Hot Topics
Introduction
Since 1928, the ISF Trade Rules have underpinned thousands of seed contracts worldwide. Today, ISF’s dispute resolution framework, including mediation, conciliation and arbitration, is managed by the ISF Chamber of Arbitration. It also covers disputes involving intellectual property and Essentially Derived Varieties (EDVs).
This three-part masterclass series takes you from the contract to the dispute, in practical terms, with interactive discussions with esteemed experts from the field.
Who should participate?
These masterclasses are exclusive to ISF members. They are designed for anyone whose work touches seed contracts, disputes, or variety protection, including:
- Legal counsel and contract managers
- Commercial and sales teams
- Breeders and variety protection specialists
- Seed company leadership and business owners
Save the Date
Speakers and more details will be shared soon. In the meantime, we invite interested participants to register via the links below and save the date. If you have questions, please contact arbitration@worldseed.org.
Masterclass Program
Masterclass 1
ISF Trade Rules: You’re signing up to them, but do you know what that means?
Date: Thursday, 4 February 2027, 11:00-12:30 CEST
About the session:
Thousands of seed contracts refer to the ISF Trade Rules. This masterclass explains what that reference means in practice, and what you should look out for before signing.
Masterclass 2
When a Seed Contract Goes Wrong: Resolving Disputes with ISF
Date: Thursday, 11 February 2027, 11:00-12:30 CEST
About the session:
What happens when a commercial relationship breaks down? Explore the practical options available under the ISF dispute resolution framework, from direct settlement and mediation to arbitration.
Masterclass 3
Intellectual Property & EDV Disputes: From Suspicion to Resolution
Date: Thursday, 18 Februaru 2027, 11:00–12:30 CEST
About the session:
So you suspect that another variety may be an Essentially Derived Variety? Learn how EDV claims are assessed, what evidence matters, how genetic similarity thresholds fit into the process, and how breeders can resolve EDV disputes, including through ISF arbitration.