INSIGHTS

When the Money Stops Moving: OFAC, Buyer Default, and the Unforgiven Logic of English Law in Commodity Trade

There is a scenario that is becoming increasingly familiar in international commodity markets, particularly in trades involving the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region: a buyer defaults on payment, not out of bad faith in the traditional sense, but because their funds have been frozen, blocked, or intercepted somewhere within the international banking system. The downstream payment arrives. The upstream payment does not. And the seller — who has delivered or is committed to delivering tens of thousands of metric tonnes of grain — is left holding the contractual risk and wondering whether the buyer's explanation provides any legal shelter. . . Read more

02.04.2026

Quality Issues and Payment Obligations under DAP Contracts

When goods are delivered under DAP terms, disputes often arise over whether the buyer may withhold payment due to quality concerns. As a general principle, quality claims do not automatically release the buyer from the obligation to pay. . . Read more

03.03.2026

When a Counter-party Looks for Excuses – Strong Claims Handling Makes the Difference. 6 million US dollars recovered.

In the recent case our client was the Seller of 30,000 MT of milling wheat under FOB terms, governed by GAFTA 49 and English law. From the very beginning, the Buyer tried to avoid proper performance of the contract. Our team stepped in . . . Read more

25.01.2026

International Sale and Purchase Contracts: What Should Be Considered When Concluding and Performing Them? 

The day-to-day activities of international market operators are connected with the conclusion and performance of contracts with their counterparties. Such contracts, in terms of their characteristics and conditions, may differ significantly depending on the goals and intentions of the parties. Read more

22.12.2025