Bangladesh has appointed a United Kingdom (UK) law firm to arbitrate a dispute with Adani Group (Adani) over coal pricing for power projects. The appointment follows disagreements between the parties on the method for setting prices and the commercial terms that underpin coal supply contracts. The decision to pursue arbitration reflects a preference for neutral dispute resolution rather than litigation in domestic courts. The firm will act as an independent adjudicator of contractual interpretation and pricing mechanisms.

The law firm is expected to review project contracts, examine pricing formulas and assess whether changes to global or regional coal markets affected agreed price benchmarks. Arbitration proceedings typically involve submission of legal memoranda, expert reports and closed hearings before an arbitral tribunal. The process can result in a binding award, negotiated settlement or procedural directions that guide further negotiation. Both sides are likely to present commercial and technical evidence to support their positions.

The outcome will be closely watched by stakeholders in Bangladesh's power sector as coal remains a key fuel for electricity generation. Adani is a major developer and operator in energy and infrastructure and its engagements with host governments carry wider implications for project delivery and supply security. A fair and timely resolution may help preserve investor confidence and ensure continuity of fuel supplies to power plants. Conversely prolonged dispute resolution could introduce uncertainty into project operations and planning.

Government agencies, state utilities and private operators will monitor the arbitration timetable and any interim measures that affect coal deliveries or tariff adjustments. The arbitration result may also influence future contractual drafting and risk allocation in cross border energy arrangements. Observers said that transparent resolution of commercial disputes supports market stability and the reliable functioning of power systems, while parties prepare to adapt commercial arrangements in light of any tribunal findings.