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.
Bruising battle
In January, Indonesia introduced a set of rules requiring miners to shift from their current ‘contracts of work’ to so-called ‘special mining permits’ before being allowed to resume exports of semi-processed ores and concentrates. This move has led to a very public, increasingly costly dispute with miner Freeport-McMoRan, which appears to have ramifications not just on the industry, but also doing business in Indonesia.
An alternative way
Alternative legal service providers (ALSPs) have increasingly become a solution to companies’ need for more cost-effective legal services. However, the important question to answer is: Can it work in Asia?
Onwards and upwards
Apart from assisting members in connecting with their peers across jurisdictions, law firm networks are also helping them upgrade their skills and preparing them for a fast-evolving international business environment.