What Laws Affect International Contracts?

If your contract is with say a hirer based in another country or some of the work will be done in another country, you may be required to comply with the laws of that country. Some international contracts specify which country’s law will apply in deciding future disputes. It is a good idea to consider including a clause like this so you don’t waste time and money deciding which court in which country will hear the dispute. You should bear in mind that should a dispute arise in relation to a contract that applies the law of another country, any claim you make in that country is likely to be very expensive for you.

Your Home country may also be a party to a free trade agreement with the country, which may impact on the contract.

The laws of other countries may be different from your Home country law in areas such as import procedures, taxation, employment practices, currency dealings, property rights, the protection of intellectual property and agency/distributorship arrangements. It is strongly recommended that you get advice from a lawyer in the relevant country.