In today’s globalized world of trade and commerce, disputes are inevitable. One prominent organization that has been instrumental in handling such disputes in the grain and feed trade is the Grain and Feed Trade Association, commonly known as Gafta. Gafta arbitration has been a pillar of support for many businesses in resolving their conflicts.
What is Gafta Arbitration?
Gafta arbitration is a dispute resolution process provided by the Grain and Feed Trade Association. Gafta, as an international trade association, provides a range of services to its members, including contract creation, trade policy, events, training, and most notably, arbitration services.
Arbitration under Gafta involves resolving disputes between parties involved in the grain and feed trade industry. The process is guided by the Gafta Arbitration Rules, which detail the procedures and guidelines for the arbitration process.
Gafta Arbitration Categories
Gafta arbitration is divided into three primary categories:
- Gafta Qualified Arbitrator under Rule number 125 and 126
- Gafta Qualified Arbitrator under Rule number 127
- Gafta Qualified Mediator under Rule number 128
Each category has its unique set of rules and guidelines which are meticulously designed to handle specific types of arbitration cases.
Becoming a Gafta Qualified Arbitrator
To become a Gafta Qualified Arbitrator, a Gafta member must adhere to the General Eligibility and Qualification criteria as stipulated in the Rules and Code of Conduct for Qualified Arbitrators and Qualified Mediators.
Appointment of Arbitrators
Gafta appoints arbitrators under several circumstances, such as when there is agreement on a sole arbitrator, when the claimant requests an arbitrator, or when the respondent has not appointed one. Gafta also appoints a chairman for a first-tier tribunal and selects a panel of arbitrators for a second-tier appeal board.
The appointment process involves several steps, including recommendation by the Arbitration Team, approval by the Director General of Gafta, and finally, approval by Gafta’s Appointment Panel.
Selection Criteria for Arbitrators
Gafta does not operate on a rota system and appoints arbitrators on a case by case basis. Several factors are taken into consideration, such as avoiding conflicts of interest, ensuring impartiality, and ensuring that the arbitrator has the required experience to arbitrate the case effectively.