The situation: A supplier misses his delivery deadline due to a sudden city lockdown and invokes 'force majeure,' though part of the order was late from his own poor planning.
Applicable law: Force majeure is an 'objective circumstance that is unforeseeable, unavoidable and insurmountable.' It excuses liability only to the extent of its impact, provided the other party is notified promptly with evidence and losses are mitigated. It does not cover personal fault or what could have been avoided.
Outcome: The supplier was excused for the portion the lockdown genuinely blocked but stayed liable for the part delayed by his own negligence.
📄 Contracts · Awareness case
Force Majeure Excuses… But Not Everything · Yalla China
🤝 Governing law: 民法典（不可抗力）/ Civil Code (Force Majeure)
When does 'force majeure' actually release you from your contract?
Illustrative, general educational examples — not real specific facts and not legal advice; for awareness only. For an actual situation, consult a licensed lawyer.
🎓 The lesson / takeaway
Lesson: Force majeure is not a blanket excuse. Notify at once, keep evidence, and mitigate — otherwise the defense collapses.
🕒 Updated: 16 March 2026