All arbitrators are designated by CACPH and their
names are made known to the parties. Arbitrators may not have any connection
with the matter in dispute - if they find that they do then they must withdraw
unless the parties agree that they can continue.
For quality arbitrations and appeals:
three arbitrators, appointed by the board of directors.
For technical arbitrations: in the first
instance three arbitrators and on appeal five, again appointed by the CACPH
board.
Parties to a dispute may challenge arbitrators only
on grounds which arose, or became apparent, after they were appointed and must
do so within three days of the event, failing which the panel shall stand as
nominated. All arbitration hearings are private but in technical arbitrations
the parties may be present or may be represented by legal counsel. They can also
be represented by a member of the coffee trade but only with the prior approval
of the panel.