For an unpaid export receivable, the free consultation reviews the sales contract or proforma, the Incoterms and payment terms (advance, LC, DA, DP or open account), shipping documents, the buyer's correspondence and any credit insurance. It then recommends a formal demand notice to the buyer under the governing law, engagement of correspondent counsel where enforcement is viable, and the steps needed on the Indian side with your bank. Nothing upfront; 30% on recovery.
Why export receivables go unpaid
- Open-account sales to a new buyer who disappears after the second or third shipment
- Documents against acceptance where the buyer takes delivery and then delays
- Quality or quantity disputes raised after the goods are cleared and sold on
- Buyer insolvency or a change of ownership abroad
- Agent in the middle who collected but did not remit
What the consultation examines
| Item | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Sales contract or proforma invoice | Governing law, jurisdiction, arbitration, payment terms |
| Incoterms and shipping documents | When risk and ownership passed; proof of delivery |
| Payment mode | LC or DP give the bank leverage; DA and open account do not |
| Buyer's correspondence | Admissions, promises, disputes and their timing |
| Credit insurance (ECGC or private) | Claim procedure and deadlines |
| Buyer's jurisdiction | Whether a notice and local enforcement are practical |
What can realistically be done
A formal demand notice from an Indian advocate under the governing law, sent to the buyer's registered address and principals, often produces payment because the buyer does not want a dispute on record with a supplier. Where the contract provides for arbitration, proceedings can be started. Where court action abroad is needed, FundRaksha coordinates with correspondent counsel and gives you a cost-benefit view before you commit. On the Indian side, the expert explains the realisation follow-up your bank will make and what documentation of your recovery efforts you should keep. See the exports industry page.
Where the "foreign" buyer has an Indian subsidiary, office or assets, the picture changes and domestic routes may apply.
Cost and next steps
Nothing is charged upfront. If you proceed, FundRaksha Legal charges 30% only on the amount actually recovered; if nothing is recovered there is no success fee. Court fees, where a matter is filed, are borne by you and told to you in advance. Where foreign counsel or filing costs arise, they are quoted before you decide. If you decide to go ahead, a dedicated advocate is assigned within 24 hours of your complete documents and the legal notice goes out as an e-notice, followed by registered post.
Export hubs: Mumbai, Surat, Tiruppur, Kochi and Jaipur. See also textile payment recovery and leather.
Last reviewed: 2026-10-08. Information for Indian businesses; not legal advice.