The Hochiminh City International Construction Arbitration Conference (HICAC) 2023 – the first of its kind in Vietnam – chose complex construction arbitration as its theme to stimulate interest and build knowledge in this niche area.
Held at Le Méridien Saigon on April 17, 2023, it was organised by the Society of Construction Law – Viet Nam (SCLVN) and International Law Faculty – HCMC University of Law. Although total attendance was relatively small at 140 people, 34 per cent were from overseas, mainly from the region and Singapore in particular.
“The conference brought together professionals from the construction industry, experts, lawyers, arbitrators and academics to discuss the latest trends, practices and developments in construction arbitration,” said SCLVN chair Trung Nguyen.
Organisers managed to invite leading arbitrators, lawyers and academics as speakers and moderators at plenary and breakout sessions, while informal networking among attendees continued during the river cruise dinner.
SCLVN noted that as a developing country, Vietnam has seen a significant increase in construction activities, leading also to an increase in construction disputes. The complexity of construction projects and the involvement of multiple parties often results in disputes arising from various issues.
Trung noted: “As Vietnam continues to experience significant growth in construction activities, this conference provided a timely platform for potential arbitration users in Vietnam and the region to learn from the international arbitrators and experts’ experiences and insights into construction arbitration.”
Acknowledging challenges in organising its first high-level international conference, Trung said these were mainly in securing sponsors and speakers, such as for the panel on digital technology in international construction arbitration. Some participants also faced problems with online registration and payment.
Regardless, both organisers and attendees rated the venue highly, such as the meeting facilities at Le Méridien Saigon, and the professionalism and quality of service of the staff.
Amanda Lees, international arbitration partner at King & Wood Mallesons and a panellist, complimented SCLVN’s efforts. “We had a chance to elaborate on some of the issues identified in the keynote speech and discuss the importance of proactive case management by tribunals in Asian arbitrations.”
The next legal event is Vietnam ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution) Week 2023, which will be held simultaneously in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City from May 8-12, 2023.
