Uruguay Sets Up Task Force for ICC Arbitration Against Cardama Shipyard
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TL;DR
- Uruguay's presidency forms a special group to coordinate its defense.
- The dispute concerns a rescinded OPV ship purchase from Spain's Cardama shipyard.
- Cardama initiated arbitration at the ICC following the government's contract termination.
- Jorge Díaz will lead the group, joined by lawyers from key ministries.
Overview
The Presidency of Uruguay has created a government working group to defend the state in international arbitration proceedings initiated by Spain-based Francisco Cardama SA. The dispute follows the termination of a contract for two offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) by the Uruguayan government, now being addressed before the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) arbitration tribunal.
What Happened
Uruguay's Presidency signed a resolution on 21 May 2026 to form a working group to coordinate the defense in arbitration proceedings against Cardama shipyard.
The arbitration was filed by Cardama at the Court of Arbitration of the International Chamber of Commerce over the government's termination of a contract for the purchase of two OPVs.
The group will be headed by the prosecretary of the Presidency, Jorge Díaz, and will include legal advisers from the Presidency as well as lawyers from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Economy and Finance, and National Defense.
The group's mandate is to gather relevant information and undertake necessary actions to ensure Uruguay's effective defense in the case.
Context
Cardama shipyard is based in Spain and had an agreement with the Uruguayan government for supplying two offshore patrol vessels.
The contract termination occurred under the administration of Yamandú Orsi. Following this decision, Cardama sought recourse through ICC arbitration, triggering Uruguay's response to organize its defense.
The report does not specify the contract value or further details about the underlying dispute.
Why It Matters
- The creation of a dedicated working group indicates the high priority Uruguay places on a coordinated legal strategy in this international dispute.
- The dispute involves state procurement in the defense sector and cross-border contractual arbitration before the ICC, which may affect Uruguay's future government contracting and international legal exposure.