Buyer’s Obligations

Abstract This chapter analyses the buyer’s obligations under international sales contracts, particularly under the CISG, the PICC, and trade practices. It explores the buyer’s duties to pay the purchase price and take delivery, as well as interdependent obligations enabling contract performance. The chapter examines how price is determined, including fixed, indexed, and open price mechanisms, and addresses currency, means, place, and time of payment. Various payment methods—such as cash in advance, documentary credits, collections, open account, and bank guarantees—are reviewed alongside their legal implications. It further considers the buyer’s obligation to take delivery of goods, including timing, place, and cooperation duties under Incoterms, the CISG, the PICC, and trade usages. Finally, it discusses additional obligations derived from contract terms, practices, or the duty to cooperate, highlighting the buyer’s role in facilitating performance.