What is a supply agreement under Dutch law?

Dutch term: Leveringsovereenkomst | Legal basis: Freedom of contract + Book 7 BW

A supply agreement (leveringsovereenkomst) under Dutch law is a contract governing the ongoing supply of goods or materials between a supplier and a buyer over a defined period. It is not a distinct statutory contract type but is governed by the general rules of Book 6 BW and, for individual deliveries, by the sale of goods provisions of Book 7 Title 1 BW.

Key provisions include the products covered, ordering and delivery mechanics, Incoterms, quality specifications, acceptance procedures, pricing (fixed, indexed or formula-based), minimum and maximum volumes, delivery schedules, warranties, liability and the term and termination regime. For cross-border supply agreements, CISG application, choice of law, jurisdiction and force majeure clauses require particular attention.

Why it matters for international businesses

For manufacturers in the supply chain, the supply agreement is the backbone of the production relationship. Getting the delivery, quality and compliance clauses right prevents disputes and ensures smooth operations.