How To Fix 88172 - &3 is already defined as main re.partner in company code &1, country &2

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: 88 - REA Processing

• Message number: 172

• Message text: &3 is already defined as main re.partner in company code &1, country &2

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message 88172 - &3 is already defined as main re.partner in company code &1, country &2 ?

  The SAP error message "88172 &3 is already defined as main re.partner in company code &1, country &2" typically occurs when you are trying to create or modify a business partner (BP) in SAP, and the system detects that the business partner you are trying to define is already set as the main relationship partner for the specified company code and country.
  Cause:
  
  Duplicate Business Partner: The business partner you are trying to create or modify is already defined as the main relationship partner for the specified company code and country.
  Incorrect Data Entry: There may be a mistake in the data entry, such as trying to assign the same business partner to multiple roles or relationships that conflict with existing definitions.
  Configuration Issues: There may be configuration settings in the system that are causing this conflict.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Existing Business Partners: 
  
  Go to the business partner transaction (BP) and check if the business partner already exists for the specified company code and country.
  If it does exist, you may need to modify the existing entry instead of creating a new one.
  
  
  
  Review Relationships:
  
  If you need to change the main relationship partner, you may need to remove the existing main relationship or change the role of the current business partner before assigning a new one.
  
  
  
  Use Different Business Partner:
  
  If the business partner is already defined as the main relationship partner, consider using a different business partner for the new entry.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP documentation or help resources for more details on business partner management and relationships.
  
  
  
  Contact SAP Support:
  
  If you are unable to resolve the issue, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting SAP notes for any known issues or patches related to this error.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Business Partner Roles: Understand the different roles that a business partner can have in SAP and how they relate to company codes and countries.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as BP (Business Partner) for managing business partners.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific fixes or updates related to this error message.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the error and take appropriate action to resolve it.