the SGH Arbitration Rules
- Estimate the procedural costs
- Use the conflict navigator
- Initiate arbitration proceedings
Information notice
This page provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. AHK India does not administer SGH proceedings unless and until it is formally listed as an administering AHK under the SGH Arbitration Rules. Companies should obtain independent legal advice before agreeing to or commencing arbitration.
Clarifications
