Remedies in foreign trade law and practice refer to the legal or contractual relief measures available to the aggrieved party when the other party breaches the contract or force majeure occurs, including specific performance, damages, termination of contract, suspension of performance, price reduction, repair or replacement, etc. They are commonly used in international sales contracts, letter of credit disputes, and transport and insurance claims. Key points: first, distinguish between legal remedies and contractual remedies, with contractual ones taking precedence; second, the choice of remedies is governed by the CISG and domestic law, e.g., Articles 45-52 and 61-65 of the CISG; third, before taking remedies, preserve evidence and notify the other party promptly to avoid losing part of the claim due to failure to mitigate losses. Difference from other terms: Remedies focus on the legal right to relief after breach, while 'Claim' focuses on the act of demanding compensation, and 'Relief' is broader, including interim measures in litigation or arbitration. Foreign trade practitioners should specify remedy clauses in contracts, such as liquidated damages, termination conditions, and dispute resolution methods, to enhance enforceability.
📝 Examples
1. Because the quality of the goods delivered by the seller did not conform to the contract, the buyer demanded, under Article 46 of the CISG, that the seller take remedial measures, including repairing or replacing the non-conforming goods, and reserved the right to further claims. (Note: The buyer chose the remedy of specific performance for quality breach.)
2. In a letter of credit transaction, after the issuing bank unreasonably refused payment, the beneficiary may take remedies such as demanding payment from the issuing bank, applying to the court for a stop-payment order, or initiating arbitration, while also taking care to raise objections promptly after the notice of refusal. (Note: Various remedies available to the beneficiary in letter of credit disputes.)
💡 Foreign Trade Tips
Foreign trade terms are the foundation of international business communication
Trade practices may vary slightly by country; pay attention when using them
When using terms in contracts, specify the applicable version (e.g., Incoterms 2020)
For unfamiliar terms, use GlobalSync's multilingual email helper to confirm with your partner