There are three methods for resolving investment-related conflicts.
- The judicial system
- Domestic arbitration
- International arbitration
The third option is only available to foreign investors whose initial contract with the Government stipulates that any dispute will be resolved through international arbitration.
The judicial system divides the country into regions with a court of first instance. There are also appeal bodies at the Supreme Court and the Constitutional Court.
São Tomé and Principie is a member of the International Center for the Resolution of Investment Disputes (ICSID) and the provisions of the Convention are applicable to disputes involving São Tomé and Principie or nationals of the country.
International treaties
- São Tomé and Príncipe signed a bilateral investment treaty with Portugal that has been in force since 1977. The treaty adopted the principles of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade(GTT), with regard to National treatment and most favored nation status.
- There is also a double taxation treaty with Portugal. Agreement on Mutual Protection of Investments with Portugal (1995).
- São Tomé products have privileged access to the European Union and the United States of America.
- São Tomé and Príncipe enjoys the status of observer member of the WTO, World Trade Organization.
- The country is a member of the Central African Economic Community and has bilateral trade agreements with Angola, Gabon, Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea.