TERMS OF SERVICE

Effective Date: September 9, 2025
Last Updated: September 9, 2025

Acceptance of Terms
Definitions
Platform Description
User Registration and Accounts
User Classifications and Services
Data Collection and Information Sources
Content and Intellectual Property
User Conduct and Prohibited Activities
Payment Terms and Fees
Privacy and Data Protection
International Trade and Export Controls
Platform Availability and Technical Requirements
Third-Party Services and Links
Disclaimers and Warranties
Limitation of Liability
Indemnification
Dispute Resolution and Governing Law
Regulatory Compliance
Termination
Force Majeure
Modifications to Terms
Miscellaneous Provisions

1. ACCEPTANCE OF TERMS

By accessing, browsing, or using the AgriLinkage platform (the "Platform") operated by AgriLinkage LLC, a limited liability company organized under the laws of Illinois ("AgriLinkage LLC," "we," "us," or "our"), you ("User," "you," or "your") acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms of Service ("Terms") and all applicable laws and regulations.

1.1 Legal Capacity

You represent and warrant that:

(a) you are at least 18 years of age or the age of legal majority in your jurisdiction
(b) you have the legal capacity to enter into these Terms
(c) if you are acting on behalf of an entity, you have the authority to bind such entity to these Terms
(d) your use of the Platform does not violate any other agreements to which you are a party
(e) you are not barred from using the Platform under applicable laws, including but not limited to sanctions, export controls, or anti-money laundering regulations

1.2 Modification of Acceptance

Your continued use of the Platform following any changes to these Terms constitutes acceptance of such changes. If you do not agree to these Terms or any modifications thereof, you must cease all use of the Platform immediately. AgriLinkage LLC reserves the right to require affirmative acceptance of modified Terms for continued access.

1.3 Binding Agreement

These Terms form a legally binding agreement between you and AgriLinkage LLC. By using the Platform, you agree that any disputes arising from these Terms will be resolved as set forth in Section 17, and you waive any objections to jurisdiction or venue.

1.4 Electronic Signature

Your electronic acceptance of these Terms (e.g., by clicking "I Agree" or similar during registration or access) has the same legal effect as a handwritten signature.

2. DEFINITIONS

Affiliate means any entity that directly or indirectly controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with a party to these Terms.

Buyer means a User who uses the Platform to search for, evaluate, or engage with Suppliers for the purpose of purchasing agricultural products, services, or equipment.

Content means all information, data, text, documents, images, graphics, logos, trademarks, software, and other materials available on or through the Platform.

Documentation means certificates, licenses, permits, compliance records, financial statements, insurance policies, quality assurance documents, and other materials submitted by Suppliers for verification purposes.

Intellectual Property Rights means all intellectual property rights worldwide, including but not limited to copyrights, trademarks, trade secrets, patents, moral rights, and other proprietary rights.

Personal Data means any information relating to an identified or identifiable natural person as defined under applicable data protection laws, including but not limited to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), and similar laws.

Platform means the AgriLinkage website, mobile applications, APIs, and related services operated by AgriLinkage LLC.

Supplier means any entity or individual listed on the Platform that provides agricultural products, services, equipment, or related offerings.

User Content means any Content submitted, posted, uploaded, or transmitted by Users through the Platform.

Verification Services means AgriLinkage LLC's assessment and scoring of Suppliers based on submitted Documentation and other available information.

Additional Definitions for Clarity

Public Information means information that is lawfully available to the general public from sources such as government records, public websites, directories, and other non-confidential sources.

Verified Business means a Buyer or other registered User who has completed AgriLinkage LLC's verification process to confirm their status as a legitimate business entity.

3. PLATFORM DESCRIPTION

3.1 Platform Purpose

AgriLinkage LLC operates a business-to-business platform connecting agricultural suppliers worldwide with potential buyers across the agricultural ecosystem, including but not limited to farming, fishery, food processing, machinery, and agricultural tools and services.

3.2 Platform Services

The Platform provides the following services:

Supplier directory and listing services
Supplier verification and scoring system
Document management and verification services
Matchmaking services between Suppliers and Buyers
Search and filtering capabilities
Communication facilitation tools
Potential future services, including but not limited to direct sales of agricultural products, equipment, or services by AgriLinkage LLC or its Affiliates, should AgriLinkage LLC decide to offer such services at a later date. AgriLinkage LLC reserves the right to introduce direct sales features without prior notice, subject to compliance with applicable laws.

3.3 No Direct Sales Currently

Currently, AgriLinkage LLC does not sell agricultural products, equipment, or services directly. The Platform serves solely as an intermediary platform facilitating connections between Suppliers and Buyers. However, AgriLinkage LLC may elect to offer direct sales in the future, and these Terms will govern such activities if implemented.

3.4 Future Expansion

AgriLinkage LLC may expand Platform services to include e-commerce functionalities, marketplace transactions, or other features. Users will be notified of such expansions via Platform updates or email, and continued use constitutes acceptance.

4. USER REGISTRATION AND ACCOUNTS

4.1 Account Creation - Buyers Only

Only Buyers may create accounts on the Platform by providing accurate, current, and complete information. Supplier accounts are created exclusively by AgriLinkage LLC and cannot be self-registered.

During account creation, you must provide:

(a) valid business identification (e.g., business name, registration number, tax ID)
(b) contact information
(c) verification documents to confirm your status as a Verified Business
(d) consent to background checks, including sanctions screening

By creating an account, you represent and warrant that all provided information is true and accurate, and you authorize AgriLinkage LLC to verify such information through third-party services. You are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of your account credentials and for all activities that occur under your account.

4.2 Account Information and Legal Protections

You agree to:

(a) provide true, accurate, current, and complete information during registration
(b) maintain and promptly update your account information
(c) immediately notify us of any unauthorized use of your account
(d) consent to AgriLinkage LLC's collection, processing, and storage of your Personal Data as described in Section 10
(e) waive any claims against AgriLinkage LLC for losses arising from your failure to maintain account security
(f) indemnify AgriLinkage LLC for any liabilities resulting from inaccurate account information
(g) acknowledge that AgriLinkage LLC may share your account information with Verified Businesses for matchmaking purposes, but only after verifying the recipient's status

4.3 Account Suspension

AgriLinkage LLC reserves the right to suspend or terminate accounts that violate these Terms, provide false information, or engage in fraudulent or illegal activities. Suspension may occur without notice if AgriLinkage LLC determines, in its sole discretion, that such action is necessary to protect the Platform, other Users, or comply with law.

4.4 Supplier Profile Management

Supplier profiles are created and maintained exclusively by AgriLinkage LLC. Suppliers cannot directly create, edit, or delete their own profiles. All profile modifications, including edits, updates, or deletions, must be requested through designated official AgriLinkage LLC channels (e.g., contact@agrilinkage.com or specific, designated forms).

AgriLinkage LLC reserves sole discretion over profile content and modifications to ensure data integrity, prevent fraud, and maintain platform security. While AgriLinkage LLC controls direct access to profile editing, it is committed to respecting and facilitating the legal rights of suppliers regarding their personal data.

Suppliers may request account deletion or profile removal at any time via email or other official request channels. AgriLinkage LLC will process such requests in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations, including data protection laws such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA). Under these regulations, suppliers have the right to request the rectification of inaccurate personal information and the right to have their data erased under certain circumstances.

It is a legal and standard practice for platforms like AgriLinkage LLC to require such mediated processes. This approach is legally sound, provided that users are given reasonable, accessible, and timely means to request changes and deletions. AgriLinkage LLC's process is designed to comply with general contract law principles and the specific requirements of data protection regulations in relevant jurisdictions, ensuring that suppliers' rights are respected while maintaining a secure and reliable platform.

4.5 Additional Account Warranties

By creating an account, you warrant that:

(a) you are not using the Platform for any unlawful purpose
(b) you will comply with all export controls and sanctions as per Section 11
(c) you consent to electronic communications as per Section 22.7
(d) you release AgriLinkage LLC from any liability related to account creation or verification processes

5. USER CLASSIFICATIONS AND SERVICES

5.1 Supplier Services and Profile Claims

Suppliers listed on the Platform may:

Claim their existing AgriLinkage LLC-created profile through verification process
Submit Documentation for verification via designated AgriLinkage LLC channels only
Request profile updates or corrections through contact@agrilinkage.com or official forms
Pay for enhanced verification services through AgriLinkage LLC-managed processes
Receive scoring and rating based on submitted materials and public information

IMPORTANT: Suppliers cannot directly edit their profiles or account information. All changes must be submitted to and approved by AgriLinkage LLC. This mediated process is designed to protect AgriLinkage LLC from liability for unauthorized changes and ensures compliance with data accuracy standards.

5.2 Buyer Services

Buyers may:

Search and browse Supplier listings
Access basic Supplier information
Pay for premium verification document access
Utilize matchmaking services

Information sharing is limited to Verified Businesses, meaning only registered and verified Buyers or interested parties may access detailed Supplier information, in line with AgriLinkage LLC's commitment to data security.

5.3 Service Limitations

Access to certain features may require payment, verification, or meeting specific eligibility criteria as determined by AgriLinkage LLC in its sole discretion. AgriLinkage LLC may limit services based on jurisdiction to ensure compliance with local laws.

6. DATA COLLECTION AND INFORMATION SOURCES

6.1 Public Information Collection and Profile Creation

AgriLinkage LLC independently creates Supplier profiles by collecting, compiling, and publishing publicly available information from various sources, including, but not limited to:

Public websites, directories, and business listings
Government databases, registrations, and public records
Industry publications, reports, and trade directories
Chamber of commerce and trade association listings
Social media platforms and professional networks
Offline sources and industry research

AgriLinkage LLC creates these profiles in good faith with the intent to provide transparent and factual information about the agricultural industry ecosystem. Profiles are created without prior consent from Suppliers, as all information used is publicly available.

Under United States law, including the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, it is generally permissible to compile and publish factual, publicly available information about companies for legitimate business purposes, such as an informational directory. This practice aligns with principles established in U.S. case law, where facts are not copyrightable, and therefore, their compilation does not infringe on intellectual property rights unless the selection or arrangement itself is original and copied.

AgriLinkage LLC recognizes that while the information is public, its compilation and use carry legal obligations, particularly concerning data privacy and accuracy. We are committed to adhering to all applicable laws and best practices, including:

Data Minimization: We collect only the data necessary to serve our legitimate business purpose of providing an industry directory.
Accuracy: We take reasonable steps to ensure the accuracy of all compiled information and rely on suppliers to utilize the profile management channels outlined in Section 4.4 to request corrections.
Third-Party Terms of Service: Our data collection processes respect the terms of service and robots exclusion protocols of third-party websites. We avoid data scraping from platforms that explicitly prohibit this practice.
Global Compliance: While our primary focus is U.S. law, we recognize that our practices may fall under the purview of international regulations, such as the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). When dealing with data subjects in these jurisdictions, we will process requests for rectification and erasure in a timely manner and on the basis of a legitimate interest, provided that the data is not private or confidential, as defined by applicable law.

This practice is legally and ethically sound, as it is based on publicly accessible, non-confidential information. However, AgriLinkage LLC is vigilant in managing the associated risks, including potential claims of defamation, intellectual property infringement, or privacy violations, and we have established clear processes to address these concerns in compliance with all relevant laws.

6.2 Profile Claiming Process

Suppliers may claim and verify their AgriLinkage LLC-created profiles through our official verification process, which is initiated by sending an email to contact@agrilinkage.com or by completing a designated online form. This process allows suppliers to confirm their association with the profile and its content, thereby enhancing the trustworthiness and credibility of the information for other users of the platform.

6.3 Information Accuracy and Good Faith

AgriLinkage LLC compiles public information with the best of intent to create accurate profiles. However, we make no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of publicly collected information. Users are responsible for verifying all information independently.

6.4 Profile Modification and Update Requests

Suppliers may request removal, correction, or updates to their information by:

Contacting us at contact@agrilinkage.com
Completing official update forms provided by AgriLinkage LLC
Following the profile claiming and verification process

All requests will be reviewed in accordance with applicable law, our policies, and our commitment to transparency. AgriLinkage LLC reserves final discretion over all profile content and modifications to protect against fraudulent requests.

6.5 Independent Platform Status

AgriLinkage LLC operates as an independent platform with the mission of creating the most transparent agricultural industry database. Profile creation and information compilation are conducted independently without commercial relationships with listed Suppliers unless explicitly established through our services.

6.6 Legal Basis for Public Information Posting

As noted in Section 6.1, AgriLinkage LLC's use of public information is supported by U.S. laws allowing the aggregation and dissemination of public data for informational purposes. In other jurisdictions, similar principles apply under freedom of information laws (e.g., EU Directive 2019/1024 on open data) and common law doctrines, provided no personal data rights are violated.

7. CONTENT AND INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

7.1 AgriLinkage LLC Intellectual Property

All Content on the Platform, excluding User Content, is owned by AgriLinkage LLC or its licensors and is protected by copyright, trademark, and other intellectual property laws. Users may not use, reproduce, or distribute such Content without express written permission from AgriLinkage LLC.

7.2 Supplier Profile Content License

By claiming a profile or submitting Documentation through official AgriLinkage LLC channels, Suppliers grant AgriLinkage LLC a worldwide, royalty-free, non-exclusive, transferable, sublicensable license to use, reproduce, modify, adapt, publish, translate, create derivative works from, distribute, and display such information and Documentation in connection with operating and marketing the Platform. This license ensures AgriLinkage LLC can maintain and improve the Platform without restriction.

7.3 Public Information Usage Rights

AgriLinkage LLC maintains the right to use, publish, and distribute publicly available information compiled for Supplier profiles. This right exists independently of any profile claiming or verification process, as the information was publicly available prior to compilation.

7.4 User Content Representations

You represent and warrant that:

(a) you own or have necessary rights to your User Content
(b) your User Content does not infringe third-party rights
(c) your User Content complies with these Terms and applicable law
(d) you will indemnify AgriLinkage LLC for any claims arising from your User Content

7.5 Trademark Policy

AgriLinkage LLC respects trademark rights and expects Users to do the same. Any unauthorized use of trademarks may result in account termination and legal action.

7.6 DMCA Compliance

AgriLinkage LLC complies with the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA). Copyright infringement claims should be sent to our designated agent at contact@agrilinkage.com with proper DMCA notice requirements, including identification of the copyrighted work, the infringing material, and a statement under penalty of perjury.

7.7 Additional IP Protections

AgriLinkage LLC may monitor User Content for IP violations and remove infringing material without notice. Users agree not to challenge AgriLinkage LLC's ownership of Platform-derived works.

8. USER CONDUCT AND PROHIBITED ACTIVITIES

8.1 Acceptable Use

Users must use the Platform in accordance with these Terms and applicable law. Users are prohibited from:

8.2 Profile Claiming and Verification Conduct

Providing false information during profile claiming process
Attempting to claim profiles belonging to other entities
Submitting fraudulent or misleading Documentation
Circumventing AgriLinkage LLC-controlled profile modification processes
Creating unauthorized accounts (only Buyers may self-register)

8.3 Prohibited Content

Submitting false, misleading, or fraudulent Documentation
Uploading malicious code, viruses, or harmful software
Sharing Content that violates intellectual property rights
Submitting defamatory, discriminatory, or harassing materials
Uploading Content containing personal data of third parties without consent

8.4 Prohibited Activities

Attempting to gain unauthorized access to the Platform or other Users' accounts
Interfering with or disrupting Platform operations
Using automated tools to scrape or harvest data
Creating unauthorized accounts (Suppliers cannot self-register)
Attempting to directly edit AgriLinkage LLC-managed profiles
Engaging in any illegal activities through the Platform
Bypassing any technological measures implemented by AgriLinkage LLC

8.5 Commercial Restrictions

Reselling Platform access without authorization
Using the Platform to compete directly with AgriLinkage LLC
Reverse engineering Platform technology or algorithms

8.6 Enforcement

AgriLinkage LLC may investigate violations and take appropriate action, including profile removal, account suspension, content removal, and cooperation with law enforcement. AgriLinkage LLC's decisions are final and not subject to appeal.

8.7 Reporting Obligations

Users must report suspected violations to AgriLinkage LLC. Failure to report may result in liability for complicity.

9. PAYMENT TERMS AND FEES

9.1 Fee Structure

AgriLinkage LLC may charge fees for:

Supplier verification services
Premium Buyer access to advanced Documentation
Matchmaking services and successful transaction commissions
Enhanced listing features

Fees are subject to change and will be clearly disclosed prior to payment.

9.2 Payment Processing

All payments are processed through third-party payment processors. Users must comply with processor terms and provide accurate payment information. AgriLinkage LLC does not store payment card details directly.

9.3 Fee Changes

AgriLinkage LLC may modify fees with thirty (30) days' notice. Continued use of paid services after notice constitutes acceptance of new fees.

9.4 Refund Policy

To provide flexibility and ensure businesses feel secure, fees are refundable at AgriLinkage LLC's sole discretion on a case-by-case basis. Refund requests should be submitted to contact@agrilinkage.com with supporting reasons.

AgriLinkage LLC aims to process valid refunds promptly, typically within 30 days, and may offer full or partial refunds for reasons such as service dissatisfaction, overcharges, or cancellations prior to service delivery. This flexible policy complies with consumer protection laws (e.g., FTC guidelines in the U.S.) while protecting AgriLinkage LLC from abuse. No refunds are guaranteed, but AgriLinkage LLC commits to fair evaluation.

9.5 Taxes

Users are responsible for all applicable taxes related to their use of Platform services. Fees are exclusive of taxes unless otherwise stated.

AgriLinkage LLC complies with all tax laws, including collecting and remitting sales tax, VAT, GST, or similar where required (e.g., under U.S. state tax laws, EU VAT Directive, and international treaties). AgriLinkage LLC maintains records for tax audits and cooperates with government authorities to demonstrate compliance. Users must provide tax-exempt status documentation if applicable; otherwise, taxes will be charged.

9.6 Late Payment

Unpaid fees may result in service suspension and additional charges as permitted by law. Interest on late payments may accrue at the lesser of 1.5% per month or the maximum rate allowed by law.

9.7 Tax Compliance Assurance

AgriLinkage LLC adheres to IRS guidelines, state tax regulations, and international tax treaties (e.g., OECD Model Tax Convention) by accurately reporting income, withholding taxes where necessary, and filing required forms (e.g., Form 1099 for U.S. contractors). This ensures government entities can verify AgriLinkage LLC's tax compliance.

10. PRIVACY AND DATA PROTECTION

10.1 Privacy Policy

Our collection, use, and protection of personal information is governed by our Privacy Policy, which is incorporated into these Terms by reference and available on the Platform.

10.2 Data Processing Legal Basis

We process Personal Data based on:

Contractual necessity for Platform operation
Legitimate interests in business operations (e.g., fraud prevention, analytics)
Legal compliance requirements
User consent where required (e.g., for marketing)

10.3 International Data Transfers

Personal Data may be transferred to and processed in countries other than your country of residence. AgriLinkage LLC implements appropriate safeguards, such as Standard Contractual Clauses (SCCs) under GDPR, Binding Corporate Rules, or adequacy decisions, to ensure compliance with laws like GDPR (EU 2016/679), UK GDPR, and CCPA.

10.4 Data Retention

We retain Personal Data as necessary for Platform operation, legal compliance, and legitimate business purposes. Retention periods vary: account data for up to 7 years post-termination for tax compliance (per IRS rules); logs for 1 year for security. Data is deleted or anonymized when no longer needed, in line with laws like GDPR's storage limitation principle.

10.5 User Rights

Subject to applicable law, Users may have rights to access, correct, delete, or restrict processing of their Personal Data (e.g., under GDPR Articles 15-22, CCPA Sections 1798.100-1798.105, Brazil's LGPD, Canada's PIPEDA, Australia's Privacy Act 1988, and South Africa's POPIA).

Rights requests should be submitted to contact@agrilinkage.com. AgriLinkage LLC responds within statutory timelines (e.g., 30 days under CCPA, 1 month under GDPR) and verifies requester identity to prevent unauthorized access.

10.6 Data Security

AgriLinkage LLC implements reasonable technical and organizational measures to protect Personal Data, including encryption (e.g., AES-256), access controls, regular audits, and incident response plans. We adhere to standards like ISO 27001, NIST Cybersecurity Framework, and comply with laws such as HIPAA (if health data involved), though not typically applicable.

In case of a breach, we notify affected Users and authorities as required (e.g., within 72 hours under GDPR Article 33).

10.7 Adherence to Specific Laws

GDPR (EU/EEA): AgriLinkage LLC acts as a data controller, conducts Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs) for high-risk processing, appoints a Data Protection Officer (DPO) if required, and ensures lawful bases for processing. We adhere by obtaining explicit consent for sensitive data, providing transparent notices, and enabling data portability.

CCPA/CPRA (California): We disclose categories of Personal Data collected (e.g., identifiers, commercial info), sources, and purposes. Users can opt-out of sales (though we do not "sell" data as defined), and we honor deletion requests unless exceptions apply (e.g., for legal compliance). Annual metrics are reported as required.

LGPD (Brazil): Processing is based on legitimate purposes; we maintain records of processing activities and respond to ANPD inquiries.

PIPEDA (Canada): We follow the 10 fair information principles, including accountability, consent, and safeguarding.

HIPAA (U.S., if applicable): Though not core, if health data is involved, we use Business Associate Agreements (BAAs).

Other Laws: Compliance with Virginia's CDPA, Colorado's CPA, Utah's UCPA, Connecticut's CTDPA, and international equivalents like India's DPDP Act by implementing privacy-by-design, conducting audits, and training staff. AgriLinkage LLC regularly reviews adherence through internal audits and third-party assessments to cover all jurisdictions where Users may reside.

10.8 Data Collection Practices

Data is collected minimally: via forms (with consent), cookies (with opt-in where required), and public sources. We do not collect sensitive data without explicit consent and limit sharing to Verified Businesses for legitimate purposes.

10.9 Children's Privacy

The Platform is not intended for children under 18 (or equivalent age). We comply with COPPA (U.S.) by not knowingly collecting data from minors.

11. INTERNATIONAL TRADE AND EXPORT CONTROLS

11.1 Export Control Compliance

Users must comply with all applicable export control laws and regulations, including those of the United States (e.g., EAR, ITAR), European Union (e.g., Dual-Use Regulation), United Nations sanctions, and other relevant jurisdictions.

Users are prohibited from using the Platform to facilitate transactions involving:

Sanctioned countries, entities, or individuals (e.g., OFAC lists)
Controlled or prohibited goods and technologies
Activities that violate export control laws

11.2 Sanctions Screening

AgriLinkage LLC may screen Users and transactions against sanctions lists (e.g., OFAC SDN, EU Consolidated List) and may suspend or terminate accounts based on screening results, without liability.

11.3 Trade Documentation

Users engaging in international trade through Platform connections are responsible for obtaining all required licenses, permits, and documentation, including ECCNs for U.S. exports.

11.4 Customs and Import Compliance

Users are responsible for compliance with customs and import regulations in relevant jurisdictions, including HTS codes and duties.

11.5 Additional Protections

AgriLinkage LLC disclaims liability for User violations and may report suspicious activities to authorities (e.g., BIS, OFAC).

12. PLATFORM AVAILABILITY AND TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS

12.1 Service Availability

While we strive for continuous Platform availability, we do not guarantee uninterrupted service. The Platform may be unavailable due to maintenance, technical issues, or other factors beyond our control. AgriLinkage LLC aims for 99% uptime but provides no SLA guarantees.

12.2 System Requirements

Users are responsible for ensuring their systems meet minimum technical requirements for Platform access, including compatible browsers (e.g., latest Chrome, Firefox), internet connectivity (broadband recommended), and security software. AgriLinkage LLC is not liable for compatibility issues.

12.3 Platform Updates

We may update, modify, or discontinue Platform features at any time with or without notice. Users must update apps or software as required.

12.4 Data Backup

Users are responsible for backing up their own data. AgriLinkage LLC recommends Users maintain copies of important Documentation and information. AgriLinkage LLC performs regular backups but disclaims liability for data loss.

12.5 Downtime Liability

AgriLinkage LLC is not liable for losses due to downtime, including business interruptions.

13. THIRD-PARTY SERVICES AND LINKS

13.1 Third-Party Services

The Platform may integrate with or link to third-party services, websites, or applications. AgriLinkage LLC is not responsible for third-party services and does not endorse their content or practices.

13.2 Third-Party Terms

Use of third-party services is subject to their respective terms and conditions. Users should review third-party terms before use. AgriLinkage LLC disclaims liability for third-party actions.

13.3 Payment Processors

Payment processing is handled by third-party providers (e.g., Stripe, PayPal) subject to their terms and privacy policies. Users indemnify AgriLinkage LLC for processor-related issues.

13.4 Links Disclaimer

Links to external sites are for convenience; AgriLinkage LLC does not control or warrant their content.

14. DISCLAIMERS AND WARRANTIES

14.1 Platform Disclaimer

THE PLATFORM IS PROVIDED "AS IS" AND "AS AVAILABLE" WITHOUT WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND. AGRILINKAGE LLC DISCLAIMS ALL WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO:

MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE
NON-INFRINGEMENT OF THIRD-PARTY RIGHTS
ACCURACY, COMPLETENESS, OR RELIABILITY OF CONTENT
UNINTERRUPTED OR ERROR-FREE OPERATION

14.2 Information Accuracy

AGRILINKAGE LLC MAKES NO REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES REGARDING THE ACCURACY, COMPLETENESS, OR RELIABILITY OF SUPPLIER INFORMATION, DOCUMENTATION, OR VERIFICATION SCORES. USERS MUST INDEPENDENTLY VERIFY ALL DATA.

14.3 User Relationship Disclaimer

AGRILINKAGE LLC DOES NOT GUARANTEE THE QUALITY, SAFETY, LEGALITY, OR AUTHENTICITY OF SUPPLIERS OR THEIR PRODUCTS/SERVICES. USERS ENGAGE WITH SUPPLIERS AT THEIR OWN RISK.

14.4 Geographic Disclaimer

Some jurisdictions do not allow disclaimer of warranties, so the above disclaimers may not apply to you to the extent prohibited by law.

14.5 No Advice

Content on the Platform is not legal, financial, or professional advice. AgriLinkage LLC disclaims liability for reliance thereon.

15. LIMITATION OF LIABILITY

15.1 Liability Limitation

TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, AGRILINKAGE LLC'S TOTAL LIABILITY ARISING FROM OR RELATING TO THESE TERMS OR THE PLATFORM SHALL NOT EXCEED THE AMOUNT PAID BY USER TO AGRILINKAGE LLC IN THE TWELVE (12) MONTHS PRECEDING THE CLAIM.

15.2 Excluded Damages

IN NO EVENT SHALL AGRILINKAGE LLC BE LIABLE FOR:

INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES
LOSS OF PROFITS, REVENUE, DATA, OR BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES
DAMAGES ARISING FROM USER RELATIONSHIPS WITH SUPPLIERS OR BUYERS
DAMAGES RESULTING FROM THIRD-PARTY ACTIONS OR CONTENT

15.3 Essential Purpose

The limitations in this Section apply even if remedies fail their essential purpose and regardless of the theory of liability (contract, tort, etc.).

15.4 Geographic Limitations

Some jurisdictions do not allow limitation of liability, so these limitations may not apply to you to the extent prohibited.

15.5 Aggregate Liability

Liability is aggregate for all claims and applies worldwide.

16. INDEMNIFICATION

16.1 User Indemnification

You agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless AgriLinkage LLC, its officers, directors, employees, agents, and affiliates from and against all claims, damages, costs, and expenses (including reasonable attorneys' fees) arising from or relating to:

Your use of the Platform
Your violation of these Terms or applicable law
Your User Content or Documentation
Your relationships with other Users
Infringement of third-party rights by your activities
Any tax liabilities arising from your transactions

16.2 AgriLinkage LLC Defense Rights

AgriLinkage LLC reserves the right to assume exclusive defense and control of any matter subject to indemnification, in which case you will cooperate with our defense efforts at your expense.

16.3 Settlement Authority

You may not settle any claim without AgriLinkage LLC's prior written consent.

17. DISPUTE RESOLUTION AND GOVERNING LAW

17.1 Governing Law

These Terms are governed by the laws of the State of Illinois, United States, without regard to conflict of law principles. For international Users, AgriLinkage LLC complies with mandatory local laws where applicable, but Illinois law controls to the extent permitted.

17.2 Jurisdiction

Any legal action or proceeding arising under these Terms will be brought exclusively in the federal or state courts located in Cook County, Illinois, and you consent to the jurisdiction and venue of such courts, waiving any objections.

17.3 Arbitration Agreement

Any dispute, claim, or controversy arising out of or relating to these Terms or the Platform shall be settled by binding arbitration administered by the American Arbitration Association under its Commercial Arbitration Rules. The arbitration shall be conducted in Chicago, Illinois, by a single arbitrator. Judgment on the award may be entered in any court with jurisdiction.

17.4 Class Action Waiver

You agree to resolve disputes individually and waive any right to bring or participate in class, collective, or representative actions.

17.5 Injunctive Relief

Notwithstanding the arbitration requirement, either party may seek injunctive relief in court for intellectual property violations, confidentiality breaches, or other matters that could cause