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The Legal 500 - Asia Pacific (2024)

R&T Sok & Heng Law Office – Cambodia

Leading Firm - Tier 2

Leading Lawyers:
Chhay Heng

Key Lawyers:
Sophonnora Tiv
Sotheary Hout

R&T Sok & Heng Law Office is adept in advising clients on complex and high-value corporate and commercial matters, with particular emphasis on cross-border transactions and M&A. The group notably advised Coca Cola on its USD 1bn disposal of its bottling operations in Cambodia and Vietnam. The firm is also noted for its active capital markets and banking & finance practices. Managing partner Chhay Heng frequently advises local and multinational corporations on M&A, real estate developments, and insolvency related matters. Sophonnora Tiv heads the firm’s capital markets practice whilst Sotheary Hout heads the corporate and commercial practice.

Testimonials
‘Honest, competent and insightful.’

‘Clear and simple communication; they are straight to the point and always provide solutions with the best interest of the clients in mind.’

Leading Lawyers:
Ahmad Fikri Assegaf – Banking and Finance
Ahmad Maulana – Labour and Employment
Alvin Ambardy - Aviation
Asep Ridwan – Antitrust and Competition
Chandra Hamzah – Dispute Resolution, Intellectual Property
Dewi Soeharto – Intellectual Property
Eri Hertiawan – Dispute Resolution, Restructuring and Insolvency
Farid Nasution – Antitrust and Competition
HMBC Rikrik Rizkiyana – Antitrust and Competition
Ibrahim Sjarief Assegaf – Aviation, Projects and Energy, Restructuring and Insolvency
Kanya Satwika – Projects and Energy
Mohammad Renaldi Zulkarnain – Capital Markets
Yogi Sudrajat Marsono – Real Estate
Zacky Hussein – IT, Telecoms and Fintech

Next Generation Lawyers:
Intan Paramita – Capital Markets

Rising Stars:
Carol Lim – Corporate and M&A
Wildan Lukman Nurmajid – Shipping

Hall of Fame:
Ahmad Fikri Assegaf – Capital Market; Corporate and M&A
Bono Daru Adji – Capital Markets

Key Lawyers:
Ahmad Fikri Assegaf – Capital Markets
Albert Boy Situmorang – Antitrust and Competition
Angelica Ayu Maharani – Corporate and M&A
Ari Juliano Gema – Intellectual Property
Asep Ridwan – Antitrust and Competition
Bono Daru Adji – Capital Markets, Corporate and M&A
Carol Lim - Corporate and M&A
Harun Ngantung - Banking and Finance
Heru Pamungkas – Dispute Resolution, Real Estate
Indira Yustikania - Banking and Finance
Intan Paramita – Projects and Energy
Mita Kartohadiprodjo - Corporate and M&A
Mohammad Renaldi Zulkarnain – Capital Markets
Muhammad Iqsan Sirie – IT, Telecoms and Fintech
Muhamad Kamal Fikri – Labour and Employment
Simon Barrie Sasmoyo – Dispute Resolution
Tracy Tania – Restructuring and Insolvency
Tunggul Purusa Utomo – Capital Markets, Corporate and M&A
Valerie Ngoi Ming Hui - Corporate and M&A
Vovo Iswanto – Antitrust and Competition
Wildan Lukman Nurmajid - Shipping
Yanu Wiriasmoko - Shipping

Antitrust and Competition
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners' team is very well known for its solid track record in advising on merger filings and notifications to the Indonesian Competition Commission (KPPU). The practice leverages the firm's expertise in corporate law and dispute resolution to assist with competition litigation and compliance issues. HMBC stands out for his expertise in handling high-profile merger clearances; he co-heads the practice with Farid Nasution, whose workload takes in contentious competition matters and compliance mandates. Vovo Iswanto, Asep Ridwan and newly promoted partner Albert Boy Situmorang are key names to note.

Aviation
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners is primarily focussed on disputes in the aviation space, covering cases relating to tort claims brought by passengers, allegations of cartel made by the KPPU, and contract breaches. The firm also has capabilities in relation to complex restructuring and insolvency-related mandates, with experience advising major carriers in their high-profile insolvency proceedings. Eri Hertiawan leads on the firm’s aviation work and, being the co-head of the firm’s disputes practice, has particular expertise in disputes involving airline clients. Ibrahim Sjarief Assegaf, as head of banking, finance, and projects work, is active in relation to insolvency proceedings in this space, and senior associate Alvin Ambardy, besides his predominantly arbitration-based practice, is similarly of note for his work relating to insolvency matters.

Banking and Finance
The banking and finance practice at Assegaf Hamzah & Partners is noted for its strengths in the fintech space, and its strong experience in assisting Chinese investors with mandates involving foreign direct investment into Indonesia. Led by structured finance expert Ibrahim Sjarief Assegaf, the team regularly acts for Indonesian government agencies and regulators. Ahmad Fikri Assegaf advises on venture capital, private equity, and corporate financing matters, and Harun Ngantung fields extensive experience in handling syndicated lending, structured and leveraged finance, and refinancing transactions. Indira Yustikania is a key name for fintech mandates.

Capital Markets
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners covers the full gamut of capital market matters, covering both public and private debt and equity offerings, with a particular strength in advising on the structure and implementation of Shariah-compliant financing and investment transactions. As a a part of the Rajah and Tann Asia network, the firm is able to draw upon the expertise from other Asian jurisdictions, and is otherwise noted for its strengths in the energy, natural resources, and financial sectors. Putu Suryastuti heads up this work, employing her corporate transactional expertise to IPOs, secondary offerings, private placements, and debt offerings. Ahmad Fikri Assegaf valued for the breadth of his experience, while Bono Adji and Tunggul Utomo have a greater emphasis on the natural resources, energy, telecoms, and finance industries. Mohammad Zulkarnain and Intan Paramita are highly active in this area and crucial contacts.

Testimonials
‘The team have robust and in-depth knowledge of capital markets.’

‘Intan Paramita is fast to respond and has a creative mindset.’

‘Professional experts. They thoroughly understand capital market and give insights and advices accordingly to the situation.’

‘They have in-depth knowledge of the market, and provide us with solutions. They are able to quickly understand our needs and provide us with investment options that are tailored to our specific goals.’

‘The capital markets team at AHP is very professional and responsive. Their experiences and connections with relevant authorities make their legal opinion efficient and practical.’

Corporate and M&A
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners combines regional strengths, drawing on the expertise and resources of the Rajah & Tann Asia network, with wide-ranging capabilities in the corporate space, supported by the firm’s competition and tax practices. Eko Basyuni leads the practice, covering the full range of M&A, joint ventures, FDI, and restructurings for clients from a range of sectors. Name partner Ahmad Fikri Assegaf remains an active team member. Other lawyers of note include Tunggul Utomo, Valerie Ngooi Ming Hui, Mita Kartohadiprodjo, Bono Adji, Angelica Maharani, and foreign counsel Carol Lim.

Testimonials
‘The AHP team is very diversified. They are able to provide solutions across various industries. Further, they are very connected with government authorities bringing unparalleled values to respond to client needs.’

‘AHP lawyers are committed to aggressive deadlines and high demands.’

‘Valerie Ngooi Ming Hui is very effective in drafting legal documents. She makes sure she fully understands the client’s needs which helps her speak in the client’s language when negotiating complex issues with counterparties.’

‘Very knowledgeable. not just identifying issues but also providing solutions. Big fan of Tunggul Purusa Utomo and his team.’

‘Tunggul Purusa Utomo understands the client’s needs and is able to provide solutions. Understands that every project is different. Hardly every uses templated solutions and thus caters individually for clients.’

Dispute Resolution
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners' practice is home to a sizeable corporate litigation team which handles the gamut of dispute resolution matters, including alternative dispute resolution (ADR). The group leverages the bench strength of the Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP Asia network to assist with a range of contentious cross-border matters. Department co-heads Chandra Hamzah and Eri Hertiawan are highly regarded practitioners, with established expertise in handling both litigation and arbitration. Simon Barrie Sasmoyo is experienced in handling complex cases involving financial and anti-corruption disputes. Heru Pamungkas was promoted to partner in April 2023.

Intellectual Property
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners draws on the extensive litigation expertise of practice co-head Chandra Hamzah to provide clients with a strong contentious offering in the IP space, with a particular strength in advising the defendants in such actions. C0-head Dewi Soeharto focusses more on the n0n-contentious side of IP, working for a number of international clients from both the wider region and globally in their Indonesian patent registrations, particularly those relating to tech and energy. Ari Juliano Gema is also of note.

IT, Telecoms and FinTech
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners combines its regulatory and finance sector expertise with experience relating to tech, providing a full suite of TMT-related services across data protection, cybersecurity, telecoms, compliance, and more corporate work such as M&A, merger control, and finance. Zacky Zainal Husein heads the TMT practice, working across the full spectrum of matters for major multinational and domestic Indonesian companies. Indira Yustikania is the key contact in the firm for fintech matters as the lead partner on this work, but Muhammad Iqsan Sirie is similarly of note for work in the crypto space in addition to his specialism in data protection and cybersecurity.

Labour and Employment
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners works closely with its dispute resolution team to handle employment disputes; its recent caseload also includes advising on employment contracts, outsourcing, redundancy, labour unions, and the employment of foreign workers. As part of the Rajah & Tann Asia network, it draws on regional resources to assist multinational clients with regional employment issues. Ahmad Maulana is a key name to note, combining general dispute expertise with experience in employment matters. Muhamad Kamal Fikri has a broad dispute expertise that extends to mediation and arbitration.

Testimonials
‘Assegaf Hamzah & Partners possesses a depth of knowledge on the labour and employment regulatory framework and its implementation that sets them apart from most top-tier firms. Its close engagement with regulatory authorities provides clients with an accurate view from the regulator’s perspective, delivering invaluable insights that guide strategic decisions. What truly distinguishes AHP is its ability to understand the intricacies of the industry landscape and practices, allowing it to offer advice that not only aligns with regulatory requirements but also addresses our unique business needs. Moreover, AHP’s commitment to excellent delivery and rapid turnaround time ensures that we receive timely, top-notch legal counsel.’

‘Ahmad Maulana’s profound expertise in labour and employment practices is unmatched, providing us with guidance in navigating complex regulatory frameworks and implementations. His depth of expertise has provided us with helpful regulatory advice and has helped us make strategic decisions. Beyond this, Ahmad possesses an unparalleled understanding of industry dynamics, offering tailored advice that harmonizes with our business needs. His swift turnaround times showcase his reliability as a counsel and by making himself readily available during our critical times and for urgent matters. Ahmad often goes beyond the traditional role of a legal advisor which makes him a great business partner. When working with Ahmad Maulana, we not only gain access to a legal expert but also a trusted ally who is there to navigate challenges and seize opportunities alongside us.’

‘AHP’s team is very responsive to our inquiries. Their level of service is of a top-tier law firm, provided in a thorough and timely manner and catered to our needs.’

‘Ahmad Maulana’s familiarity with the provisions of employment law, including the practical aspect, has helped us greatly in navigating the complexity of the issue and preparing a prudent decision.’

Projects and Energy
Experienced in assisting private and public entities alike in major infrastructure projects, Assegaf Hamzah & Partners handles PPP and foreign direct investment projects, power purchase agreements and long-term oil and gas supply agreements as well as joint-operating matters. The team is led by Ibrahim Sjarief Assegaf and Kanya Satwika. Assegaf represents both domestic and international financial institutions on structured finance and debt-restructuring matters, while Satwika is involved in projects related to the government’s power expansion programme and renewable energy initiatives. Insan Paramita focuses on geothermal power and electricity projects in addition to advising clients in the oil & gas sector.

Real Estate
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners acts for major local and foreign clients in all sectors of real estate on issues relating to residential, commercial and industrial properties. In addition, it has assisted clients in land procurement matters regarding infrastructure work and industrial development as well as dispute resolution. Yogi Sudrajat Marsono, who heads the real estate practice, has represented clients on real estate M&A, asset management and construction agreements. Also of note is Heru Pamungkas who focuses on dispute resolution and was promoted to partner in March 2023.

Testimonials
‘The team is very approachable, I love the way they are always available and that they are able to translate legal information into business context for our commercial team.‘

‘AHP’s real estate team is a team that is able to marry their resources of strong lawyers from other various fields.‘

Restructuring and Insolvency
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners has industry strength across the government, financial services, energy, manufacturing, construction and aviation sectors, and has a track record in assisting with some of the most high-profile restructures of major corporate debtors and other stakeholders. The practice is able to draw on the wider capabilities of the firm, with practice head Ibrahim Sjarief Assegaf leveraging his banking and finance expertise to assist related operators with their debt restructuring and insolvency mandates. Eri Hertiawan has extensive disputes experience which he deploys in representing his clients in the proceedings around their restructures. Tracy Tania focuses on transactional matters with a nexus to restructuring and insolvency.

Shipping
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners provides a complete service for its clients in the shipping sector. This includes financial matters, security enforcement, collisions, charter parties, securitization, natural resource transportation and marine insurance. The firm’s membership of the Rajah & Tann Asia network allows it to draw legal expertise and resources from other Asian jurisdictions, enabling a seamless service for its clients in shipping matters that are frequently multi-jurisdictional. Eri Hertiawan, an experienced litigator and ADR specialist in shipping law, leads the shipping practice alongside Ibrahim Sjarief Assegaf and Chandra Hamzah. Another noted practitioner is Wildan Lukman Nurmajid for the primary focus of his practice being vessel financing and acquisitions.

Tax
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners covers a full spectrum of contentious and non-contentions tax and customs issues. Advising domestic and international clients on a range of matters including transactions, the firm is well-versed on judicial review requests to the Supreme Court, transfer pricing and investment structuring. Nazly Parlindungan Siregar leads and draws on 20 years of experience in international tax consisting of cross-border M&A, global business model optimisation and international tax advisory.

Rajah & Tann (Laos) Co., Ltd. – Lao PDR

Leading Firm – Tier 2

Christopher & Lee Ong – Malaysia

Antitrust and Competition – Tier 1
Banking and Finance – Tier 2
Capital Markets – Tier 3
Corporate and M&A – Tier 1
Dispute Resolution – Tier 3
Intellectual Property – Tier 1
Labour and Employment – Tier 2
Projects and Energy – Tier 1
Real Estate and Construction – Tier 2
Shipping – Tier 1
TMT (Including Fintech) – Tier 1

Leading Lawyers:
Adrian Chee – Banking and Finance, Islamic Finance
Chor Jack – Projects and Energy
Christopher Lee – Projects and Energy
Kelvin Kho – Labour & Employment
Kuok Yew Chen – Corporate and M&A
Lim Hui Ming – Real Estate and Construction
Siaw Wan Lim – Projects and Energy
Sri Sarguna Raj – Intellectual Property
Yon See Ting – Antitrust and Competition, Corporate and M&A

Next Generation Lawyers:
Anissa Maria Anis – TMT (Including Fintech)
Chor Jack – Banking and Finance
Jane Guan – Antitrust and Competition
Jennifer Lee - Banking and Finance, Capital Markets
Rubini Murugesan – Labour and Employment
Yong Shih Han – TMT (Including Fintech)

Hall of Fame:
Adrian Chee – Capital Markets
Clieve Navin Selvapandian - Shipping
Deepak Pillai – TMT (Including Fintech)
Intan Haryati – TMT (Including Fintech)
Kuok Yew Chen – TMT (Including Fintech)

Key Lawyers:
Annette Soh – Corporate and M&A, Capital Markets
Chor Jack – Corporate and M&A
Heng Yee Keat – Dispute Resolution
Lim Siaw Wan - Projects and Energy
Kelvin Kho – Corporate and M&A, Real Estate and Construction
Nicole Chong - Intellectual Property
Por Chuei Ying - Shipping
Steven Cheok - Intellectual Property
Teo Siang Ly – Banking and Finance
Tracy Wong - Corporate and M&A

Antitrust and Competition
Christopher & Lee Ong has cemented itself as one of the leading firms in the antitrust and competition arena. By virtue of its membership of the Rajah & Tann Asia group, the department is well-positioned to provide a wealth of tech-enabled solutions. Offering a full service to its clients, the firm regularly advises international multinational corporations, banks, government organisations, and international counsels. Key strengths include advising on competition law concerns in the telecoms industry, conducting due diligence, acting as counsel in M&A transactions, and carrying out comprehensive audits and reviews of clients’ business operations. Yon See Ting heads the team, and Jane Guan has been instrumental in growing the competition practice. Both practitioners are praised as ‘approachable and collaborative, with deep expertise in competition law’.

Banking and Finance
Christopher & Lee Ong prides itself on providing an expansive range of banking and finance advisory services to a plethora of local and international banks and financial institutions. On account of its association with the Rajah & Tann Asia Network, the firm benefits from an established network of practitioners across the Southeast Asia region, strengthening its ability to provide a high-quality service to multinational corporations and Malaysian enterprises. Much of the firm’s work centres on syndicated lending, project financing, Islamic finance, and debt restructuring. Christopher Lee and Fiona Sequerah head the team and are experienced practitioners who are well-regarded within the banking and finance spheres. Chor Jack leads on several engagements and has recently been tasked with leading the department’s sustainability practice on matters including sustainability linked financing, while Teo Siang Ly has experience in advising corporate borrowers on financing matters.

Capital Markets
On account of its membership of Rajah & Tann Asia, Christopher & Lee Ong is well-positioned to advise clients on various cross-border capital market mandates, particularly across Malaysia, Singapore, and Hong Kong. The department is headed by Yon See Ting, Annette Soh, and Fiona Sequerah, whose combined experience enables the firm to offer advice on IPOs, corporate governance rules, sale and purchase agreements, and due diligence concerns. Advising clients on debt fundraising exercises also lies within the firm’s scope of activity.

Corporate and M&A
The practice at Christopher & Lee Ong harnesses an ‘in-depth understanding of market practices’ in the corporate and M&A arena. The team’s workload includes a variety of matters, spanning the full lifecycle of transactions on behalf of its industry-spanning domestic and multinational client roster, while providing support on regulatory approvals and compliance mandates, in addition to competition and antitrust issues, and industry-specific concerns. The practice also sees high-stakes M&A bidding and structuring matters through to execution. The team is collectively led by Yon See Ting, Kuok Yew Chen and Yau Yee Ming, who bring a wealth of experience in cross-border transactions, Christopher Lee, Por Chuei Ying, See Hua Chua, and Anette Soh. Other key contacts in the group include Kelvin Kho and consultant Lee Hock Chye.

Dispute Resolution
The dispute resolution department at Christopher & Lee Ong offers services covering various elements of the practice including arbitration, general litigation, and adjudication. John Mathew leads the team and is a recognised panel arbitrator with the Asian International Arbitration Centre, while other advocates within the team draw strengths from their collective trial and appellate experience. The group is well-versed in handling disputes relating to joint ventures, directors and shareholder duties, and insolvency and restructuring matters

Intellectual Property
Christopher & Lee Ong’s offering consists of IP work across the spectrum, ranging from IP protection and registration, valuation and transactional work, to litigation and the enforcement of IP rights. Recognised for its ability to handle both contentious and non-contentious matters, the firm acts for multinationals and conglomerates across various industries, such as pharmaceutical, aerospace, e-commerce, and telecoms. Sri Sarguna Raj spearheads the team and is an expert in representing clients in IP disputes relating to patents and trade secrets, while also implementing anti-piracy and anti-counterfeiting programmes. Steven Cheok is a valuable member of the team and focuses primarily on IP enforcement cases.

Labour and Employment
Christopher & Lee Ong’s team advises its client roster on the full scope of labour and employment work, including domestic and cross-border advisory matters ranging from unfair dismissal, breaches of contract and redundancies to mandates concerning alleged force labour and harassment in the workplace. The practice also has demonstrable experience in handling litigious cases, a key focus for Rubini Murugesan. Yau Yee Ming jointly spearheads the team alongside Kelvin Kho, who takes a ‘solutions-oriented approach and provides high-quality advice’ on employment compliance issues.

Projects and Energy
Noted for its ‘very direct and focused approach towards issues’, the projects and energy practice at Christopher & Lee Ong is led by Christopher Lee, who has expertise in banking and finance, M&A and infrastructure, all of which he readily applies to the transactions on which he advises. The team’s workload includes advising on land-use rights, power purchases and cross-border exports of energy. It notably works on matters at the forefront of the sector, including advising on the 5G rollout in Malaysia. It frequently supports on energy projects from inception to completion. Lim Siaw Wan is a key practitioner in the team, vastly experienced in handling high-value energy deals for the team’s client portfolio. The ‘innovative and practical’ Chor Jack, who has a particular focus on complex renewables projects, is another key contact in the group. Eileen Yeoh departed to an in-house role in 2022.

Real Estate and Construction
Christopher & Lee Ong’s real estate practice is jointly led by Lim Hui Ming, who is praised for her ‘exceptional knowledge’ of property and financing matters, and Por Chuei Ying. The firm has a track record for handling large-scale real estate transactions both in Malaysia and neighbouring ASEAN countries. Acting for a range of local and international investors, government-linked corporations, and property funds, the team regularly advises on leases and tenancies, construction disputes, property development, conveyancing, and acquisition financing.

Shipping
Jainil Bhandari who works from the firm’s the Malaysia and Singapore offices, is at the helm of Christopher & Lee Ong’s shipping practice, which is noted for its ‘in-depth knowledge of the field’. The team holds impressive capabilities handling both wet and dry shipping work for key domestic and international clients. Examples of the team’s workload include advising on the high-value sale and purchase of ships and yachts; marine insurance policies; cross-border imports and exports; and the disposal of cargo. In addition to the team’s advisory work, it is also experienced in representing its clients in contentious matters, such as complex ship-arrest proceedings. Standout practitioner in the team Clive Navin Selvapandian is described as having an ‘unwavering commitment to putting clients first’; and is experienced handling the range of shipping cases.

TMT (Including FinTech)
Multinational organisations and conglomerates from industries ranging from banking to e-health beat a path to Christopher & Lee Ong for assistance with issues such as IT and cloud contract negotiations, data breaches, consumer protection laws and sector specific regulatory advice. The practice has additionally seen an increase in instructions relating to the the deployment of artificial intelligence, e-commerce and fintech. Leadership duties are split between Deepak Pillai, whose varied caseload includes commercial and regulatory advice on outsourcing and digital media, and KuokYew Chen, who is well-placed to advise on cross-border transactions. Intan Haryati is frequently active across public and private sector IT turnkey contracts. Anissa Maria Anis is a key contact for clients from the media and entertainment industries, while data protection specialist Yong Shih Han is equipped to advise on an array of regulatory and compliance matters. Yeap Yee Lin is another name to note.

Rajah & Tann Myanmar Company Limited

Corporate and M&A – Tier 2
Projects – Tier 2

Corporate and M&A
Rajah & Tann Myanmar Company Limited support its clients across industries with a particular strength in assisting on fintech matters, such as fintech-related acquisition financings. The firm also advises on regulatory and corporate insurance issues, in addition to its M&A work. Chester Toh and Min Thein jointly lead the practice. Toh advises on the complex licencing and regulatory landscape in Myanmar, while Thein supports international clients in their investments into Myanmar. In January 2023, Myo Thant Swe was promoted to partner.

Projects
Counting domestic infrastructure companies among its key roster of clients, Rajah & Tann Myanmar Company Limited handles a broad range of energy, infrastructure, construction and real estate matters. In the firm's Singapore office, Chester Toh, who handles licensing and regulatory matters, jointly leads the practice alongside Yangon-based Min Thein, who acts for foreign investors on entry into the Myanmar market. Myo Thant Swe, who was promoted to partner in January 2023, is another key contact in the group.

C&G Law (Gatmaytan Yap Patacsil Gutierrez & Protacio) – Philippines

Antitrust and Competition – Tier 1
Banking and Finance – Tier 1
Capital Markets – Tier 3
Corporate and M&A – Tier 2
Dispute Resolution – Tier 1
Immigration – Tier 3
Labour and Employment – Tier 1
Projects and Energy – Tier 1
Real Estate and Construction – Tier 1
Tax – Tier 1
TMT – Tier 2

Leading Lawyers:
Annalisa Carlota – Banking and Finance, Project and Energy
Anthony Gutierrez – Tax
Ben Dominic Yap – Dispute Resolution
Cesar Santamaria Jr – Labour and Employment
Jaime Renato Gatmaytan – Projects and Energy, Real Estate and Construction
Jesus Paolo Protacio – Dispute Resolution
Mary Thel Mundin - TMT

Rising Stars:
Dwight Tan – TMT
Nicolo Mendiola – Labour and Employment

Next Generation Partners
Vladi Miguel Lazaro – Dispute Resolution, Labour and Employment
Katrine Paula Suyat-Antonio - Corporate and M&A , Labour and Employment
Roxanne Tadique – Tax

Key Lawyers:
Analisa Carlota – Real Estate and Construction
Andrea Katipunan – Antitrust and Competition, Projects and Energy, Real Estate and Construction, Corporate and M&A
Anthony Gutierrez - Dispute Resolution
Carlo Cabrito - Immigration
Deborah Sobrepena-Lacson - TMT
Dwight Tan - TMT
Norma Margarita Patacsil – Real Estate and Construction
Vladi Miguel Lazaro - TMT

Antitrust and Competition
The agile team at Gatmaytan Yap Patacsil Gutierrez & Protacio (C&G Law) is headed by Norma Margarita Patacsil and is particularly well-regarded for its expertise assisting its clients in obtaining merger clearances on large transactions. Further, the practice receives a steady flow of instructions on regulatory issues, namely relating to the Philippine Competition Act. The team is also recommended for its provision of advice in relation to alleged anti-competitive behaviour. It is experienced in auditing and compliance competition matters; and in providing competition law training to clients and their employees. Andrea Katipunan is praised for her work on the range of corporate deals she acts on for both domestic and foreign clients, as well as for her expertise in PPPs and government procurements.

Testimonials
‘The competition practice of this firm is very strong. They work with various MNCs and are handling some of the most complex investigations as well mergers ongoing in the Philippines.’

‘Norma, who leads the practice, is very sound and provides effective solution oriented guidance to clients.’

‘The supporting associates are clear-headed, strong in English and draft good submissions that require little amendment.’

Banking and Finance
The team at Gatmaytan Yap Patacsil Gutierrez & Protacio (C&G Law) continues to be busy advising local and international borrowers and lenders on various lending and financing transactions, as well as on a wide range of securities deals. The group, which is co-led by Jaime Renato B. Gatmaytan and Annalisa Carlota, also excels in advising on banking regulations and frequently supports clients on various registration requirements and other applications for approval from the Philippines’ Central Bank. In addition, the practice is skilled at advising on the financing aspects of energy and infrastructure projects further to being highly regarded for its work on green financing mandates, transactions involving the non-performing assets of banks, and matters relating to the technology sector. The firm is also a member of Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP, and as such is well-equipped to work on complex multi-jurisdictional matters.

Testimonials
‘The practice responds to us with quality feedback timely and effectively.’

‘Annalisa Carlota always provides professional services for us.’

Corporate and M&A
Norma Margarita Patacsil heads the group at Gatmaytan Yap Patacsil Gutierrez & Protacio (C&G Law), which continues to be busy advising numerous clients on a variety of significant corporate and commercial transactions across a range of industries. It is skilled at advising on diverse matters such as the incorporation of new entities, governance and compliance, as well as acquisitions and mergers. The group has also assisted several clients in obtaining Philippine Competition Commission approval on some key deals. Andrea Katipunan has a broad practice – she has advised on a variety of public-private partnerships. Katrine Paula Suyat-Antonio has significant experience in government procurement and build-operate-transfer projects.

Testimonials
‘Good size and reputation. Some high-quality partners and associates.’

‘Personable and reasonable. Good sounding boards.’

‘Norge Patacsil is excellent.’

Dispute Resolution
nder the joint leadership of Ben Yap and Jesus Paolo Protacio, the excellent team at Gatmaytan Yap Patacsil Gutierrez & Protacio (C&G Law) is well-equipped to handle a broad range of local and international high-value disputes. Its domestic and international arbitration practice is also well-regarded. The nimble team covers a diverse range of matters from construction and contractual disputes to advising on the enforcement of foreign judgments and arbitral awards. The group is also recognised for its work on major disputes involving the energy sector. Head of the firm’s tax practice group Anthony Mark Gutierrez receives plaudits for his work on a variety of tax disputes and for his focus on commercial litigation. Vladi Miguel Lazaro plays a pivotal role in the department as well, representing clients in tax-related court proceedings against local government units.

Testimonials
‘The firm has continued to provide us with succinct advice on a number of complex matters including taxation and matters of corporate law. Billing has always been clear and fair.’

‘They respond quickly with advice and have been available on short notice for conference calls, and well prepared for interactions when negotiating.’

‘They are very responsive and provide thorough and knowledgeable advice, tailored to the needs of the client.’

‘Jesus Paolo Protacio is very reactive and has a quick grasp of the legal questions involved. He always submits the product well in advance, leaving room for discussion with the client.’

‘Firm’s response is timely and responsive to business requirements.‘

‘Partner in charge Atty. Lazaro provides practical legal advice that is responsive to business requirements.’

Immigration
Gatmaytan Yap Patacsil Gutierrez & Protacio (C&G Law)‘s immigration group frequently advises clients on work permits and visas in addition to special non-immigrant visas for foreign investors. Cesar Santamaria spearheads the group and is supported by associate Carlo Cabrito who is knowledgeable of requests for reconsiderations on orders to leave the Philippines.

Testimonials
‘Integrity, responsiveness, and expertise.’

Labour and Employment
Gatmaytan Yap Patacsil Gutierrez & Protacio (C&G Law)'s team has a standout track-record representing clients in labour disputes before the National Labour Relations Commission and the Supreme Court. It also often advises clients on obtaining working visas and permits. The practice’s workload also includes assisting with employment terminations, internal investigations pertaining to employee fraud or negligence and the preparation and review of employment contracts. Head of the team Cesar Santamaria and Katrine Paula Suyat-Antonio are adept in employment litigation and advisory work, while Vladi Miguel Lazaro is also noted for his capabilities in contentious mandates. Nicolo Mendiola assists multinational companies with reviewing policies and employment contracts to ensure compliance with domestic laws and regulations.

Testimonials
‘C&G Law is very dependable and they are always available to address our concerns. They have been very responsive and proactive and their team is well-staffed and well-trained.’

‘Their client service is outstanding. They have commercial awareness and offer practical legal solutions to issues.’

‘Vladi Lazaro knows the law very well and is good at giving practical examples and suggestions. He also understands regulators’ expectations and how they think in the Philippines, which is useful.’

‘Vladi Lazaro’s advice is always practical and he guides you in the right direction.’

‘Vladi Miguel Lazaro is of the best lawyers we have worked with. He responds to our questions and requests, even at short notice, and is very thorough. He is very reliable and has extensive experience of Philippine law. ’

Projects and Energy
The thriving practice at Gatmaytan Yap Patacsil Gutierrez & Protacio (C&G Law) is highly regarded for its work in the projects, energy and infrastructure sectors. Under the joint leadership of Ben Dominic Yap and Jaime Renato Gatmaytan, it regularly acts as counsel for many of the largest power generation companies operating in the Philippines, as well as for several other industry participants from a wide-range of sectors. Yap works with leading energy companies both on the contentious and non-contentious aspects of their construction, energy, and infrastructure projects. Gatmaytan advises developers and sponsors on tenders for generation projects overseas; Annalisa Carlota is is a projects and finance lawyer with a vast array of experience in energy and infrastructure development in the Philippines and across Asia; and Andrea Katipunan has significant experience in complex energy deals and regulatory matters.

Testimonials
‘The team responded to us quickly and effectively.’

‘Annalisa Carlota has always provided professional services for us. ’

Real Estate and Construction
Gatmaytan Yap Patacsil Gutierrez & Protacio (C&G Law)'s practice is well-equipped to advise its clients on the construction of a range of infrastructure projects including airports, rail systems, roads, and telecoms towers. The department is also experienced in contentious real estate and construction mandates before administrative tribunals, as well as before international and domestic arbitration panels. Team heads Jaime Renato Gatmaytan and Ben Dominic Yap are adept in transactional work in the construction, energy, and infrastructure sectors. Annalisa Carlota handles private and public infrastructure projects across the Philippines and other Asian countries.

Testimonials
‘Annalisa Carlota provided a professional service.’

‘Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP responded to us with quality feedback in a timely and effective manner.’

Tax
Praised for its ‘extensive tax practice’ by a client, Gatmaytan Yap Patacsil Gutierrez & Protacio (C&G Law) regularly advises several leading Philippine conglomerates and multinational corporations. It is skilled at advising on challenging assessments for various internal revenue taxes, and on other governmental impositions. Under the leadership of Anthony Gutierrez, it often helps clients with claiming tax refunds involving significant sums before various tax authorities, administrative tribunals, the Court of Tax Appeals, and the Supreme Court. The tax group also frequently advises on corporate and commercial transactions, and on large-scale projects, infrastructure, and energy matters. Advice on tax compliance matters is another core area of focus. Roxanne Tadique is also a key member of the Tax & Customs Practice Group and is a licensed accountant.

Testimonials
‘A technically strong team that provides practical advice with due consideration for commercial realities. Responsive and supportive.’

‘Anthony is very competent, responsive and well-versed in the area of tax whilst demonstrating the ability to apply this technical knowledge practically to our questions and situations.’

‘Anthony communicates clearly and well and is experienced and has a good grasp of the issues specific to our industry which is very much appreciated.’

‘Most importantly, Anthony is sincere and takes a real interest in our case and our local team is comfortable reaching out to him and working with him and his team. Pricing is competitive.’

‘C&G Law has top-notch tax lawyers with comparable exceptional academic and professional backgrounds. It also has an international linkage which is lacking in some of the domestic law firms, which we find very useful especially for issues involving cross-border transactions as well as transfer pricing.’

‘All the lawyers of C&G Law that we have dealt with are very proactive in terms of client management. Feedback and status reports are given on a timely basis, without need of a follow-up from us.’

‘This consistent level of client service delivery is maintained by C&G Law regardless of whether the engagement is a major or a minor one.’

TMT
A key contact for e-commerce platforms, online service providers as well as social media and social networks, Gatmaytan Yap Patacsil Gutierrez & Protacio (C&G Law)'s practice is adept in advising on data protection, network infrastructure as well as online content and advertisements matters. Head of the group, Mary Thel Mundin is often engaged in fintech mandates while Deborah Sobrepena-Lacson advises clients on domestic telecoms infrastructure and regulation cases. Vladi Miguel Lazaro and Dwight Tan are also noted for their expertise in data protection and privacy.

Testimonials
‘G&C Law have good experience in the telecommunications industry and take a commercial and pragmatic approach to their legal advice.’

‘I find them very responsive and thorough. ’

‘Deborah Sobrepena-Lacson is commercial and pragmatic.’

‘Very well-versed in the practice area, very thorough and details-oriented, while being practical at the same time. A good mix.’

‘Mary Thel Mundin is very knowledgeable, thorough, and helpful.’

‘They have good experience in the telecommunications industry and take a commercial and pragmatic approach to their legal advice, with a focus on finding solutions rather than highlighting all the problems. I find them very responsive and thorough.’

‘They are all commercial and pragmatic lawyers who provide simple advice on complex issues, empowering my business to make decisions and put in place appropriate risk mitigations.’

Rajah & Tann Singapore – Singapore

Antitrust and Competition – Tier 1
Banking and Finance – Tier 1
Capital Markets: Equity and Debt – Tier 2
Capital Markets: Structured Finance, Derivatives and Securitisation – Tier 1
Construction – Tier 1
Corporate and M&A – Tier 2
Data Protection and Cyber Security – Tier 1
Dispute Resolution – Tier 1
Fintech and Financial Services Regulatory – Tier 1
Insurance – Tier 1
Intellectual Property – Tier 2
International Arbitration – Tier 2
Investment Funds – Tier 1
Labour and Employment – Tier 1
Private Wealth and Family Law – Tier 1
Projects and Energy – Tier 1
Real Estate – Tier 1
Restructuring and Insolvency – Tier 1
Start-up and Venture Capital – Tier 2
Shipping – Tier 1
Tax – Tier 2
TMT – Tier 1
White-Collar Crime – Tier 1
Asia Pacific: Regional International Arbitration: Leading Firms – Tier 3

Leading Lawyers:
Angela Lim – Banking and Finance
Anne Yeo – Investment Funds
Brian Ng - Start-Up and Venture Capital
Chia Kim Huat – Capital Markets: Equity and Debt
Chua Beng Chye- Restructuring and Insolvency
Desmond Wee – Labour and Employment
Elaine Tay – Insurance
Evelyn Wee - Capital Markets: Equity and Debt
Francis Xavier – Dispute Resolution
Hamidul Haq – White-Collar Crime
Kala Anandarajah – Antitrust and Competition
Kendall Tan - Shipping
Lau Kok Keng – Intellectual Property
Lee Eng Beng – Dispute Resolution
Lim Wee Hann – Corporate and M&A
Leong Kah Wah – Shipping
Muralidharan Pillai, SC – Labour and Employment
Ng Kim Beng - Construction
Norman Ho – Real Estate
Patrick Ang – Restructuring and Insolvency
Rajesh Sreenivasan – Data Protection and Cyber Security
Raymond Tong – Capital Markets: Equity and Debt
Regina Liew – Capital Markets: Structured Finance, Derivatives and Securitisation, Fintech and Financial Services Regulatory
Shemane Chan – Construction; Projects and Energy
Steve Tan – Data Protection and Cyber Security, TMT
Tracy Ang – Start-Up and Venture Capital
Thong Chee Kun – White-Collar Crime
Toh Kian Sing, SC – Shipping
Vikna Rajah – Private Wealth and Family Law, Tax
Wee Hann Lim – Corporate and M&A

Next Generation Lawyers:
Benjamin Cheong – TMT
Benjamin Tay – Real Estate
Benjamin Liew – Capital Markets: Structured Finance, Derivatives and Securitisation
Ho Mei Shi – Banking and Finance
Jasmine Chew – Investment Funds
Philip Yeo – Investment Funds
Josephine Chee- White-Collar Crime
Loh Yong Hui – Projects and Energy

Hall of Fame:
Andre Yeap SC – International Arbitration
Arnold Tan – Investment Funds
Lee Eng Beng, SC – Restructuring and Insolvency
Rajesh Sreenivasan - TMT
Sandy Foo – Corporate and M&A
Simon Goh - Insurance

Key Lawyers:
Adzfar Alami – Banking and Finance
Alvin Ee - Insurance
Alvin Tan – Antitrust and Competition
Avinash Pradhan - Construction
Benjamin Liew - Fintech and Financial Services Regulatory
Cheryl Tan – Banking and Finance
Cynthia Wu - Capital Markets: Equity and Debt
Danny Lim – Corporate and M&A, Capital Markets: Equity and Debt
Devathas Satianathan – International Arbitration
Divyesh Menon – International Arbitration
Evelyn Wee – Real Estate
Favian Tan – Corporate and M&A
Gazalle Mok – Real Estate
Jainil Bhandari - Shipping
Jansen Chow – Dispute Resolution
Jared Kok – Labour and Employment
Joshua Seet – Antitrust and Competition
Justin Lee - TMT
Kee Lay Lian - Private Wealth and Family Law
Kelvin Poon,SC - Dispute Resolution
Kevin Tan – Dispute Resolution
Larry Lim - Projects and Energy
Lee Weilin – Banking and Finance
Lee Xin Mei – Banking and Finance, Capital Markets: Structured Finance, Derivatives and Securitisation, Capital Markets: Equity and Debt
Leong Kah Wah - Shipping
Lionel Tan - Data Protection and Cyber Security, TMT
Michelle Lee – White Collar Crime
Murali Pillai – Dispute Resolution
Raelene Pereira - Restructuring and Insolvency
Samuel Lim - Fintech and Financial Services Regulatory
Sim Kwan Kiat – Restructuring and Insolvency
Soh Lip San – Construction, Projects and Energy
Tan Chuan Thye – Dispute Resolution
Tanya Tang – Antitrust and Competition, TMT
Tng Sheng Rong – Intellectual Property
Vanina Sucharitkul – International Arbitration
Yang Tianzhou - Data Protection and Cyber Security
Zixiang Sun – Investment Funds

Antitrust and Competition
Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP command a strong reputation in the Singapore market for handling complex cross-border
merger and investigation mandates. Practice head Kala Anandarajah is one of the most prominent competition and
antitrust lawyers in the region, overseeing a practice with experience spanning multiple jurisdictions including Thailand,
Vietnam and the Philippines. Tanya Tang is a trusted advisor to a number of major private clients and regulatory bodies in
Singapore and the wider region, while Joshua Seet, having rejoined from Fangda Partners in August 2022, significantly
bolsters the team’s expertise relating to merger control and corporate distribution and cooperation practices. Alvin Tan
Yong Joon brings solid experience advising on anti-competitive arrangements across key sectors including automotives,
shipping, pharmaceuticals, consultancy and defence.

Banking and Finance
Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP has a prolific record in bulge-bracket financings, particularly in relation to real estate and
REITs. It is also at the forefront of sustainability-linked and green loans, especially those connected to real estate
acquisitions and developments. The firm has a burgeoning presence in cross-border financings, including those involving
India, Indonesia and China. It has close links to a multitude of regional and international lenders, along with a number of
REITs and other corporates in Asia Pacific. Angela Lim is qualified to practise in England and Singapore, is co-head of the
banking and finance group, and has extensive experience in high-value local and cross-border loans, including
sustainability-linked financings. Also co-head of the team, Ng Sey Ming is Singapore, Malaysia and UK qualified, and is a
leading figure in real estate finance, acquisition finance, and sustainability-linked loans. Lee Weilin is further noted for
sustainability-linked financings, REIT transactions, and corporate loans. Lee Xin Mei and Cheryl Tan cover banking and
debt capital markets transactions.

Capital Markets
Praised for its ‘excellent technical knowledge’, Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP acts for issuers, issue managers, underwriters
and originators on IPOs, listing of companies, REITs and business trusts on the Mainboard and Catalist of the SGX. With
demonstrable experience across the energy and resources, healthcare, lifestyle, real estate and manufacturing sectors,
the firm houses a SPACs multidisciplinary practice and maintains a strong track record in domestic and cross-border
equity, debt, and hybrid transactions. Hoon Chi Tern, who handles local and international IPOs, secondary listings and
fund-raising mandates, jointly leads the team alongside Tan Mui Hui, who advises on primary and secondary listings in
Singapore, as well as overseas exchanges, including, HKEx and NYSE. Evelyn Wee is noted for her expertise in SGX
Mainboard listings, as well as REITs and business trusts listings, while Lee Xin Mei frequently advises on domestic and
multi-jurisdictional debt restructuring transactions. Other key contacts in the group include Raymond Tong, who focuses on
high-profile equity capital markets deals, and regional head of the firm’s corporate and transactional group, Chia Kim Huat.

Capital Markets: Structured Finance, Derivatives and Securitisation
Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP has demonstrable experience advising on listed and unlisted derivatives and structured products, in addition to handling matters concerning novel financial products. Regina Liew, who has considerable experience acting for banks and other financial institutions on a broad range of advisory, transactional and enforcement mandates, jointly leads the team alongside Larry Lim, who focuses on fintech, crowdfunding and digital currencies matters. Benjamin Liew counts retail and private banks, investment advisers, fund managers, fintech entities and derivative dealers among his key roster of clients, while Lee Xin Mei advises on structured debt and securitisation transactions.

Construction
Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP has a large team of construction specialists. The firm has rounded expertise in the full lifecycle of construction specialists, though is best known for its disputes expertise. The firm is noted for its experience in disputes connected to large-scale construction projects around Southeast Asia, including Singapore, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia and Myanmar, along with projects in India, Mongolia and elsewhere in Asia. The firm has worked on a series of front-end construction projects in Singapore and has experienced further growth in engagements stemming from data centre and clean energy projects. Sim Chee Siong leads the construction and projects team and has extensive experience in disputes in Singapore, Southeast Asia and beyond. Soh Lip San and Avinash Pradhan are also experienced figures in construction and engineering disputes, particularly in relation to energy and infrastructure assets. Deputy managing partner Ng Kim Beng also has an outstanding reputation in construction cases and has an estimable track record in Singapore and Southeast Asia disputes. Shemane Chan provides further front-end construction expertise,
particularly in relation to Singapore projects, but also across Asia.

Corporate and M&A
The ‘practical and efficient’ team at Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP has demonstrable experience in cross-border
transactions across the Asia Pacific region, with notable expertise in high-value private equity transactions. Regional head
of the firm’s corporate and transactional group, Chia Kim Huat advises on public and private M&A, multi-jurisdictional joint ventures and private equity investments, while Sandy Foo maintains a standout track record in big-ticket transactions. Lim Wee Hann acts for clients in the biotechnology, healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors on cross-border acquisitions and divestments, and Evelyn Wee is praised as ‘a star in the team’. Terence Quek and Favian Tan spearhead the technology M&A practice, and Tracy-Anne Ang counts multinational companies, startups, SMEs, private equity investors and venture capital funds among her key roster of clients.

Data Protection and Cyber Security
Praised as ‘one of the top firms in Singapore’ for data protection and cyber security, Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP handles
the full gamut of mandates, from regulatory investigations and compliance projects to data breaches and cyber incidents,
including the drafting of response plans and policies. Data governance and cyber security expert Rajesh Sreenivasan
jointly leads the team alongside Steve Tan, who is commended as ‘one of the most eminent lawyers in the practice of
privacy and data protection’, and Benjamin Cheong, who advises on data protection compliance matters. Lionel Tan, who
‘has demonstrated excellent insight and delivered practical and sound advice into data protection matters and breaches’, is
another key contact in the group.

Dispute Resolution
Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP has a deep and impressive dispute resolution team that covers a wide range of cases. It has eight senior counsel within its ranks and has taken key roles in 52 out of 140 SICC judgments as of June 2023. It has earned further accolades for cases involving stolen cryptocurrency, corporate succession, the enforcement of arbitral awards and the largest claim for fraudulent trading. Its wide-ranging industry experience includes headline cases in the real estate, energy and resources, fintech and shipping sectors. It has also demonstrated its expertise in commercial fraud, asset recovery and investigations. Francis Xavier SC is regional head of dispute resolution and has an outstanding record in large cross-border cases. Adrian Wong is head of commercial litigation. Vikram Nair is deputy head of the team and noted for South Asia disputes. Lee Eng Beng SC is rated for banking disputes and insolvency litigation. Murali Pillai SC is another seasoned figure with a fine record in employment and financial services disputes. Kevin Poon SC and Andre Yeap SC provide further senior-level expertise in international arbitration. Tan Chuan Thye SC, Kevin Tan and Jansen Chow also impress. Danny Ong left the firm to co-found Setia Law LLC.

Fintech and Financial Services Regulatory
Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP is well placed to give regulatory advice on novel financial projects, multi-jurisdictional transactions, and crowdfunding mandates. Payment services licence applications, NFT product offerings and the issuance of digital tokens are other notable areas of activity for the team, with venture capital fundraisings a further sweet spot. Capital markets expert Regina Liew co-heads the practice; she handles an array of advisory, transactional and enforcement matters for financial institutions and also has a strong fintech practice. Fellow co-head Larry Lim is highlighted for his expertise in licensing and regulatory clearances, open banking and real estate tokenisation. Benjamin Liew is adept at advising a wide range of financial institutions on issues such as China’s legislative framework for derivatives. Samuel Lim excels in matters relating to the Payment Services Act 2019.

Insurance
A formidable practice, Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP remains a market leader in the insurance and reinsurance arenas. Often at the forefront of high-stakes cases, the practice is adept in handling contentious and non-contentious matters, including advisory work for major insurers and regulators. Alongside specialisms in regulatory, corporate, and employment mandates, the team has expertise in insurance regulation and disputes, in addition to advising on insurance-linked securities and catastrophe bond issues. Simon Goh brings a wealth of experience in contentious and non-contentious work, and jointly leads the team alongside Wang Ying Shuang, who handles regulatory and transactional matters, often focusing on coverage disputes and recoveries. Elaine Tay is well-placed to advise on property and energy insurance issues, as well as other corporate and regulatory work.

Intellectual Property
Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP’s IP team handles a broad range of transactional and brand protection matters, with demonstrable experience in IP litigation, notably handling trade mark and copyright infringement cases. The team excels in the technology, media and food and beverages sectors, in addition to the gaming industry, evidenced by its recent advice to video game publisher NetEase in a dispute involving Riot Games Inc. The practice is spearheaded by 'outstanding' Lau Kok Keng, who has considerable experience in IP litigation, particularly in the sports, media, and gaming arenas. Tng Sheng Rong, who focuses on copyright and trade mark infringement claims, is another key contact in the group.

International Arbitration
Leading firm in Southeast Asia’ Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP has a ‘well-established and highly regarded’ international arbitration practice, with expertise in high-value cross-border litigation and arbitration proceedings. The department is particularly well versed in government-related work, joint venture, international construction and natural resources. The team is jointly led by ‘master strategist’ Kelvin Poon SC and Avinash Pradhan, who enjoys a strong reputation in multiple fields, including corporate finance, M&A, joint venture, and shareholder disputes. For one client, Devathas Satianathan and Andre Yeap SC’s ‘knowledge of international commercial law and arbitration is outstanding’. The team continues to grow, with the arrival of Divyesh Menon from Mayer Brown in August 2022, and Vanina Sucharitkul from Herbert Smith Freehills LLP in March 2023.

Investment Funds
Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP is a leader in the formation of private funds, having focused on the area for over 25 years. It has extensive regulatory expertise, focused on licensing and ongoing regulation for fund managers. The firm’s client base represents a significant market share of licensed and registered fund managers that conduct fund management business in Singapore. It has also played a pivotal role in the development of Singapore’s variable capital company (VCC) regime. Anne Yeo is at the pinnacle of the market, with Philip Yeo and Jasmine Chew also recognised as top practitioners. Arnold Tan is a doyen of the Singapore investment funds market.

Labour and Employment
Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP has a broad mix of contentious and non-contentious employment work, fielding one of the largest teams in the Singapore market. It is a member of Ius Laboris, the global legal network that specialises in labour and employment law. The wide-ranging practice encompasses an impressive flow of engagements, including employment policy reviews, trade union negotiations, employment disputes, investigations and disciplinary processes, and retrenchment and restructuring exercises. The firm is also rated for managing multi-jurisdictional employment issues. Desmond Wee leads the non-contentious employment team with an impressive background in retrenchments and restructurings, investigations, and employee benefits. The highly-rated Jonathan Yuen heads the employment disputes group, handling high-stakes cases and major investigations. Murali Pillai, SC is another leading employment litigator.

Private Wealth
Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP advises a substantial number of ultra-high-net-worth individuals and wealthy families in Asia and worldwide, along with a range of institutional clients. It continues to work intensively in the establishment of familyoffices and in business succession planning. It has a prestigious record in wills and probate, family and matrimonial law, real estate, integrated tax, and trusts and estate wealth planning and structuring, among other areas. Vikna Rajah heads the tax and trust practice, co-heads the private client group, and has an outstanding record in the establishment of family offices. Chandra Mohan Rethnam co-heads the private client team and is an experienced figure in disputes involving private wealth. Kee Lay Lian heads the family law practice.

Projects and Energy
Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP is well versed in handling complex cross-border mandates within the projects and energy sectors. The team has considerable expertise in advising on regulatory work in the transportation and infrastructure sectors, as well as advising on conventional and green power development projects. The group’s workload includes highvalue financings, acquisitions and disposals. Chee Siong Sim heads the practice, and has over two decades of experience in the arena, with noted strength in infrastructure, energy and resources matters. Shemane Chan is a key name for procurement work, and Loh Yong Hui focuses on front-end construction and engineering matters.

Real Estate
The corporate real estate team at Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP handles the gamut of real estate matters. The group advises on all aspects of commercial, residential, and mixed developments, and is equally strong in advising on complex real estate transactions, M&A deals, leases, collective sales, and developments and redevelopments. The practice is adept at representing sellers and purchasers, as well as developers, REITs and other public and private entities. Elsa Chai specialises in conveyancing matters, and co-heads the department with Ching Chou, who has considerable expertise in divestments and acquisitions. Practice deputy head Benjamin Tay is 'a seasoned legal adviser in the real estate domain.' Norman Ho and Gazalle Mok are also key names in the group.

Restructuring and Insolvency
With one of the region’s largest restructuring and insolvency practices, Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP assists on the full spectrum of domestic and cross-border matters, contentious and non-contentious alike, and counts lenders and creditors, debtors, liquidators and judicial managers among its key roster of clients. In addition to commodities, consumer goods and financial services, the practice is noted for its expertise in the marine and offshore, energy and oil and gas sectors. Praised as ‘technically strong, practical and commercial’, Sim Kwan Kiat leads the team alongside Chua Beng Chye, who is ‘constantly exceeding expectations’ when advising on bankruptcy and corporate insolvency mandates, and Sheila Ng. Other key contacts include ‘technically strong’ Patrick Ang and Lee Eng Beng SC, who has considerable experience advising on debt enforcement matters and insolvency litigation.

Shipping
Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP’s well-established shipping practice advises on the gamut of matters across the maritime space. Its workload includes related insolvencies and restructurings; financings; cargo claims; collisions disputes; and marine casualty matters. Clients consist of a range of both local and international financial institutions, P&I clubs, shipowners, charterers, and commodity houses. The team is well-versed in complex cross-border and multi-jurisdictional matters. It is led by Kendall Tan, who has over 20 years’ experience and has advised on a number of high-profile marine oil and gas insolvencies, alongside disputes-focused V Bala, and shipping finance specialist Chua Choon King. Arbitration and shipping disputes expert Leong Kah Wah and maritime specialist Toh Kian Sing SC are also noteworthy team
members.

Startup and Venture Capitals
Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP assists investors and start-ups in their transactions, business operations and expansion endeavours throughout Singapore and the wider region. Sandy Foo is an M&A expert and oversees the practice which, on the start-up side, regularly advises on complex matters related to governance, IP, employment, data privacy, corporate and regulatory affairs. Tracy-Anne Ang , who is praised for her ‘vast experience and sheer brilliance’, and Terence Quek are also leading figures, acting for numerous top investors throughout Southeast Asia, encompassing venture capital and private equity funds, corporate venture capital divisions, and other strategic or financial investors.

Tax
Praised as an ‘excellent tax team, recognised as a leading practice amongst peers and the industry alike’, Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP handles a broad range of mandates, from cross-border tax advisory and tax controversy to goods and services, in addition to stamp duty and property tax. An expert in tax disputes against the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore, Vikna Rajah leads the practice and is ‘at the top of his game, achieving results for clients due to his strategic thinking and attention to detail’.

TMT
The ‘incredibly responsive and commercial’ team at Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP services its stellar client roster on bigticket technology and telecoms transactions, disputes, and regulatory mandates, with demonstrable experience advising on fintech and e-commerce developments. Data protection and cybersecurity is another key area of focus for the group. Praised as ‘one of the top lawyers in the field of TMT’, Steve Tan stands out for his experience in data privacy and jointly leads the team alongside Benjamin Cheong, who advises on a range of technology-related transactions, and data protection and cybersecurity expert Rajesh Sreenivasan. Tanya Tang is ‘extremely knowledgeable’ in regulatory mandates and Lionel Tan handles cases concerning internet defamation and fraud, online security breaches, and confidential information.

White Collar Crime
Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP continues to advise on a series of headline cases throughout the region and beyond. A comprehensive practice, the team has extensive experience assisting both regional and global clients on crossjurisdictional criminal, financial, and regulatory matters, with extensive experience in major frauds, extradition, insider trading, and anti-corruption mandates, as well as cyber issues, breach of trust cases and investigations. The team regularly engages in both defence and prosecution cases for multinational corporations, financial institutions, governmental authorities and high-profile individuals across a vast number of sectors. Co-heads Hamidul Haq and Thong Chee Kun have considerable experience as public prosecutors; Haq focuses on disclosure and other corporate matters, as well as money laundering, while Kun is proficient in criminal law, with specialisms in financial and regulatory offences. Josephine Chee is another key contact in the group and handles securities fraud mandates, including market manipulation, insider trading and compliance issues.

R&T Asia (Thailand) Limited – Thailand

Banking and Finance – Tier 3
Customs and International Trade – Tier 1
Dispute Resolution – Tier 2
Labour and Employment – Tier 2
TMT – Tier 2

Leading Lawyers:
Melisa Uremovic – Customs and International Trade

Rising Stars:
Yingrak Treesaranuwattana – TMT

Hall of Fame:
Surasak Vajasit – Banking and Finance

Key Lawyers:
Chotiwit Ngamsuwan - Banking and Finance
Ittichai Prasongprasit – Labour and Employment
Krida Phoonwathu – Dispute Resolution
Melisa Uremovic - TMT
Pakpoom Suntornvipat – Banking and Finance, Custom and International Trade, Dispute Resolution
Piroon Saengpakdee – Banking and Finance
Saroj Jongsaritwang - Banking and Finance
Supawat Srirungruang – Custom and International Trade, Labour and Employment
Surasak Vajasit – Custom and International Trade
Vanina Sucharitkul – Dispute Resolution

Banking and Finance
Entrusted by multinational banks on a regular basis, R & T Asia (Thailand) Limited is noted for its capability to advise on various cross-border matters involving English and Singaporean law. Managing partner Surasak Vajasit possesses a wealth of experience in corporate and financing transactions, often representing Thailand’s state enterprise banks and other financial institutions. Piroon Saengpakdee‘s expertise is concentrated in project development and finance. Other key names in the practice include Pakpoom Suntornvipat, Saroj Jongsaritwang and Chotiwit Ngamsuwan.

Customs and International Trade
R & T Asia (Thailand) Limited operates across all aspects of customs and trade matters, routinely representing clients in pursuing vailable remedies under bilateral, multilateral, or international agreements and appearing before the courts. Other key areas of work for the practice include advising on customs and subordinate laws, liaising with government departments and negotiating defence and settlement proceedings. Joint practice head Melisa Uremovic's vast expertise encompasses tax, competition, anti-bribery and foreign ownership, to name a few. Alongside Uremovic, Supawat Srirungruang has experience in matters concerning trade competition, dispute resolution and regulatory compliance. Surasak Vajasit and Pakpoom Suntornvipat are also recommended.

Dispute Resolution
Utilising its large regional network, R & T Asia (Thailand) Limited possesses key strengths in handling administrative proceedings, commercial and criminal litigation as well as customs and tax disputes. Surasak Vajasit steers the practice with expertise in customs litigation, and a strong practice across public and private sectors. Pakpoom Suntornvipat advises clients on matters stemming from customs disputes, as well as general commercial and criminal litigation, while Krida Phoonwathu fields a diverse practice that includes business rehabilitation cases, shareholder disputes alongside a broader range of commercial litigation and arbitration issues. Vanina Sucharitkul joined the team in March 2023.

Labour and Employment
Helmed by Saroj Jongsaritwang and Piroon Saengpakdee, R & T Asia (Thailand) Limited’s practice assists an extensive client roster that includes multinational companies and Thai conglomerates on an array of contentious and non-contentious matters. The team demonstrates expertise in disputes involving labour unions, managing termination for misconduct, conducting reviews of HR policies and employment contracts, as well as alleged fraud and anti-corruption investigations. Ittichai Prasongprasit holds vast experience in employment litigation, including disputes involving labour unions, while Supawat Srirungruang’s advises on a range of labour issues.

TMT
Advisng on e-commerce and e-payments-related matters, R & T Asia (Thailand) Limited's offering encompasses a diverse array of TMT issues, including new technologies, such as data security and fintech matters. The practice is jointly led by Supawat Srirungruang, who is geared to handle personal data protection mandates, and Saroj Jongsaritwang, who counts e-commerce, US and China telecoms providers and social media companies among his key roster of clients. Counsel Yingrak Treesaranuwattana, who is noted for his expertise in the e-commerce sphere, is another key contact in the group.

Rajah & Tann LCT Lawyers – Vietnam

Banking and Finance – Tier 3
Corporate and M&A – Tier 2
Data Protection – Tier 2
Dispute Resolution: Arbitration – Tier 2
Dispute Resolution: Litigation – Tier 2
Labour and Employment – Tier 2
Projects and Energy – Tier 4
Real Estate and Construction – Tier 1
Shipping and Aviation – Tier 1
Tax – Tier 1
TMT – Tier 1

Leading Lawyers:
Chau Huy Quang – Shipping and Aviation, Dispute Resolution: Arbitration, Dispute Resolution: Litigation, Tax
Vu Thi Que – Labour and Employment, Real Estate and Construction, TMT

Next Generation Lawyers:
Logan Leung – Corporate and M&A, Dispute Resolution: Arbitration

Rising Stars:
Le Quynh Nhi – TMT
Quach Vu An Khoa – Dispute Resolution: Arbitration, Dispute Resolution: Litigation

Key Lawyers:
Huynh Thi Thu Thuy – Banking and Finance
Logan Leung –Projects and Energy, TMT
Nguyen Dinh Nha- Corporate and M&A
Nguyen Hung Du - Dispute Resolution: Arbitration
Trinh Minh Duc – Banking and Finance, Corporate and M&A, Projects and Energy, Real Estate and Construction
Vu Thi Que – Banking and Finance

Dispute Resolution: Arbitration
With a demonstrable track record in complex international arbitration cases, Rajah & Tann LCT Lawyers has deep experience advising on disputes with Vietnamese tax authorities and also regularly handles cross-border arbitrations for continental energy, infrastructure and engineering clients. Practice head Chau Huy Quang is a public authority specialist with deep-seated expertise in investor-state disputes, while Logan Leung primarily represents clients in construction and engineering conflicts pertaining to payment issues. Senior associate Quach Vu An Khoa is intimately familiar with IP, employment and commercial disagreements. Nguyen Hung Du joined from Grant Thornton Tax & Legal in April 2022, bringing proficiency in contentious tax matters.

Dispute Resolution: Litigation
Rajah & Tann LCT Lawyers represent clients across all levels of the Vietnamese judicial system. The group have witnessed a strong volume of work over the past twelve months, excelling in particular at commercial lawsuits, insurance and tax claims, as well as boasting an enviable track record against state authorities. Clients also benefit from diverse sector expertise which includes real estate, manufacturing, media, and logistics. Team head Chau Huy Quang is the main driver behind the firm’s continued success in this practice area, wielding equally impressive proficiency in arbitration and litigation, and has long-standing experience acting both for and against governments and governmental bodies. Quang is able to call upon Quach Vu An Khoa for support; a senior associate increasingly building a strong reputation for excellence in this space.

Labour and Employment
Rajah & Tann LCT Lawyers’ employment and benefits team handles both contentious and non-contentious matters in the consumer goods, marketing, healthcare, and technology sectors, among others. The team continues to advise a wide range of clients in relation to unlawful terminations and remote working practices. With experience in handling lay-offs and terminations, as well as drafting employment contracts and policies, Vu Thi Que heads the practice. She is a go-to lawyer for Chinese-speaking clients owing to her fluency in Mandarin.

Projects and Energy
Active on solar farm acquisitions, waste-to-energy development, and thermal power plant projects, Rajah & Tann LCT Lawyers has a strong understanding of the transaction and financing piece, as well as regulatory and compliance issues. Vu Thi Que heads the team and largely concentrates on renewable energy projects, particularly regarding M&A. Trinh Minh Duc also has an extensive M&A background and offers experience in the real estate and social infrastructure sphere.

Real Estate and Construction
A stand-out firm due to the strength of its project development work, Rajah & Tann LCT Lawyers receives instructions from key players wishing for advice regarding land use and rights, leasing arrangements, investment structures and due diligence work. The firm also boasts a commendable track record of property transactions including residential areas, high-rise city developments and industrial plots, and is experienced in overseeing the acquisition and sale of stakes and interests in property investment, holding and development companies. Vu Thi Que helms the practice and has a stellar list of Chinese real estate developers as clients who regularly turn to her for counsel when seeking acquisitions in Vietnam. Trinh Minh Duc has been an active part of the firm’s largest projects and has considerable financing and regulatory skill.

TMT
Owing its ability to provide a full-service offering across a wide variety of TMT issues due to both the experience and depth of bench of its practitioners, Rajah & Tann LCT Lawyers houses true regulatory specialists in this space, advising on personal data risk and compliance, telecommunication legislation, licensing and IP arrangements, online business frameworks, and e-commerce concerns. It frequently acts for a wealth of industry titans across the technology, entertainment, and finance and banking sectors. Vu Thi Que spearheads the group and is especially knowledgeable in fintech and software, and has a considerable practice working with emerging start-ups in the region. Thi Que has both a contentious and non-contentious offering and is highly regarded for astute regulatory understanding, working with an enviable list of stellar technology and media clients. Le Quynh Nhi is another practitioner of note who is also recognised for her regulatory and compliance prowess.