International Trade Contracts
In cross-border trade, contract architecture largely determines dispute outcomes. A well-drafted contract controls customs, delivery, and payment risks in advance.
Contract Categories
- International Sale Contracts: CISG-aligned delivery, payment and liability terms
- Distribution and Dealership: Territorial rights, competition and termination provisions
- Agency Agreements: Commission, exclusivity and goodwill compensation clauses
- Trade Finance Instruments: Letters of credit, standby LC and bank guarantees
Clauses That Must Be Precise
- Incoterms delivery model and risk transfer point
- Governing law and jurisdiction/arbitration
- Quality inspection, acceptance and defect notice process
- Force majeure and hardship/adaptation mechanisms
Customs Compliance Dimension
Inconsistency between contract wording, invoices, transport documents and customs declarations may cause additional assessments, penalties and delivery delays. Contract-customs alignment review is therefore critical.
Related Topics
- Foreign Trade Contracts — Baseline contract framework
- Maritime Law and Maritime Trade — Carriage and bill of lading disputes
- Import-Export Law — Compliance and operational risk management