Foreign Lawyers Allowed in International Arbitration: A Bold Step for Indian Legal System.

On 14 May 2025, the Bar Council of India (BCI) made a big decision to allow foreign lawyers and law firms to take part in non-litigation legal work and international arbitration in India.

This was welcomed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai, who spoke about its benefits at a major legal event in London.

🔹 What Does the New Rule Say?

According to BCI's notification:

✅ Foreign lawyers can:

• Give advice on foreign and international laws

• Handle international arbitration cases in India

❌ But they cannot:

• Represent anyone in Indian courts

• Work on Indian law-based matters

This keeps Indian lawyers’ rights protected, while also making space for global experience.

🔹 What Did CJI BR Gavai Say?

CJI Gavai praised the BCI move. He said this will:

• Improve the quality of arbitration in India

• Help India bring in world-class legal practices

• Attract more international cases to India

“It’s a positive step that supports both global cooperation and local legal professionals,” he said.

🔹 India’s Arbitration Growth

India is serious about becoming a global leader in arbitration. The country now has several modern centres like:

🏛️ Delhi International Arbitration Centre (DIAC)🏛️ Mumbai Centre for International Arbitration (MCIA)🏛️ India Arbitration and Mediation Centre (IAMC), Hyderabad🏛️ India International Arbitration Centre (IIAC), New Delhi

These centres help businesses and people solve legal disputes without going to regular courts.

🔹 Global Opportunities for Indian Lawyers

CJI Gavai also said that Indian lawyers have the skills to become international arbitrators.

He encouraged lawyers to:

• Learn more about international arbitration laws

• Join global legal forums

• Take part in cross-border legal work

🔹 A Strong Bond with the UK

CJI said India and the UK share a lot in legal thinking. With more business and legal ties growing, both countries can:

• Learn from each other

• Improve their arbitration systems

• Make arbitration faster and easier

🔹 Conclusion

India is now opening up its legal system to the world—but with careful rules. This will help the country grow as a centre for global arbitration, while protecting the interests of Indian lawyers.

It’s a great time for lawyers, law firms, and businesses to look at India as a trusted destination for resolving international legal disputes.