Contract law in Europe

Laws on contracts are set by individual member states in the European Union (EU). However, the EU has harmonised some aspects of contract law across the whole of the European Community. In addition, some EU legislation affects contract law because it takes precedence over national laws.

If you deal with a business in another EU country, you can choose under which jurisdiction you agree the contract terms. Alternatively, the EU has produced a standard contract called the "Principles of European Contract Law". You can include these terms in any EU contract if both sides agree to it. 

This guide explains contract law and the European single market and discusses the formation of European contracts.