The Judiciary of Seychelles is proud to announce the establishment of a dedicated Commercial Court, aimed at streamlining the resolution of commercial disputes and enhancing the ease of doing business in the country. Judge Natasha Burian has been appointed as Head of the newly established Court, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a progressive vision for commercial justice.
Judge Burian was sworn in this Tuesday 8 April 2025 at State House before the President of the Republic, members of the Constitutional Appointments Authority, and fellow judges.
Speaking of the launch, Judge Burian said:
“It is important to put businesses at ease and for them to know that if they find themselves in a legal dispute, they will be able to obtain a swift resolution. For this reason, we are making mediation compulsory for all commercial matters, encouraging businesses to maintain cordial relationships after resolution.”
The Commercial Court will adjudicate a wide range of matters, including contractual disputes, banking, finance, insurance, enforcement of foreign judgments, and criminal cases with a commercial element such as anti-corruption, money laundering, and proceeds of crime.
Speaking on her appointment, she added:
“I feel privileged that I have been given the opportunity to progress professionally and I am grateful to my family and friends for the support provided throughout my journey.”
Judge Burian, the youngest judicial appointee to the Supreme Court bench in 2021, currently serves as Chairperson of the Computerised Case Administration System of Seychelles (CCASS) and SEYLII, the country’s leading online legal information platform. Her academic credentials include a Master of Laws in Criminology and Criminal Justice from Queen Mary University London, as well as a specialization in Commercial and Company Law through the Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC) at City University, London.
With a career that spans over a decade—from private practice to her roles in the Family Tribunal, Employment Tribunal, Rent Board, and as a Magistrate—Judge Burian brings a depth of legal and administrative expertise to this landmark judicial development.
This milestone initiative reflects the Judiciary’s commitment to creating a modern, efficient, and business-friendly legal environment that supports both foreign and domestic investment.