The fact that a record number of maritime disputes required the appointment of arbitrators on London Maritime Arbitrators Association terms in 2025 could be seen as evidence that we don’t get along all that well.   But it’s also clear evidence of the thriving maritime economy and the lead role played by the LMAA in the resolution of maritime disputes wherever in the world they arise.

The UK maritime community is rightly proud of the reputation of English shipping law, built up over a great many generations.

There were a total of 3,469 appointments on LMAA Terms in 2025 and an estimated 2,015 references, a record number, and an increase of 25% on 2024.  LMAA arbitrators made a total of 563 awards in 2025, 83 of these after oral hearings.

The full statistics of the London Maritime Arbitration Association for arbitrations conducted on LMAA Terms and Procedures in 2025 are available here: https://lmaa.london/statistics-of-appointments-awards/

Singapore and HK, probably the closest competitors, have about 10% of the LMAA volume of cases and awards.

Bravo to the LMAA and the English shipping law system and community for staying very much at the top of their game. The LMAA President, Jon Elvey, also plays a mean bit of jazz piano and is available for weddings, barmitzvahs and maritime disputes.