Before you file: You must have a written arbitration agreement (or mediation agreement) with the other party that provides for CAC administration. If your contract names the CAC as the administering institution, you are ready to proceed. If you are unsure whether your contract supports a CAC filing, contact the Registrar for guidance before submitting.
File your Notice of Arbitration using the online form, by email, or in hard copy. Include party details, arbitration agreement, dispute description, and relief sought.
The Registrar acknowledges receipt within 48 hours and issues a Registration Number. Payment of the Registration Fee confirms the CAC's administration.
The Registrar manages the appointment of the arbitral tribunal. Default: sole arbitrator under USD 500,000; three-member tribunal for larger matters.
The tribunal convenes a preliminary meeting to agree the procedural timetable. Target: first hearing within 60 days for standard proceedings.
The tribunal conducts the hearing and delivers a binding written award. The CAC maintains a copy in its confidential registry.
All fields are required. The Registrar responds within 48 hours. All submissions are strictly confidential.
All submissions are treated as strictly confidential. No information about the existence or content of any proceedings is disclosed without consent.
There is no legal requirement to be represented by a lawyer when filing with the CAC. However, for complex commercial disputes, legal advice before filing is strongly recommended. The CAC cannot provide legal advice to any party.
Where your contract contains a binding arbitration agreement naming the CAC, the other party is obliged to participate. The CAC will proceed in the absence of the Respondent if they fail to engage after proper notice. In mediation, participation is voluntary.
The default language of CAC proceedings is English, reflecting the language of most Zimbabwean commercial contracts. Parties may agree to conduct proceedings in another language. Translation and interpretation services are available.
The CAC publishes a transparent fee schedule on the Rules & Fees page. Fees are based on the amount in dispute and cover registration and administration. Arbitrator fees are billed separately.
Under the Standard Track, most cases are resolved within six to twelve months from filing to award. Under the Expedited Rules (disputes under USD 50,000), the target is a final award within 60 days. Emergency arbitrator relief can be obtained within 48 hours.
Yes. Zimbabwe is a signatory to the New York Convention on the Recognition and Enforcement of Foreign Arbitral Awards. CAC awards may be enforced in over 170 signatory states by registration with the relevant national court.