ENERGY: Renewable Roadblocks
Law firms interviewed: A&O Shearman; Reed Smith
In recent years, the combination of trade conflicts, the pandemic, and regional tensions have resulted in increased volatility for businesses in the energy, transportation, and commodities sectors. In Southeast Asia, where the transition to green energy is one of the…
MIDDLE EAST: Eastern Promise
China's economic ties with the Middle East have been rapidly expanding, with bilateral trade reaching approximately $500 billion in both 2022 and 2023.
MIDDLE EAST: ‘Law firms offer very little innovation’
Mohammed Jamil is the group general counsel of Saudi Arabian lubricant maker Petromin Corporation. Jamil has over 20 years of in-house experience working as an attorney across multiple jurisdictions. In the Middle East, he has worked in the legal teams of Yusuf Bin Ahmed Kanoo, Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC), Kuwait Finance House, and TRW.
RANKINGS: ALB Asia Top 15 GCs 2024
In the fast-paced world of Asian business, general counsel are emerging as key players in shaping corporate strategy. Gone are the days when these legal experts were confined to the sidelines of compliance and risk management. Today, they're at the forefront of innovation, building trust, and driving their organisations forward.
GC Profile: Alex Au, Director – General Counsel (Corporate & Investment), Link Asset Management Limited
In the fast-paced world of Asian business, general counsels are playing an increasingly important role in shaping corporate strategy. These legal experts are now at the forefront of innovation, building trust, and driving their organizations forward. ALB recognises Alex Au, Director and General Counsel (Corporate & Investment) at Link Asset Management Limited, as one of ALB Asia's top general counsels for 2024.
THAILAND: Going Electric
Thailand has established itself as the most dynamic automotive market in Southeast Asia, particularly during a period of industrial transformation in the region. In response to cost and regulatory factors, manufacturers and automakers from China are realigning their supply chains, resulting in increased competition within the Thai market. And while the surge in Chinese electric vehicles in Thailand is creating new opportunities for legal services, lawyers need to adapt quickly to grab their share of the work.
LEGAL NETWORKS: Network-Powered AI
Proactive legal networks are playing a unique role in the proliferation of the latest in artificial intelligence within the legal industry.
Strengthening Ties
Chinese investments and contracts in sub-Saharan Africa totalled $299 billion from 2005 to 2018, according to the China Investment Global Tracker, and in 2018, China said a further $60 billion would be invested into African nations. We speak to lawyers about what the hot countries and sectors are, and the challenges that Chinese companies face.
Island of Potential
China recently unveiled a plan for the construction of the Hainan Free Trade Port, which aims to turn the island province into an open, world-class free trade port by the middle of the century. And as a series of reform measures involving customs, taxation and systems are rolled out, law firms are gearing up to service clients taking advantage of Hainan’s new status.
Long Road Back
Six months into the pandemic, law firms in Asia are still looking for ways to cope with COVID-19 and its impact. While firms are rolling out various initiatives to ensure smooth working and keep morale up, there is the realisation that things will never be the same.