What Clients Have Observed

Challenge

An exclusive distribution agreement between a Singapore importer and a Southeast Asian manufacturer had broken down following a change in pricing terms. Both parties had ceased performing, and the relationship had deteriorated over several months of written correspondence.

Solution

Batik Partners facilitated a two-session mediation that allowed each side to articulate their commercial position without the adversarial dynamic of formal proceedings. A revised pricing formula and transition arrangement were negotiated.

Outcome

Signed settlement agreement within five weeks. The distribution relationship resumed on revised terms, avoiding the cost and disruption of SIAC arbitration proceedings that had been initiated but not yet substantially progressed.

Challenge

A minority shareholder in a joint venture alleged that the majority partner had engaged in conduct that diluted their interest in breach of the shareholders' agreement, which contained an ICC arbitration clause.

Solution

Batik Partners managed the full arbitration process — from filing the request for arbitration through to the oral hearing. Written submissions covered both the liability and quantum aspects of the dispute.

Outcome

An award was issued in favour of the minority shareholder. The award was subsequently enforced in the jurisdiction where the majority partner held its assets, using New York Convention procedures.

Challenge

A regional sales agent had not been paid commission on a series of transactions the principal claimed fell outside the scope of the agency agreement. Neither party wanted formal proceedings, but direct negotiations had broken down.

Solution

Batik Partners was engaged to prepare a negotiation strategy for the agent and to attend a facilitated negotiation session with the principal's representatives. A written proposal was prepared in advance of the session.

Outcome

Agreement reached in a single session, with the principal accepting a partial commission payment and the agent agreeing to a revised scope definition going forward. Matter resolved in under three weeks without formal proceedings.