India has the potential to become a significant destination for international arbitration, provided it continues to strengthen its domestic arbitration framework, according to Cavinder Bull, Chief Executive Officer of Singapore-based law firm Drew & Napier.
Speaking in an interview with Bar & Bench, Bull observed that while India already handles a substantial volume of arbitration matters, the next step is to establish a domestic system that consistently delivers efficient, reliable, and internationally trusted outcomes. According to him, international parties are unlikely to bring disputes to India at scale unless confidence in the country's domestic arbitration mechanisms is firmly established.
Bull noted that India's arbitration market operates on a scale far larger than many international arbitration centres. However, attracting a predominantly international caseload requires more than volume. It demands strong institutions, a skilled arbitration bar, procedural efficiency, and confidence among global businesses.
Drawing from his experience representing sovereign clients, including the Government of India, Bull highlighted the growing importance of India in the international dispute resolution landscape. He pointed out that Indian parties continue to be among the most active users of arbitration institutions such as the Singapore International Arbitration Centre (SIAC).
According to Bull, India's legal profession possesses considerable strengths, particularly among leading arbitration practitioners. He praised the intellectual capabilities, language proficiency, and preparedness of Indian lawyers, while emphasizing the need to expand the pool of specialized arbitration professionals.
He further remarked that India can showcase its readiness for global arbitration by improving and promoting the effectiveness of its domestic arbitration ecosystem. A strong domestic foundation, he argued, would naturally encourage international businesses to consider India as a preferred arbitration venue.
The remarks come amid ongoing discussions within the legal community regarding India's ambition to position itself as a global dispute resolution centre. Recent industry conversations have focused on institutional arbitration, enforcement efficiency, and building confidence in India's arbitration infrastructure.