{"id":2797,"date":"2025-04-25T17:24:37","date_gmt":"2025-04-25T14:24:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/?p=2797"},"modified":"2026-05-28T10:57:42","modified_gmt":"2026-05-28T07:57:42","slug":"force-majeure-in-the-india-pakistan-conflict-legal-implications-for-agricultural-trade","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/en\/force-majeure-in-the-india-pakistan-conflict-legal-implications-for-agricultural-trade\/","title":{"rendered":"Force Majeure in the India-Pakistan Conflict: Legal Implications for Agricultural Trade"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_71 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-transparent ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">\u0421\u043e\u0434\u0435\u0440\u0436\u0430\u043d\u0438\u0435<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/en\/force-majeure-in-the-india-pakistan-conflict-legal-implications-for-agricultural-trade\/#Agricultural_Trade_Between_the_Nations\" title=\"Agricultural Trade Between the Nations\">Agricultural Trade Between the Nations<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/en\/force-majeure-in-the-india-pakistan-conflict-legal-implications-for-agricultural-trade\/#Force_Majeure_in_Action_A_Case_Study\" title=\"Force Majeure in Action: A Case Study\">Force Majeure in Action: A Case Study<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/en\/force-majeure-in-the-india-pakistan-conflict-legal-implications-for-agricultural-trade\/#Analysing_the_Force_Majeure_Claim\" title=\"Analysing the Force Majeure Claim\">Analysing the Force Majeure Claim<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/en\/force-majeure-in-the-india-pakistan-conflict-legal-implications-for-agricultural-trade\/#Application_to_Our_Scenario\" title=\"Application to Our Scenario\">Application to Our Scenario<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/en\/force-majeure-in-the-india-pakistan-conflict-legal-implications-for-agricultural-trade\/#Qualifying_Event\" title=\"Qualifying Event\">Qualifying Event<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/en\/force-majeure-in-the-india-pakistan-conflict-legal-implications-for-agricultural-trade\/#Unforeseen_and_Unavoidable\" title=\"Unforeseen and Unavoidable\">Unforeseen and Unavoidable<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/en\/force-majeure-in-the-india-pakistan-conflict-legal-implications-for-agricultural-trade\/#Prevention_of_Performance_Impossibility\" title=\"Prevention of Performance (Impossibility)\">Prevention of Performance (Impossibility)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/en\/force-majeure-in-the-india-pakistan-conflict-legal-implications-for-agricultural-trade\/#Causation\" title=\"Causation\">Causation<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/en\/force-majeure-in-the-india-pakistan-conflict-legal-implications-for-agricultural-trade\/#Mitigation_Alternative_Performance\" title=\"Mitigation (Alternative Performance)\">Mitigation (Alternative Performance)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/en\/force-majeure-in-the-india-pakistan-conflict-legal-implications-for-agricultural-trade\/#Notice_Requirements\" title=\"Notice Requirements\">Notice Requirements<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/en\/force-majeure-in-the-india-pakistan-conflict-legal-implications-for-agricultural-trade\/#Assessment_of_the_Claim\" title=\"Assessment of the Claim\">Assessment of the Claim<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/en\/force-majeure-in-the-india-pakistan-conflict-legal-implications-for-agricultural-trade\/#Regarding_the_Border_Suppliers_Operations\" title=\"Regarding the Border Supplier&#8217;s Operations\">Regarding the Border Supplier&#8217;s Operations<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/en\/force-majeure-in-the-india-pakistan-conflict-legal-implications-for-agricultural-trade\/#Regarding_the_Shipping_Route_Restrictions\" title=\"Regarding the Shipping Route Restrictions\">Regarding the Shipping Route Restrictions<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/en\/force-majeure-in-the-india-pakistan-conflict-legal-implications-for-agricultural-trade\/#Was_the_Seller_Justified\" title=\"Was the Seller Justified?\">Was the Seller Justified?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/en\/force-majeure-in-the-india-pakistan-conflict-legal-implications-for-agricultural-trade\/#Conclusion\" title=\"Conclusion\">Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<p>The diplomatic relationship between India and Pakistan has deteriorated significantly following a terrorist attack on April 22, 2025. A group of armed militants attacked tourists in the Baisaran meadow near Pahalgam in Indian-administered Kashmir, killing 26 people. &#8220;The Resistance Front&#8221; (TRF), believed by Indian officials to be linked to Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility for the attack.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>India&#8217;s response has been swift and severe:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Closure of land borders with Pakistan<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Revocation of visas issued to Pakistani nationals, with orders to leave India within days<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Suspension of participation in the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty (raising concerns about potential disruptions in water flow, though no actual diversion has occurred so far).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Downgrading of diplomatic ties, including expulsion of Pakistani military attach\u00e9s<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Pakistan has categorically denied involvement and implemented countermeasures:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Sealing its side of the Wagah border<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Closing airspace to Indian airlines<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Suspending bilateral trade with India<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Declaring Indian diplomats persona non grata<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Threatening to withdraw from key bilateral agreements<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>As of late April 2025, reports indicate Indian and Pakistani troops have exchanged small-arms fire along the Line of Control in Kashmir, raising international concerns about potential military escalation between these nuclear-armed neighbours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Agricultural_Trade_Between_the_Nations\"><\/span>Agricultural Trade Between the Nations<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>India and Pakistan are both major players in the global agricultural commodities market, with significant export and import activities that could be disrupted by the current conflict:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>India&#8217;s Agricultural Trade Profile:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Major Exports<\/strong>: Rice (world&#8217;s leading exporter), spices, cotton, sugar, tea, buffalo meat, and fresh fruits<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Key Export Markets<\/strong>: Middle East, Southeast Asia, Africa, USA, and the EU<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Major Imports<\/strong>: Vegetable oils (particularly palm oil), pulses, nuts, and fertilisers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Key Import Sources<\/strong>: Indonesia, Malaysia, Ukraine, Canada, and Brazil<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Pakistan&#8217;s Agricultural Trade Profile:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Major Exports<\/strong>: Rice (especially basmati and long-grain varieties), cotton, fruits (citrus, mangoes), vegetables, and wheat when surpluses exist<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Key Export Markets<\/strong>: Afghanistan, China, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and various European countries<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Major Imports<\/strong>: Palm oil, tea, pulses, wheat (in deficit years), and soybeans<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Key Import Sources<\/strong>: Indonesia, Malaysia, Kenya, Canada, and Australia<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The agricultural trade from both nations is frequently governed by standardised contracts such as those provided by The Grain and Feed Trade Association (Gafta) and The Federation of Oils, Seeds and Fats Associations (FOSFA), making questions of force majeure particularly relevant in the current geopolitical context.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Force_Majeure_in_Action_A_Case_Study\"><\/span>Force Majeure in Action: A Case Study<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Consider the following scenario:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-background\">An Indian exporter based in Mumbai contracted to deliver 5,000 MT of premium basmati rice to a Buyer in Dubai on CFR Jebel Ali terms under a GAFTA 88 contract signed in early March 2025 with a shipment period between 15-30 April 2025. The rice is sourced from a major processing facility located in Amritsar, Punjab, just 30 kilometres from the India-Pakistan border, which specialises in export-grade basmati with particular specifications required by the Dubai Buyer.<br><br>Following the Kashmir attack on April 22 and subsequent security measures, the supplier has reported significant operational disruptions. Military checkpoints have been established throughout the region, with especially intensive security screening for all commercial vehicles. Approximately 40% of the facility&#8217;s workforce has been unable to reach the plant due to these security measures and restricted movement in border-adjacent areas. Local authorities have issued an advisory recommending that businesses in the border region limit operations to essential activities only.<br><br>Additionally, the exporter has cited increasing logistical challenges affecting transportation from Punjab to Mumbai port. Several transporters have refused assignments to the border region, citing security concerns, while others have doubled their rates. Two truck convoys carrying the exporter&#8217;s rice were held at military checkpoints for extended security screenings, causing delays of 72+ hours. The exporter claims these combined factors have created a situation of force majeure and terminates the contract.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"628\" src=\"https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/mario-raj-n1z3gc9gJ8I-unsplash-1-1024x628.jpg\" alt=\"India Gafta 88 Force Majeure\" class=\"wp-image-2801\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/mario-raj-n1z3gc9gJ8I-unsplash-1-1024x628.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/mario-raj-n1z3gc9gJ8I-unsplash-1-978x600.jpg 978w, https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/mario-raj-n1z3gc9gJ8I-unsplash-1-1536x942.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Analysing_the_Force_Majeure_Claim\"><\/span>Analysing the Force Majeure Claim<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>To assess the validity of this force majeure claim, we must examine the relevant provisions in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gafta.com\/write\/MediaUploads\/Contracts\/2022\/88_2022.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Gafta 88<\/a> and apply them to our scenario. Gafta 88 contains a force majeure clause in Clause 20 (Prevention of Shipment), which generally specifies:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-d33573487cc3b4c904eb3e226eead83e\">Event of Force Majeure&#8221; means (a) prohibition of export or other executive or legislative act done by or on behalf of the government of the country of origin or of the territory where the port or ports named herein is\/are situate, restricting export, whether partially or otherwise, or (b) blockade, or (c) acts of terrorism, or (d) hostilities, or (e) strike, lockout or combination of workmen, or (f) riot or civil commotion, or (g) breakdown of machinery,&nbsp; or (h) fire, or (i) ice, or (j) Act of God, or (k) unforeseeable and unavoidable impediments to transportation or navigation, or (l) any other event comprehended in the term &#8220;force majeure&#8221;.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p>The clause further requires the affected party to notify the other party when such circumstances arise and provides for extensions of the shipment period.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Application_to_Our_Scenario\"><\/span>Application to Our Scenario<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>For a force majeure claim to succeed under English law (which typically governs Gafta contracts), the claiming party must demonstrate:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"1\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>An event falling within the force majeure definition<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Prevention or hindrance of performance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Causation: the event caused the prevention\/hindrance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>No reasonable steps could mitigate the effect (alternative performance)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Compliance with notice requirements<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Qualifying_Event\"><\/span>Qualifying Event<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The current India-Pakistan situation involves diplomatic tensions, border closures, trade restrictions, and limited military skirmishes. While a full-scale war has not broken out, there are genuine security concerns in border regions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Under English law, whether this constitutes force majeure depends on the specific contract wording. Gafta contracts would recognise<em> \u201chostilities\u201d as a force majeure event<\/em>, but the situation presents two distinct potential force majeure elements:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The border tensions and security situation affecting the supplier in Amritsar, with military checkpoints and workforce mobility issues<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The logistical challenges affecting domestic transportation from Punjab to Mumbai port, with extended security screenings and transporter refusals<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The security situation near the border might qualify as &#8220;civil commotion&#8221; or &#8220;hostilities&#8221; under the Gafta clause. The transportation delays at military checkpoints could potentially fall under subsection (k) &#8220;unforeseeable and unavoidable impediments to transportation.&#8221; In any event, the Gafta 88 force majeure clause has a catch-all provision in subsection (l) that extends to &#8220;any other event comprehended in the term &#8216;force majeure'&#8221; which imports the general English law concept.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The key issue will be whether these security measures and transportation challenges rise to the level of force majeure, or merely constitute commercial inconvenience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Unforeseen_and_Unavoidable\"><\/span>Unforeseen and Unavoidable<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>For an event to qualify as force majeure under English law, it must generally be unforeseeable at the time the contract was formed. The question here would be whether tensions between India and Pakistan were so predictable that the parties should have anticipated possible disruptions. Given the specific nature and timing of the terrorist attack and subsequent diplomatic crisis, a reasonable argument could be made that this particular escalation was unforeseeable, even if general tensions in the region were known.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Similarly, a fundamental element of force majeure is that the consequences of the event must be unavoidable despite reasonable precautions. If a party could have taken steps to avoid the force majeure event but failed to do so, the event will not qualify.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Prevention_of_Performance_Impossibility\"><\/span>Prevention of Performance (Impossibility)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The Seller&#8217;s claim has two components:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"1\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Supply chain disruption<\/strong>: The processing facility in Amritsar claims operational limitations due to security concerns, with 40% of its workforce unable to reach the plant and local authorities advising limited operations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Domestic transportation challenges<\/strong>: Transporters refusing assignments to the border region or doubling rates, and shipments experiencing 72+ hour delays at military checkpoints<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Under English law, performance <strong>must become impossible<\/strong>, not merely more expensive or inconvenient. Key questions would include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Is the supplier&#8217;s facility truly unable to operate at sufficient capacity to fulfil the order, or just facing temporary reductions?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Can the Seller source rice of the particular specifications required by the Dubai Buyer from alternative suppliers elsewhere in India, away from the border?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Are the transportation delays fundamental or merely causing inconvenience and increased costs?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Could alternative transportation arrangements bypass the most severely affected security checkpoints?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Causation\"><\/span>Causation<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>For the force majeure claim to succeed, the Seller must demonstrate a direct causal link between the events and the inability to perform.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Mitigation_Alternative_Performance\"><\/span>Mitigation (Alternative Performance)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>English law expects reasonable steps to mitigate the effects of force majeure events. The Seller would need to demonstrate efforts to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Source basmati rice with the required specifications from alternative suppliers in regions not affected by the border tensions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Identify alternative transportation routes from Amritsar to Mumbai that might avoid the most heavily secured checkpoints<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Consider expedited transportation once shipments clear the initial security zones to make up for checkpoint delays<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If necessary, offer acceptable substitutions or alternatives to the Buyer that could be sourced from less affected regions<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>English courts would examine the practicality and commercial reasonableness of these alternatives, considering factors such as the particular quality specifications required by the Dubai Buyer, timing considerations, and the proportionality of additional costs. The Seller cannot simply abandon performance because it has become more difficult or expensive &#8211; reasonable mitigation efforts must be demonstrated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Notice_Requirements\"><\/span>Notice Requirements<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Gafta contracts require prompt notice of force majeure events with supporting documentation. The seller must have:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Notified the Buyer (under Gafta 88 &#8211; 7 consecutive days of the occurrence or not later than 21 consecutive days before commencement of the shipment period, whichever is later)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>On request, provided evidence of the local security situation and supplier&#8217;s operational challenges<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Failing to provide a timely and detailed notification could invalidate an otherwise valid claim.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/akhil-chandran-lzfk5IMVpgo-unsplash-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"India spices Gafta\" class=\"wp-image-2804\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/akhil-chandran-lzfk5IMVpgo-unsplash-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/akhil-chandran-lzfk5IMVpgo-unsplash-900x600.jpg 900w, https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/akhil-chandran-lzfk5IMVpgo-unsplash-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/akhil-chandran-lzfk5IMVpgo-unsplash-270x180.jpg 270w, https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/akhil-chandran-lzfk5IMVpgo-unsplash-770x515.jpg 770w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Assessment_of_the_Claim\"><\/span>Assessment of the Claim<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Based on the current situation (as of April 2025), the Indian Seller&#8217;s force majeure claim presents a more nuanced case than might initially appear:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Regarding_the_Border_Suppliers_Operations\"><\/span>Regarding the Border Supplier&#8217;s Operations<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The claim related to the Amritsar supplier&#8217;s operational challenges has some merit but remains questionable:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"1\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Partial performance may still be possible<\/strong> &#8211; Even with 40% workforce reduction, the facility may still be able to fulfil some portion of the order, particularly if given additional time<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Advisory vs. mandatory closure<\/strong> &#8211; The local authorities have issued an advisory rather than a mandatory shutdown order, which weakens the claim of impossibility<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Alternative suppliers likely exist<\/strong> &#8211; Basmati rice is grown throughout northern India, not just in border regions, suggesting alternative sources may be available<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>English courts have historically shown reluctance to accept force majeure claims based on supplier difficulties unless:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The specific supplier was named in the contract<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The goods had unique specifications that only this supplier could meet (the contract does mention &#8220;particular specifications&#8221; which could strengthen the claim)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>No commercially reasonable alternatives existed<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Regarding_the_Shipping_Route_Restrictions\"><\/span>Regarding the Shipping Route Restrictions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The transportation difficulties present a stronger but still limited case:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"1\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Genuine security impediments<\/strong> &#8211; The 72+ hour delays at military checkpoints represent a concrete hindrance, not merely increased cost<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Transporter refusals<\/strong> &#8211; The fact that some transporters refuse assignments to the border region could indicate serious security concerns<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>However, alternatives likely exist<\/strong> &#8211; There are probably other transportation companies willing to take the assignment, albeit at higher rates<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Was_the_Seller_Justified\"><\/span>Was the Seller Justified?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Under the current circumstances (as of April 2025), the Indian Seller&#8217;s force majeure claim presents a more nuanced case when we consider the specific shipment period (15-30 April 2025) and the timing of events:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If the transportation delays occurred close to the end of the shipment period (the attack happened on April 22, leaving only 8 days until the end of the shipment window), there might be a legitimate argument for force majeure. With trucks being delayed 72+ hours at checkpoints and 40% workforce reduction at the supplier, it could be genuinely impossible to complete production, transportation, and shipment within the remaining contractual timeframe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, the Seller&#8217;s claim is significantly undermined by two key factors:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"1\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Alternative sources<\/strong> &#8211; If evidence shows that rice meeting the same specifications was readily available from other suppliers in India, and could have been shipped within the remaining period, the force majeure claim would likely fail. The Seller would need to demonstrate that the specific rice from this particular facility was essential to contract performance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Improper contract termination<\/strong> &#8211; The most critical flaw in the Seller&#8217;s position is that they terminated the contract outright rather than properly invoking force majeure. The Gafta 88 clause provides for a temporary suspension of contractual obligations during a force majeure event, <strong>followed by a right of cancellation<\/strong> if the event continues for a specified period (21 days after the end of the shipment period). It does not grant an automatic right to terminate the contract at the outset of the disruption.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>By unilaterally terminating the contract instead of requesting an extension of the shipment period, the Seller has likely placed themselves in breach of contract.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Seller&#8217;s premature termination means they would likely be found in default regardless of whether the underlying circumstances might have supported a temporary force majeure extension. This highlights the critical importance of understanding that force majeure suspends performance obligations temporarily rather than providing an automatic right to terminate a contract.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span>Conclusion<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The April 2025 India-Pakistan conflict highlights the legal complexities that agricultural traders face when geopolitical tensions disrupt supply chains. The case of our hypothetical basmati rice exporter demonstrates a critical lesson: understanding not just when force majeure applies, but how it should be properly invoked.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While the current border security measures create genuine challenges for suppliers in regions like Amritsar, with workforce reductions and transportation delays, these circumstances would not justify contract termination under standard Gafta terms and English law.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The case underscores a fundamental principle: force majeure typically suspends performance temporarily rather than providing grounds for contract cancellation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have any questions or require legal advice on force majeure claims, Gafta contracts, or English commercial law, feel free to contact me via <a href=\"mailto:danil@danil-hristich.com\">email<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/t.me\/danilhristich\" target=\"_blank\">Telegram<\/a>, or <a href=\"https:\/\/wa.me\/380632956265\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">WhatsApp<\/a>.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The diplomatic relationship between India and Pakistan has deteriorated significantly following a terrorist attack on April 22, 2025. A group of armed militants attacked tourists in the Baisaran meadow near Pahalgam in Indian-administered Kashmir, killing 26 people. &#8220;The Resistance Front&#8221; (TRF), believed by Indian officials to be linked to Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility for the<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":2798,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"rank_math_title":"","rank_math_description":"","rank_math_focus_keyword":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[562,560,561],"class_list":{"0":"post-2797","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-main","8":"tag-force-majeure","9":"tag-india","10":"tag-pakistan"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2797","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2797"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2797\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2816,"href":"https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2797\/revisions\/2816"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2798"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2797"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2797"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/danil-hristich.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2797"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}