This course explores the legal frameworks, structures, and practical considerations governing international business transactions. From international sales of goods to cross-border joint ventures, licensing, franchising, foreign direct investment, and international dispute resolution, the course addresses the full lifecycle of a global business deal.
Using treaties, statutes, model laws, and sample agreements, students will examine how parties allocate risk, navigate jurisdictional complexities, and comply with regulatory regimes. Special attention is paid to the roles of international institutions (WTO, UNCITRAL, ICC), commercial instruments (INCOTERMS, UCP), and dispute mechanisms (ICSID, ICC Arbitration, litigation in foreign courts). Emerging topics include compliance with anti-corruption laws, economic sanctions, ESG considerations, and e-commerce regulation.
Designed for future transactional lawyers, in-house counsel, and legal advisors to global companies, the course balances legal theory with practical application and global commercial awareness.
Course Objectives:
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
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Identify and explain key legal principles applicable to international commercial transactions.
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Interpret and apply international treaties and conventions relevant to cross-border business.
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Analyze standard forms of international contracts and evaluate how they allocate risk.
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Understand how trade regulation, compliance, and enforcement affect international deals.
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Advise on structuring and negotiating international transactions with attention to tax, licensing, investment, and dispute resolution issues.
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Recognize how cultural, political, and legal differences shape transactional decision-making.
