Organizations like the WTO offer a collaborative means of conflict resolution. There seems to be a growing trend in international business disputes to resort to a collaborative means of resolving the trade dispute. Critics of the collaborative process cite a nation's absence in an arbitration panel when that nation may be the alleged victim. When such is the case, the ruling would be made by representatives from other nations than those involved in the dispute. Proponents cite objectivity under these circumstances.
Arbitration is another alternative means of resolving disputes.
Contracts today often contain arbitration clauses for effective and timely resolutions. Arbitration is the process for settling disputes in which an objective third party hears both sides and generates a decision. Arbitration involves extensive use of intermediaries, such as chambers of commerce, trade associations, or third-country institutions. Arbitration is a popular, cost-effective means of resolving trade conflicts. Arbitration procedures are clearly defined as a part of the original contract.