Automatic translations are becoming an increasingly popular tool in language support for export - from business correspondence to technical documents and contracts. Unfortunately, their improper use, especially without verification by a specialist, can lead to serious legal and financial consequences. Here are seven real-life examples that show how a seemingly minor mistake can cause serious difficulties.

1. Error in a safety data sheet (Brazil)

Automatic translation of SDS (Safety Data Sheet for chemical substances) from English to Portuguese caused the document to be rejected by the Brazilian customs office as incomplete.
Consequence: delay in clearance, administrative penalty, downtime at the recipient.
Conclusion: Technical documentation must be translated by people familiar with local requirements.

2. Translation of medical instructions (Romania)

The respirator user manual was translated automatically, and the sentence "lack of pressure" was translated as "too high pressure." The hospital turned off the device, considering it to be damaged.
Consequence: equipment downtime, risk to patients, manufacturer's liability. 
Conclusion: In the medical industry, incorrect translation can have critical consequences.

3. Accident at a machine (France)

A construction machine operation manual, translated into French by AI, did not contain a clear warning about the need to disconnect power before maintenance. 
Consequence: operator's accident, court process, obligation to pay compensation. 
Conclusion: Translations must comply with local occupational health and safety standards.

4. Incorrect terminology in a contract (China)

In a contract with a Chinese client, the word "warranty" was incorrectly translated into Chinese as a full liability guarantee ("guarantee") instead of a limited one (which would be the equivalent of "warranty"). 
Consequence: the client demanded repairs beyond the scope of responsibility, leading to a legal dispute and high costs. 
Conclusion: Legal terminology must be precisely tailored to the local legal system.

5. General User Manual (Germany)

A German importer received instructions translated from Japanese by a non-specialist translator. There was a lack of technical terminology - the operators incorrectly started the machine. 
Consequence: equipment damage, production downtime. 
Conclusion: Technical language must be in accordance with local industry practice.

6. Translation of customs documentation (Egypt)

On the packing list, the word "screwdriver" was translated as "specialized vehicle disassembly tool". 
Consequence: seizure of the shipment by the customs office as equipment subject to import restrictions, delays, additional costs. 
Conclusion: Export documentation requires maximum language accuracy.

7. Error in translating a court ruling (Poland)

A sworn translator incorrectly conveyed the party’s status in a judgment from a Czech court. The Polish authority rejected the document as invalid. 
Consequence: delay in the commercial proceedings. 
Conclusion: In official translations, compliance with the local legal language is important.

Recommendation for exporters

Effective communication in your contractor's country is a valuable currency in international trade. Therefore, entrust AI-supported export translations to experts who guarantee professional execution in accordance with the original message.

Studio Gambit is a technologically advanced translation services provider that effectively combines the capabilities of artificial intelligence with the skills of professional translators. Thanks to this, it can provide the cheapest AI translations with top-tier quality.

Would you like to know how to safely use AI in translations for your industry? Then get in touch.