CBL Insights · Sanctions and contracts

Sanctions Clauses in International Contracts

A sanctions clause should define a verifiable response to a specific restriction—not give either party a broad right to avoid an obligation that has become commercially inconvenient.

Sanctions ComplianceAuthor: Cross-Border LawPublished: 14 June 2026

A clause should respond to a provable legal restriction

Legal impossibility, a bank's internal policy and a commercial delay are not the same event. The clause should define evidence, notice and proportionate consequences for the restriction that has actually occurred.

A sanctions clause needs a verifiable operating sequence

A clause should create a controlled response to a provable restriction, with consequences proportionate to what has actually occurred.

Trigger

The specific restriction capable of affecting performance.

Evidence

Information required to substantiate the effect.

Notice

Timing, content and continuing information duties.

Lawful alternative

A workable substitute where legally available.

Suspension

A proportionate pause while the position is tested.

Consequences

Termination, costs, refunds and accrued rights.

Does the contract contain an overbroad sanctions clause?

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