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BCI Opens India's Arbitration Sector to Foreign Law Firms, CJI Gavai Hails Move

The move is designed to introduce global best practices in non-litigious arbitration, enabling Indian law firms to register abroad under reciprocal arrangements.

The CJI was delivering the keynote address at the 3rd Edition of the International Conference (PTI)
Justice Gavai

Overview

  • On May 14, 2025, the Bar Council of India implemented rules allowing foreign lawyers and law firms to handle non-litigious matters in India involving foreign or international law and arbitration.
  • Chief Justice B. R. Gavai said at a London conference that the change would import global best practices and strengthen the quality and efficiency of cross-border dispute resolution.
  • Under the new framework, foreign practitioners can take part in international commercial arbitration conducted in India without compromising the rights of domestic legal professionals.
  • A reciprocity-based model permits Indian law firms and advocates to register as foreign legal consultants in other jurisdictions while retaining their rights to practise Indian law.
  • Strict registration and renewal requirements are set to govern foreign entrants and support the expansion of arbitration centres such as DIAC, MCIA and the India Arbitration and Mediation Centre.