Iain SANDFORD

Iain Sandford has almost 30 years of experience in the WTO system, ranging from working as a capital-based government official in New Zealand, a trade diplomat, a lawyer in the WTO Secretariat and as counsel to a wide variety of WTO Members. Iain chairs the International Bar Association’s Committee on Trade in Legal Services and is a strong believer in the importance of multilateral solutions to global challenges.

After more than a decade as a partner in large US law firms, Iain established an independent practice – Iain Sandford Legal & Dispute Resolution – in early 2026.  Iain works as legal counsel, and also as a neutral arbitrator or mediator in connection with disputes.  

In his work as legal counsel, Iain’s clients include States, multinational enterprises and non-governmental organizations.  He works on issues ranging from treaty implementation, through to responsible business conduct and compliance with sanctions regimes. Iain has represented sovereign clients in disputes – including dozens of matters in the WTO, as well as proceedings before a variety of international tribunals ranging from investment arbitration to proceedings under Annex VII of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.  

As an arbitrator and mediator, Iain brings experience as a neutral in commercial dispute resolution and also as a WTO dispute settlement panelist. He is a member of the Professional Conduct Committee of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators.   

Iain also has a deep commitment to sustainable development. Iain has undertaken law reform, treaty implementation and technical assistance projects for governments and regional organizations, including the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Secretariat, the Commission of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States, and the Gulf Cooperation Council.