Commercial & Foreign Trade
Our Philosophy
Rödl possesses many years of expertise in all areas of commercial and distribution law, as well as foreign trade and export law. Together, we design your company’s procurement, marketing, and sales to be not only legally sound, but also future-oriented, sufficiently flexible, and internationally robust.
We advise national and international companies across all industries on structuring their distribution relationships and enforcing their rights in commercial law, as well as in export transactions. Our activities cover all distribution stages – from manufacturing to sales to the end customer. Our well-coordinated team of experienced lawyers works across locations and disciplines – with a global mindset and clear perspective.
Our Services
Skip SectionConsulting on the Strategic Alignment of the Supply Chain
We advise companies on the strategic alignment of their supply chains – legally sound, sustainable, and future-oriented. From analyzing regulatory requirements to implementing effective compliance and risk management systems, we support you in legally securing your global value creation.
Our focus areas
- Structural and Strategic Consulting
- Direct Sales vs. Sales Intermediaries – Selective Distribution
- Exclusive distribution
- E-commerce
- Internationalization
- Supply Chain Due Diligence Act “LkSG”
Drafting of Distribution Agreements
We draft legally sound and practical distribution agreements – individually tailored to your business models and market requirements, for both B2B and B2C. We advise on structure, risks, and compliance, negotiate contract terms, and safeguard your interests nationally and internationally.
Our focus areas
- Supply and Purchase Agreements
- General Terms and Conditions, especially Terms of Sale, Terms of Purchase, Maintenance Terms
- Authorized Dealer Agreements
- Franchise Agreements
- Customized, non-standard distribution agreements tailored to your business model
Distribution Law Consulting for Day-to-Day Business
We provide ongoing advice on distribution law and support you in your day-to-day business – from the legally sound structuring of distribution systems and the review of ongoing contractual relationships to clarifying questions regarding commercial agency, competition, and antitrust law. Our practical advice ensures legal clarity and business security.
Our focus areas
- Aspects of International Commercial Law
- Advice on contract-compliant practices and implementation
- Assistance with contract termination and settlement
Conflict Mediation, Enforcement of Claims and Litigation
We consistently enforce civil and commercial law claims – out of court and in court. We strategically prepare for conflicts, secure evidence, analyze scenarios, and consider your position. In case of dispute, we efficiently represent your interests in court and handle enforcement proceedings. Our litigation is targeted and solution-oriented.
Our focus areas
- Out-of-court and in-court enforcement and defense of civil and commercial law claims – Conflict preparation (securing evidence, evaluating possible scenarios considering one’s own strategic position)
- Conflict Preparation (Preservation of Evidence and Strategic Planning)
- Enforcement Proceedings
Customs & Foreign Trade Law
We provide comprehensive advice on customs and foreign trade law. Our services range from expert opinions and the establishment of risk management systems to customs and VAT consulting in e-commerce. We represent your interests in proceedings and offer practical in-house training – legally sound, strategic, and internationally oriented.
Our focus areas
- Sanctions and Export Control Health Checks for Internationally Active Companies
- Legal advice on EU foreign trade law, the EU Dual-Use Regulation, and the Austrian Foreign Trade Act (AWG) and Foreign Trade Ordinance (AWV)
- Contract review regarding export control, re-export, and technology transfer
- Goods classification (EU Dual-Use, Export List) and transaction review (screening, end-use)
- Advice on embargoed countries (e.g., Russia, Iran, etc.) as well as support with and preparation of BAFA applications (including general authorizations)
- Development and optimization of Internal Compliance Programs (ICP)
- Advice on international export control regulations (including those of the U.S. and China) in collaboration with specialized partners
Customs Law
Our services cover all customs-related matters: health checks, tariff classification, preferential treatment, permits, compliance systems, and representation before government agencies. Strategic, efficient, and tailored to your needs.
Our focus areas
- Customs Health Check for Internationally Active Companies
- Consulting and support for import and export procedures under customs law
- Analysis of complex customs issues (tariff classification (vZTA), customs value including licenses, etc.)
- Origin of goods and preferences (preference calculation, supporting documentation, Authorized Exporter)
- Support with customs authorizations (e.g., bonded warehouses, inward/outward processing, AEO)
- Expert opinions in anti-dumping law
- Representation before customs authorities in refund and appeal proceedings
- Development and review of customs compliance systems
- Consulting on excise taxes and tax procedural simplifications (e.g., tobacco tax)
Foreign Trade Reports (AWV)
We assist companies with all reporting requirements related to payments and capital flows: from process implementation to verification and correction reports, and communication with the Bundesbank and the Main Customs Office – reliably and with a practical focus.
Our focus areas
- Consulting and support regarding foreign trade reporting requirements for payments and capital transactions (position and capital reports)
- Review and assessment of reportable matters, including relevant key figures
- Implementation and documentation of internal processes for the identification, recording, and timely submission of foreign trade reports
- Assistance with corrective reports and voluntary disclosures, as well as support in communicating with the Deutsche Bundesbank and the Main Customs Office
Global Expertise
Our “International Group Commercial & Distribution” brings together expertise across national borders and supports companies worldwide in navigating the challenges of international trade.