UAE Ministry of Economy Implements Stricter Penalties Under Updated Commercial Agency Law
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is taking a bold step in enhancing its business environment by enforcing stricter penalties under the updated Commercial Agency Law. The Ministry of Economy in the UAE is cracking down on companies found in violation of this law, sending a clear message to the international community that contractual obligations must be upheld. In this article, we will delve into the key changes and provisions of the updated law, shedding light on how it impacts businesses operating in the UAE.
One of the most significant changes introduced by the updated Commercial Agency Law is the imposition of stringent penalties for non-compliance. If an international business is discovered selling its goods and services to entities or individuals other than the contracted commercial agent, they may face fines ranging from Dh100,000 to Dh400,000 after an initial warning. Moreover, their goods can be seized by UAE Customs, adding another layer of deterrence against violations.
Under the previous law, complaints of this nature were taken to civil courts for resolution, a process that could be lengthy and cumbersome. However, the new law empowers a disciplinary cabinet resolution to enforce penalties swiftly. First-time offenders will receive a warning, followed by fines of Dh100,000 and Dh200,000, along with the confiscation of their goods. For repeat violations, fines could escalate to as high as Dh400,000. This robust approach underscores the UAE’s commitment to upholding contractual obligations
The updated Commercial Agency Law also expands the definition of violations. It explicitly includes bypassing geographical limitations to operate in a different emirate, whether by a third party or the agent themselves, as a breach of the law. This broader scope ensures that businesses operating in the UAE are fully aware of their contractual limitations and obligations.
The updated law also provides clarity on ownership structures within the UAE. It distinguishes between sectors where business owners can retain full ownership of their enterprises and those where they must operate through a local ‘agent.’ This distinction aims to strike a balance between promoting foreign investment and protecting local interests. It’s a move towards aligning the UAE’s business landscape with international standards while safeguarding its economy.
Hasan AlKilany, Senior Legal Counsel at the UAE Ministry of Economy, emphasized that the new law leaves no room for evasion of contractual obligations. Violators will not only face hefty fines but also end up with a criminal record, sending a clear and unequivocal message to businesses operating in the UAE.
Unlike some regulatory changes that come with transitional periods, the new Commercial Agency Law applies immediately to all new contracts. The only exceptions are non-renewal and early termination of contracts for convenience. In all other cases, existing agency agreements will automatically fall under the purview of the new law. This streamlined approach ensures that businesses do not have to navigate complex transition periods, providing clarity and certainty to all parties involved.
Prominent Provisions of the Law
The updated law introduces several prominent provisions to enhance business operations in the UAE:
- Ownership: Public shareholding companies with at least 51 percent UAE citizen ownership can engage in commercial agency operations, while other legal entities are restricted to UAE citizens only, promoting the transition of family-owned companies into public shareholding firms.
- Contract Duration: Commercial agency contracts are typically set at five years when they involve buildings, warehouses, or maintenance facilities unless stated otherwise in the agreement.
- Registration: Only registered entities in the Commercial Agencies Register at the Ministry of Economy can engage in commercial agency activities.
- Contract Termination: The law establishes clear procedures for contract termination, including notice periods and asset transfer conditions to new agents.
- Dispute Resolution: Measures are in place to ensure the continuous flow of goods and services during disputes between principals and agents, with principals held responsible for compensation.
The UAE’s updated Commercial Agency Law is a significant step toward creating a more transparent and business-friendly environment. Stricter penalties for violations, an expanded definition of breaches, and immediate implementation of the law underscore the government’s commitment to upholding contractual obligations. As the UAE continues to modernize its regulatory framework, it sends a clear message to the international business community: compliance is not optional, and contractual commitments must be honored. This is a crucial development for both existing businesses and those considering entering the UAE market, as it establishes a robust legal framework that promotes fairness and accountability in business dealings.
Summary of article by: Waheed Abbas, Khaleej Times
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