Originally published August 2005

Distribution contracts fall outside the categories of contracts specifically defined by the Italian Civil Code: there is no legal definition or specific regulation of distribution to be found in other statutes, as is the case in most countries.

Scholars and case law have construed the relevant regime applicable to distribution contracts governed by Italian law by reference to the general principles appropriate to contractual obligations, as well as to the statutory rules suitable to contracts of a similar nature.

This is why, whenever a dispute arises and the parties have not determined the competent jurisdiction and/or applicable law, the competent forum remains uncertain and conflicting arguments are invariably put before the court or the arbitrators, who must establish the substantive law governing the contractual relationship concerned.

With regard to jurisdiction, whenever the issue arises before a...

This service is completely FREE but for the full article and thousands of other articles from 100+ countries please tell us about yourself by registering (and yes, our lawyers like to think you've read our Disclaimer). It only takes 30 seconds and as well as great content you get articles more relevant to you and other advanced features like an optional personalised once-weekly news alert and forward-to-colleague capabilities. We'll also remember your details so you don't have to login again - if you've registered before please login here or if you've forgotten your username click here and we'll remind you. We appreciate your time is important and will respect your privacy - THANK YOU for registering.

Specific Questions relating to this article should be addressed directly to the author.

Do you have a question for the author?