Alexandria, Virginia, USA
August 10, 2010

“Basic Terms, Conditions and Standards for Seed Sales Contracts” a white paper and PowerPoint® presentation developed by the American Seed Trade Association’s Brokers and Agents Division, is available to help seed companies write more comprehensive contracts and better protect themselves.

“At times, ASTA is asked to help arbitrate seed trade disputes,” said Ann Jorss, ASTA vice president of administration and division staff liaison. “Occasionally we are not able to help a party with their request because there is either no formal contract or the existing agreement does not contain the essential elements needed in order for a seed trade agreement to go to arbitration.”

Arbitration requests fit well within the scope and goals of ASTA. Requests are facilitated by the American Arbitration Association or the ASTA International Arbitration Chamber using International Seed Federation rules.

The white paper and PowerPoint® presentation, available at http://www.amseed.com/news_SeedSalesContracts.asp, are designed to help alleviate this situation and outline items that should be included in a seed trade contract.

“We hope this information will help prevent seed companies from getting into legal disputes and at the same time put them in a legally sound place if problems do occur,” Jorss said.
A few of the many topics touched upon in the document include:

• Reference to governing rules
• Quantity
• Species and variety of seeds
• Description of seed quality
• Shipping timelines and terms
• Payment conditions

The materials are not meant to serve as legal advice and do not replace the need for competent legal council when contracts are being formalized between parties and should only be considered for advisory purposes.

For questions and additional information, contact Jorss at 703-837-8140 or ajorss@amseed.org.
 

Website: http://www.amseed.org

Published: August 10, 2010