Finland is well on track to becoming a major hub of international business dispute resolution. This growth is being fed by Finland’s reputation for neutrality and efficiency. The Asian market also offers new potential.
27.6.2018
International Dispute Resolution on the Rise in Finland
According to the statistics of the Finland Chamber of Commerce, the number of international arbitration proceedings has increased in Finland in 2016–2017 by more than one-third compared to the two preceding years.
Castrén & Snellman’s Managing Partner Sakari Lukinmaa estimates that there is still potential for growth in the export market for dispute resolutions. Currently, half of Castrén & Snellman’s turnover comes from international assignments.
‘Finland’s good image also contributes to the growth of the dispute market. In arbitration proceedings, the parties to the dispute can freely choose the venue for and the legislation applied to the proceedings. When parties negotiate where a dispute should be resolved, Finland and the Finnish Arbitration Act are currently strong contenders’, says Lukinmaa.
This good position is a result of the Finnish court system being arbitration friendly. The attractiveness of Finnish law as an export is increased by our well-functioning legislative framework. Our educational level is high and we have skilled arbitrators and counsel for international disputes.
‘The Finnish dispute resolution method has earned a good reputation in the world. Our way of resolving matters is unassuming, efficient and solution-oriented’, says Partner Anders Forss who is specialised in dispute resolutions.
The Cold War Elevated Sweden, Asia Could Now Elevate Finland
During the Cold War, Sweden became a popular venue for arbitration proceedings. Sweden was considered a neutral country between the Soviet Union and the USA.
Finland may be the new bridge in today’s global political climate, as it occupies a strong position between the East and the West and the Asian economy is growing. Our assets are stability, safety and a lack of corruption.
However, Finland’s position could be even better if the Finnish Arbitration Act was reformed to correspond to the UN Model Law. In addition, Lukinmaa is of the opinion that active cooperation between different actors is what we now need.
‘A concerted push by the Finnish business life and attorneys could solidify Finland’s position as a dispute resolution country’, says Lukinmaa.
Latest news
Latest references
Nala Renewables – Development, acquisition and financing of battery energy storage system (BESS) project
We advised Nala Renewables on the Finnish law aspects of the development, acquisition and financing of its battery energy storage system (BESS) project in Vuolijoki, Finland. The project comprises a 125 MW / 250 MWh battery energy storage system. Our advice extended beyond financing to the transaction’s legal due diligence and the acquisition of the project company. We also advised on key project contracts and financing documentation for the project finance facilities provided by Coöperatieve Rabobank U.A. The project is part of Nala Renewables’ growing portfolio of battery storage assets in Finland and the wider Nordic region, supporting the integration of renewable energy and contributing to the flexibility and stability of the Finnish electricity grid.
Case published 3.11.2026
Foundation Clinic – Funding Round
We advised Foundation Clinic in connection with its funding round backed by a group of prominent Finnish technology entrepreneurs and investors, including founders behind Supercell and Wolt. Foundation Clinic is a Finnish healthcare company developing a new approach to private healthcare focused on preventive, data-driven and continuous care. The company aims to combine comprehensive health data with ongoing medical care to identify and address health risks at an early stage.
Case published 29.10.2026
Delta Capacity – Project financing of two battery energy storage systems (BESS)
We advised Delta Capacity AG in a project financing of two battery energy storage systems (BESS). The financed projects are among the largest BESS developments in Finland to enter construction with 250 MW / 600 MWh combined capacity. The financing was provided by Société Générale with support from Finnvera. Construction of both projects, located in Lapinlahti and Teuva, has already begun and the commercial operations are targeted to commence in late 2027 with partial tolling agreements already in place for both assets. The project in Lapinlahti is executed in partnership with Covenergo, while the project in Teuva is executed in partnership with Strioga Family Foundation. Delta Capacity is a Swiss developer of utility-scale battery storage systems. The projects strengthen Delta Capacity’s growing Nordic portfolio and support the flexibility of Finland’s electricity system by adding energy storage capacity, enabling production optimization as well as participation in electricity markets and reserve services.
Case published 28.10.2026
Martela Corporation – Directed share issue and combination of share series
We acted as legal adviser to Martela Corporation in its directed share issue, through which Martela raised gross proceeds of approximately EUR 7.2 million to strengthen the company’s financial position and liquidity and to create headroom for continuing the necessary development and efficiency measures. In connection with the directed share issue, Martela’s unlisted series K shares, which carried greater voting rights, were combined with its listed series A shares. Following the combination, the company has only one share series, which is traded on the regulated market maintained by Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd, with each share carrying one vote and otherwise identical rights. Martela is a Nordic leader specialising in user-centric working and learning environments. With over 80 years of experience, Martela creates the best places to work and offers its customers the Martela Lifecycle solutions which combine furniture and related services into a seamless whole.
Case published 27.10.2026