ABSTRACT
The United Nations Convention on Contracts for the International Sale of Goods (Vienna Convention) came into force on 1 January 1960.1
It continues to be open for ratification or accession. Four States signed it (it was open for signature until 30 September 1981) and as at May 1994 a further 38 had ratified it or acceded to it. These Contracting States include Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Italy, the Russian Federation, Spain and the USA. Notable omissions include Japan and the UK. The list of relevant States is set out at the end of this commentary, along with a statement of declarations and reservations made by certain States pursuant to provisions in the Convention.
