COMMERCIAL AGENT IN ETHIOPIA: A COMPARATIVE STUDY

Abstract

This is a comparative research work on the legal frame work of “Commercial Agent” in Ethiopia with an objective of exploring the various available legal frameworks there for and the associated problems therein. In this LLM thesis, it has been tried to overview the various legal protections on Commercial Agent in different jurisdictions and to also compare and contrast these ‘Commercial Agent’ frameworks with that “Commercial Agent” Legal frame work in Ethiopia. The paper finally comes up with some conclusions drawn from the legal loopholes and problems observed in the Laws which bestowed protection to Commercial Agent and the findings of the research show that there are inadequate legal frameworks to regulate the Commercial agency, part icularly Commercial Agent in Ethiopia. As a result under the Commercial Code of Ethiopia regarding the scope of a commercial agent’s activities , the exclusionary rule from Commercial agent businesses , the effect of Continued performance after the ex piry of fixed period, the consequences of non - observance of mandatory notice for termination, duty to cooperation of the commercial agent and principal, issue of remuneration post termination, the entitlement of Commercial Agent up on termination for de finite period of time, the entitlement of Compensation/indemnity if the agency relation is terminated due to death, illness, age and infirmity of the agent ,obligation not to compete post termination and the time - barred(period of limitation) for entitleme nt of compensation up on termination of the agency agreement are not properly addressed in a manner that attracts Commercial agency business investment.