Thailand

IP boutique Ananda IP was founded in 2011 and houses 17 IP lawyers, including five qualified patent agents and three litigators. The firm is reputed for its leading role in the ‘Nitto Denko v Hutchison’ case, one of Thailand’s largest patent litigations ever. The firm helped French conglomerate L’Oreal conduct the country’s largest anti-counterfeit raid of 2019, seizing 700 thousand fake items. Managing partner Franck Fougere is the key contact and he helms a team that includes partners Danai Triamchanchuchai, Alexandre Dupont and Nuttakorn Sorakun.

Intellectual property

Work highlights

Advising Tymphany Acoustic Technology Huizhou on strategies to retrieve back its brand from two domestic trademark squatters. The team additionally assisted the client in filing over 20 trademark applications in Thailand to extend protection on its rights.

Acted for Drury Precision Engineering on its investigation of infringing motorbike parts bearing the client’s trademark both offline and online. The team successfully helped to remove infringing contents from Facebook and Lazada.

Represented the Landmark Group in filing administrative and judicial reviews for its trademark ‘Splash’ application in Thailand.

Working closely with Korean associate firms to file over 100 trademark applications in Thailand, including those for YG Entertainment, SM Entertainment, Blackpink and Kakao.

Key clients

Amgen, Dr Reddy’s Laboratories, Honda, Kubota, Mega Life Sciences, Sandoz, Suzuki

Client feedback

“We look for the leaders in this field in each jurisdiction. Counsel who are strategic and quick to provide solutions to the problems our clients face in each jurisdiction. This firm, with its work ethic and jurisprudence, is outstanding. Their reputation in the industry is strong. It provides us with strong legal advice, prompt and cost-effective measures. These are the key ingredients we look for. ” – Intellectual property

“Appreciate its responsiveness, effectiveness and reasonable charges.” – Intellectual property

Franck Fougere

“He is skilful and strategic in advice and litigation.”

“Franck is accessible, and is effective at his job with good communication skills.”

Full service mid-sized commercial law firm Apisith & Alliance is best known for its strength in international trade, and trade and customs work. The firm boasts one of the largest international trade practices in the Southeast Asian region, with 10 fee earners alone in this department. Managing partner Apisith John Sutham is respected for his diverse expertise in the areas of corporate and M&A, capital markets, trade and customs, investment funds, real estate and infrastructure. Senior consultant Bhupendra Solanki joined in July 2019 from Aditya Birla Group and capital markets specialist Wiyadathawin Luenchavee was promoted to the partnership in November 2019.

Although all submitted work matters and clients are confidential, the firm was busy last year in the areas of dispute resolution, IP, M&A, real estate and capital markets.

Axis Legal offers a full range of corporate and commercial law services, with particular expertise in the manufacturing and services sectors. Last year, a significant part of the firm’s work was connected to M&A and private equity investments in the technology and telecommunications, and consumer goods and services industries. Co-founder Peter Burke has led many of the firm’s key deals in the past 12 months, with one peer referring to him as “a well-regarded transactional lawyer ”. The other key contact is senior consultant Iain Melville.

Corporate and M&A  

Work highlights

Advising Japanese conglomerate as the purchaser in a regional acquisition spanning Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Myanmar and Thailand. The Thai aspects of the deal involved the acquisition of two local Thai entities that carried out the sellers’ business in the domestic market.

Represented a US pharmaceutical company in its purchase of a portfolio of over-the-counter and prescription pharmaceutical products from another Japanese drug company.

Acting for a Hong Kong-registered food company on acquiring a material equity stake in a regional restaurant chain that operates across Southeast Asia. The team helped set up and structure the acquisition vehicle, among preparing various documentation.

Client feedback

“The firm is very commercial, realistic and rational when presenting the client with options, the costs of those options and likelihood of success and outcome. It’s been very helpful in making an informed decision.” – Labour and employment

“Peter and his team have excellent credentials when it comes to Thailand M&A, dispute resolution, employment law and corporate advisory matters. They are quick to respond and always very, very thorough in the advice they provide, often going the extra mile.” – Corporate and M&A

Peter Burke

“He is commercial and a strong communicator. He is fair and presents options to us in a clear manner in order to make an informed decision.”

“His Thailand legal expertise and knowledge is first-rate. Peter always incorporates practical solutions and advice in engagement matters.”

Chandler MHM is one of Thailand’s largest and most prestigious full service firms. It excels particularly in the banking and finance, energy, and corporate and M&A areas. It is widely considered by industry insiders to be the go-to market leader for complex, big-ticket energy projects across the financing and development spectrum. Its growing capital markets team has an outstanding track record in the REITs space, while its dispute resolution department was bolstered by four recent senior hires, including counsels from DLA Piper and Tilleke & Gibbins. Notable senior partner movements include Albert Chandler retiring from the partnership, Satoshi Kawai returning to MHM Tokyo, and Ratana Poonsombudlert and Niwes Phancharoenworakul becoming senior advisers. The co-managing partners of the firm are now Jessada Sawatdipong and recent arrival from Tokyo, labour specialist Chisako Takaya.

Banking and finance

Work highlights

Advising Krung Thai Bank and Export-Import Bank of Thailand on the financing of a solar power project in Myanmar.

Representing Mercuria Investment on its mezzanine financing for condominium projects in Thailand. This is the only mezzanine fund in the country where the target consists of real estate projects.

Key clients

Bangkok Bank, BCPG Indochina, Export-Import Bank of China, Siam Commercial Bank

Capital markets

Work highlights

Advised the Siam Chemicals on the lease of its assets to the AIM Industrial Growth Freehold and Leasehold REIT. This is the first REIT to invest in a tank farm asset.

Represented CIMBT as both the debt lender and the equity underwriter to raise funds for a cross-border Dusit Thani Freehold and Leasehold REIT to invest in a new hotel project in the Maldives.

Key clients

CPN REIT Management, Krung Thai Bank, Muangthai Capital, Thanachart Bank

Construction

Work highlights

Advising a domestic bank on the financing of a solar plant in Minbu, Myanmar.

Acted for renewable company BCPG Indochina on the acquisition financing of the Nam San 3A and Nam San 3B hydropower projects in Laos.

Representing a Chinese investor on its investment in a waste-to-energy facility in northern Thailand.

Key clients

Export-Import Bank of Thailand

Corporate and M&A  

Work highlights

Advised Food Factors, a subsidiary of the Boonrawd Group, in a bidding process involving the purchase of shares of a food chain company, Santa Fe Steak. The target operates more than 100 franchise outlets located predominantly in Thailand.

Represented Japanese system integration company NTT Data on its $23 million acquisition of 100% equity in Locus Telecommunication, a Thai technology solutions company.

Acted for a domestic OEM automotive parts manufacturer in a joint venture with Sojitz to set up a new company in Thailand.

Key clients

AAPICO Hitech, Kanden Realty & Development, Thanachart Bank

Dispute resolution

Work highlights

Defending a manufacturer listed on the Thai Stock Exchange against multi-million dollar claims by former major shareholders and founders of the company.

Acting for a global mining firm in relation to an arbitration claim against Thailand’s government.

Representing a Japanese motor manufacturer in relation to a civil claim arising from the termination of dealership agreements.

Restructuring and insolvency

Work highlights

Advised Nissan Motor Thailand on an internal corporate restructuring involving a share swap of Nissan Motor’s shares in Nissan Motor Thailand, Nissan Powertrain Thailand, and SNN Tools and Dies Company in exchange for new shares in its wholly-owned subsidiary, Nissan Motor Asia Pacific.

Acting for a listed domestic manufacturer as a debtor under insolvency proceedings on claims for the repayment of debts.

Client feedback

“The firm’s lawyers were kind and polite to me, always providing the advice I required.” – Banking and finance

“The firm has a very experienced banking and project finance team. I have known lawyers at the firm for many years. They have a stable and reliable team. I know them and they know me. We have a good working relationship. I feel they understand my business and are nice to work with. I have a lot of trust in them.” – Banking and finance

“Professionalism and efficiency combined with an impressive knowledge of Thai law.” – Dispute resolution

“It is quite professional and has attention to details. Its speed of response is good.” – Infrastructure

“Provides responsive, practical and commercial advice.” – Private equity

David Beckstead

“He is very professional and always responds quickly.”

Supattra Sathapornnanon

“She fully supported us with the legal information necessary for my business.”

“We have a good working relationship. I have found her to be very responsive and caring. I can rely on her advice as she has a lot of expertise.”

Jessada Sawatdipong

“He is very fast to provide legal advice as required.”

Nathee Silacharoen

“A true professional, he is hardworking and efficient in the delivery of the work product and in meeting targets in tight timeframes.  He also demonstrated very good management of resources, such as in the allocation of work to his team.  He has an impressive knowledge of Thai law and industry sector expertise, especially with regards to complicated legal issues.”

Nuanporn Wechsuwanarux

“Responsive, commercial and gives practical advice.”

DFDL maintains a strong presence in the Thai market with an extended regional presence that offers its international clients an integrated service in other nearby jurisdictions. It has demonstrated a competitive edge in the banking and financial services, energy, real estate, and technology and telecommunications sectors. With the increase of Chinese investment into the country, the firm has enjoyed an uptick of this work, particularly on some flagship projects in the logistics sector in the eastern economic corridor. The firm has a dedicated energy, mining and infrastructure practice and received numerous new and clean energy project mandates last year. Managing director Audray Souche is known for her expertise in energy, mining and infrastructure projects as well as diverse experience in corporate and M&A, commercial, regulatory and banking and finance practice areas. The firm enjoys a stellar reputation in the region as a go-to tax firm with particular strengths in the Bangkok office in wealth management and US tax. Tax specialists Jonathan Blaine and Jack Sheehan are notable.

Banking and finance

Work highlights

Advised Siam Commercial Bank on its $23.4 million loan for a project in Laos operated by Hongsa Power Company.

Assisted Bangkok Bank on its review of a credit facility given to a Laos hydropower project.

Key clients

ANZ, Asian Development Bank, Bank of China Hong Kong, Credit Suisse, Kasikorn Bank, International and Commercial Bank of China, International Finance Corporation, JP Morgan Chase, Siam Commercial Bank

Construction

Work highlights

Advising Thai developer Anamaya Samui with respect to the proposed $50 million expansion of its luxury Anamaya project in Koh Samui to include both a residential portion and hotel portion.

Acting for Seagate in relation to various site construction and renovation projects. The firm’s role includes the drafting and localisation of construction services master agreements and advising on construction law matters.

Corporate and M&A

Work highlights

Acted for Indian nonwovens group Supreme Treon on local law aspects in relation to its acquisition of the automotive interior trims and NVH business of Futuris Automotive.

Engaged by ride-hailing unicorn Grab in relation to its $1.5 billion investment for SoftBank’s technology fund, Softbank Vision Fund (SVF). The team provided regulatory advice to the client and helped it re-conduct due diligence on its Vietnamese and Thai entities in preparation for a new round of share acquisitions by SVF.

Key clients

B Grimm Power, Decathlon, Wheig Asia

Tax 

Work highlights

Assisted the Thai operational segments of Aditya Birla Chemicals Thailand on its transition from a Thai International Headquarters scheme to a new regime that is a newly-established incentivised programme under the auspices of the Thai Board of Investment. This transition was one of the first in Thailand and involved a significant reworking of current operational, employment, and compliance and reporting modifications.

Advising Hong Kong-based Asian investment fund and asset manager, Ion Pacific, on local tax advice, investment structuring, upstream US tax planning and compliance support.

As a full service law firm, JTJB International Lawyers has established strength in contentious and non-contentious shipping matters. Recently, the team has seen increased activity in its dispute resolution, labour and employment, and tax practices. Last year the firm entered into a strategic partnership with China-based Tahota Law Firm to expand its reach to Chinese clients. The firm’s managing director Naiyachon Tathong is recognised for his expertise in construction, dispute resolution, labour and employment and restructuring and insolvency. Partner Bunnasomboon Chaiparinya features in the firm’s corporate and M&A deals.

Corporate and M&A  

Work highlights

Advised Optima Werkz on its joint venture agreement and negotiations with partner Wealth Firm Holdings.

Conducted due diligence report on SCI Electric for a Chinese client.

Acted for OBOOK, a subsidiary of Nasdaq-listed blockchain player OwlTing, on its establishment of a new entity in Thailand that would provide a blockchain service platform for hotel and hospitality customers. The team provided legal advice and helped the client to apply for its foreign business certificate and the board of investment (BOI) Investment Promotion certificate.

Key clients

Brankas, Green Energy Investment Holding

Dispute resolution

Work highlights

Representing Raimon Land and Klapsons Hotel in filing a criminal and labour claim against the ex-financial controller of both companies. The defendant is accused of forging documents and stealing company property.

Acting for Olam International against Bureau Veritas Thailand in the Intellectual Property and International Trade Court. The client is alleging that Bureau Veritas was negligent and had failed to professionally inspect and issue the certificate of weight, quality and packing of specific rice cargo.

Key clients

Asia Green Energy, Ceva Logistics, Floyd, MK SARL

Labour and employment

Work highlights

Acting for Concentrix Services on various labour and employment matters, including reviewing and commenting on its work from home policy and termination of employment due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

Key clients

Marriott Executive Apartments Sukhumvit Park Hotel

Client feedback

“The firm provides practical advice and is skilled in negotiations with both government agencies and litigious matters. It is reliable, responsive and professional, with reasonable rates.” – Corporate and M&A

“The team was very honest in their dealings.” – Private client

“Responsive and efficient in dealing back and forth between our company and BOI.” – Regulatory

Bunnasomboon Chaiparinya

“He listens and advises, and doesn’t try to make the problem more complicated as other companies do.”

Kanpimon Naksinn

“He is very responsive and efficient. He makes good efforts in improving upon feedback as well.”

Naiyachon Tathong

“He is approachable, attentive and very reliable. He is calm, not easily fazed, logical and not prone to jumping to conclusions. He gives practical and sound advice.”

Kudun and Partners is an energetic and young full service firm that has grown exponentially in the past few years, pulling talent from other major competitors and being hailed as a firm to keep an eye on by peers. One firm said: “They’ve got a good book of clients and are building a good reputation. As some older, established firms lose market footing, Kudun is picking it up.” Last year the firm added its new international practice head from Weerawong C&P, partner Troy Schooneman. It also bolstered its tax, and restructuring and insolvency offering with the lateral hires of veteran partners Chinawat Assavapokee and Saravut Krailadsiri from Hunton Andrews Kurth. The firm has established a dedicated China practice staffed with native Chinese speakers. Partner and key contact Kudun Sukhumananda has vast expertise in capital markets, corporate and M&A, banking and finance, real estate, infrastructure funds and energy.

Banking and finance

Work highlights

Advised Phelps Dodge International Thailand on the $239 million acquisition financing that it received from United Overseas Bank and Kasikornbank for the indirect acquisition of Dong Viet Non-Ferrous Metal and Plastic JSC and Thinh Phat Cables JSC in Vietnam.

Key clients

Finnomena, Urban Mobility Tech

Capital markets

Work highlights

Acted for Thai Solar Energy in a complex and precedent-setting matter pertaining to its issuance of transferable subscription rights (TSRs). Very few companies have issued TSRs due to the complexities and tight time frames.

Advised JKN Global Media on its five-year convertible debenture debt offering by way of a private placement to North Haven Thai Private Equity Fund.

Key clients

MITSIB Leasing, Siam Rajathanee, Thai Bonnet Trading Zone

Corporate and M&A

Work highlights

Acted for Stark Corporation and its wholly-owned subsidiaries PDITL and PD Cables as the buyers of 100% of the charter capital of Thinh Phat Cables JSC and Dong Viet Non-Ferrous Metal and Plastic JSC for $220 million.

Represented Thai plastic packaging manufacturer Eka Global on its cross-border acquisition of China-based packaging companies from the existing shareholder, a holding company based in the US.

Key clients

BG Container Glass, IT City, Thai Foods Group

Dispute resolution

Work highlights

Representing NCP Consortium in a claim dispute against the Port Authority of Thailand’s administrative order in relation to its procurement of a Laem Chabang port construction contractor.

Defending two domestic technology and telecommunications companies in a massive potential class-action case that would concern more than 41 million users. The clients are challenging a request by the plaintiffs to apply class action procedure to this matter.

Key clients

Chanwanich Security Printing Company, Shinhan Bank, Volvo Group

Tax

Work highlights

Assisting fuel and lubricant company Sea Oil on its VAT assessment and mitigation of VAT penalty and providing tax planning on VAT refund for the company and its subsidiaries.

Advising a Thai renewable energy company on a complex tax planning proposal for its investment in solar power plants in Lao PDR.

Acting for a domestic marine transportation and logistics company on its annual tax planning for operations and investments of the company and its subsidiaries to mitigate tax implications after being granted tax privileges under the board of investment (BOI) promotion.

Key clients

Pilatus Marine, PM Enterprises Holding, Prime Marine, TOA Group Holding

LS Horizon starred in several high-profile matters this past year. It moves up into the ‘Outstanding’ tier in dispute resolution and continues to prove its worth in the energy sector. Partner Wanchai Yiamsamatha is the key partner for disputes work while partner Sunpasiri Sunpa-a-sa is frequently found spearheading the transactional matters.

Dispute resolution

Work highlights

Defending the Stock Exchange of Thailand in a high-profile Central Administrative Court case in relation to a complaint filed by Energy Earth after it was ordered to delist from the bourse for its failure to submit financial statements by the given deadline.

Representing Central Pattana and CPN Village against the Airports of Thailand over a dispute regarding the blocked entry of the client’s upscale outlet mall near the airport.

Restructuring and insolvency  

Work highlights

Acting for Lucky Resources & Logistics in its rehabilitation by drafting the rehabilitation plan that was subsequently approved by the creditors and the Central Bankruptcy Court.

Natipatana Law Office is notable for its dispute resolution practice. Both heads of the office Nuttawut Chinawong and director Nattaphol Chinawong are renowned for their expertise in litigation and arbitration, particularly in government-related matters. The firm moves up a notch in the disputes ranking and debuts in the labour table for its consistent representation in employment cases for more than a decade.

Dispute resolution

Work highlights

Successfully defended a Pakistani national who was threatened with extradition to India by Thailand’s government. The firm was hired by the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan in Thailand.

Engaged by the former Minister of Education and Deputy Prime Minister of Thailand to file a case against the Ministry of Foreign Affairs because it cancelled his passports after the Coup D’Etat in 2014. The client sought the removal of the cancellation order and last year, won a final judgement by the Supreme Administrative Court that upheld the Central Administrative Court’s decision to remove the cancellation order.

Labour and employment

Work highlights

Advising Sharp Thailand on various corporate and employment matters.

Established in 2016, Pisut & Partners is a full service law firm with a dispute resolution focus. The mid-sized firm is now led by three partners, including two who recently joined to fortify the firm’s corporate department. Corporate and commercial expert Wayu Suthisarnsuntorn was hired from PriceSanond in 2019, and of counsel Douglas Mancill joined from DLA Piper in April 2020. Partners and hospitality specialist David Lawrence left to join Dilinh Legal as counsel. In addition to litigation and arbitration, the firm offers services for corporate M&A, hotels and hospitality, insolvency and restructuring, trade competition, employment, immigration, insurance, transportation, and other general commercial legal services. Founder and managing partner Pisut Rakwong is a key contact.

Dispute resolution  

Work highlights

Assisting the River Condominium juristic person to file a civil complaint against the developer. The client is demanding the transfer or handover of the common properties, construction drawings together with the rescission of the transactions entered into between the developer and third parties. The dispute arose from the non-delivery of certain common facilities advertised by the developer.

Successfully defended and settled a labour complaint brought on by local employees of US-based Veritas Technologies. The complaint involved the issues of the car allowance being included as part of wages and mileage reimbursement.

Key clients

AP Honda, AEC Securities, Hitachi Solutions, Sanofi Pasteur, SiamEast Solution, Telenor Digital Asia, WebTVAsia

Client feedback

“Good communications with timely updates.” – Dispute resolution

Pisut Rakwong

“He was accessible, communicated and gave feedback.”

Rajah & Tann Thailand holds steady as a well-regarded choice across core corporate law firm areas, and its disputes practice, and technology and telecommunications prowess deserve special mention. The firm has a growing core business advising fintech, e-commerce and e-payment players, and it has provided regulatory counsel to Google and Facebook for many years in Thailand. The firm is expanding its Bangkok office, which has more than 55 lawyers at present, and it is actively recruiting specialists for infrastructure matters. The firm’s managing partner Surasak Vajasit is known for his practice in dispute resolution, projects and banking and finance. He is a frequent arbitrator in ICC arbitration proceedings. Corporate, competition and trade specialist Melissa Uremovic is another respected name and key contact.

Dispute resolution 

Work highlights

Representing Philip Morris Thailand in a dispute that involves questions both of Thai customs law and of Thailand’s implementation of the WTO customs valuation agreement.

Acting for Honda Automobile Thailand in a dispute over the return of a trademark logo from a dealer after the non-renewal of the dealer agreement.

Key clients

Gheco-One, Glow SPP 11

Labour and employment 

Work highlights

Successfully represented Sermsuk in labour court proceedings and ultimately obtained a Thai Supreme Court judgement in favour of the client over unfair dismissal claims brought by ex-employees.

Founded in 1995, Satyapon and Partners is a respected IP law firm, offering services across the full spectrum of IP matters. Eponymous founder and managing partner Satyapon Sachdecha is a prominent name in the IP space. He is flanked by head of trademark and litigation Kritsana Mingtongkhum, and head of patent and design, Kritchawat Chainapasak. The three lead a team of patent attorneys and litigators that bring in-house technical expertise. In addition to Thailand, the firm also handles prosecution and manages portfolios for various multinational and local clients in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam.

Intellectual property

Work highlights

Advising Panasonic in a high-profile patent litigation case against Thai manufacturer, distributor and importer Zehbert over its sale of electrical devices in the Thai market that infringed on the client’s patent rights.

Representing Chile in a long-standing, highly-publicised geographical indication (GI) case against Peru over who owns the rights to the alcoholic beverage ‘Pisco’. The firm helped Chile file the GI ‘Pisco Chile’.

Acting for VietJet Air in its attempt to register its trademark, which is prohibited by the Thai Trademark Act because its mark contains a geographical name.

Key clients

Aston Martin, NFL Properties, Pernod Ricard, Twitter, Uber, World Wildlife Fund, Yamaha Motors

Nishimura & Asahi merged with domestic law firm Chavalit Law Group in December 2019 as part of its global expansion and the transition remains in progress. The new firm, SCL Nishimura, will marry the Japanese powerhouse’s client base with Chavalit Law’s highly-regarded local expertise. The Thai entity was best known for its dispute resolution and corporate practices, but it does also have quality offerings in banking, capital markets, IP, projects, real estate and tax. Respected managing partner Chavalit Uttasart heads up the hybrid firm alongside seven other partners. 

Corporate and M&A

Work highlights

Represented American industrials manufacturer CoorsTek on setting up a new factory in Thailand, an investment valued at $500 million.

Acted for PP Prime, a Thai manufacturer and distributor of aquatic animal feed, on its $74 million acquisition of several geothermal power plants in Japan.

Advised Thai independent power producer, Charoen Energy and Water Asia on its investment in new biomass power projects in Japan.

Key clients

Bangchak Corporation, BCPG, Infra Daya Energia, Showa Denko

Dispute resolution  

Work highlights

Successfully represented Minor International in connection with an insurance dispute against an insurance provider, where the Supreme Court reversed an earlier ruling on damage claims from the 2010 Thai political protests.

Acted for Brand’s Suntory International in connection with claims relating to an unlawful tax assessment over withholding tax.

Key clients

BMT Pacific, Intel Corporation, Siam Makro, TMB Bank

Energy   

Work highlights

Advising Indonesian oil and gas company MedcoEnergi in connection with obtaining $300 million oil entitlement financing by sponsor Bangkok Bank, which will be provided to the client’s SPV.

Represented Thai solar power plant and listed company BCPG on its acquisition of SunEdison’s solar projects in Japan, as well as the platform for the solar businesses.

Key clients

Bangchak Corporation, Chow Energy, Sermsang Power Corporation

The capital markets practice is the true standout at The Capital Law Office, which opened its doors in 2013 and houses some of the country’s top specialists. The firm’s corporate and M&A offering has steadily expanded over the years and enjoyed a banner year in 2019 that included working on the country’s largest bank merger to date. The firm represents issuers and underwriters on domestic and cross-border issuance of equity, equity-linked products, debt instruments and derivatives. Its partners are routinely sought out for complex, precedent-setting transactions, such as its recent mandate as issuer’s counsel in Thailand’s largest equity IPO by market capitalisation to date. Partners Chatri Trakulmanenate, Paradorn Leosakul and Patraporn Milindasuta are key contacts.

Capital markets

Work highlights

Advised Central Retail Corporation on its $2.6 billion IPO on the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET), and on the tender offer and share swap to delist Robinson. This is the country’s largest equity IPO by market capitalisation to date.

Acted for Dohome on its $136 million listing on the SET and the group’s corporate restructuring.

Representing Samart Corporation on the SET share listing and the spin-off of Cambodia Air Traffic Services in a related cross-border deal. Additionally, the team advised the client on an international offering outside the US in reliance on Rule 144A/Regulation S. This will be the first IPO on the SET for a Cambodian company.

Advised Boutique Corporation on its IPO and listing of shares on Thailand’s Market for Alternative Investment and on the company’s restructuring.

Key clients

Ananda Development, BTS Group Holdings, Charoen Pokphand Foods, Prima Marine, Thai Nippon Rubber Industry, Thanachart Securities 

Corporate and M&A  

Work highlights

Advised Thanachart Capital and Thanachart Bank (TBank) on a benchmark business merger between TBank and TMB Bank to become the sixth-largest bank in Thailand. This multi-faceted acquisition was the Thai banking industry’s largest merger to date, valued at $5.5 billion.

Represented VGI Media on its $144 million acquisition of an 18.6% share interest in Plan B, Thailand’s leading Out-of-Home, digital services and parcel express services.

Acting for Terraform Global, a Canadian-based energy company, on its sale of three operating companies owning nine solar farms across Thailand.

Key clients

B Grimm & Co, Bangkok Airways, CIMB Securities, Continental Steel, Government Savings Bank, Indorama Ventures, King Power Group of Companies, Phatra Assets Management

Tilleke & Gibbins is an all-round, dominant force in the Thai legal market and its pre-eminence continues to spider out across Southeast Asia, further cementing its position as a top regional firm. The firm is a leader in the aviation, IP, insurance, tax, and technology and telecommunications spaces for this part of the world. Co-managing partners Tiziana Sucharitkul and Darani Vachanavuttivong are known for their expertise in dispute resolution and intellectual property, respectively. Recently, there were several notable moves, including the retirement of partners Jeffrey Blatt, Piyanuj Ratprasatoporn and Sriwan Puapondh. Boosting the firm’s energy and infrastructure offering was the joining of partner Joseph Tomkiewicz from Chevron and a trio of partners and two counsels from Phenomena, including Supasit Boonsanong. Counsel and corporate specialist Ross Taylor lateralled in from Myanmar’s SCM Legal, and the firm’s tax practice welcomed consultant Varapa Aurat from Price Sanond.

Aviation and shipping

Work highlights

Representing a global logistics company and its Thai subsidiary, along with their insurer, in three separate matters related to issues involved with a wind farm project for which the client provides logistics services.

Acting for an aviation operating and leasing company based in Ireland in its multi-million dollar damages claim as a result of breached aircraft lease agreements on three leased Boeing aircraft. 

Represented Sprite Aviation in connection with the lease of one Thai-registered aircraft to Thai-owned Eastarjet, a low-cost airline headquartered in South Korea.

Key clients

Pacific Air Holdings, Prima Multi Mineral

Banking and finance

Work highlights

Advised Fabrinet, a leading industrial equipment supplier, in various loan projects totalling $155 million with Bank of America and two Thai banks.

Representing a Thai real estate company in the procurement of $12.5 million loan from a British multinational investment bank in order to refinance a major real estate project.

Acted for the domestic entity of a global industrial machine manufacturer in procuring $6.4 million in financing from an Australian bank for its equipment sale and leasing business.

Key clients

BlackRock, CIBC, Clearstream Banking, Morgan Stanley, Weiss Asset Management

Capital markets

Work highlights

Advising a Cambodian company on the first ever secondary listing application submitted to the Securities and Exchange Commission of Cambodia and the Stock Exchange of Thailand.

Construction 

Work highlights

Acting for a Chinese construction company on various elements of the Bangkok–Nong Khai high-speed railway project, the first high-speed rail line in Thailand, and an essential part of the great Kunming-Singapore railway project.

Representing one of the leading consortium members in bidding for the Laem Chabang Port Phase 3 Development Project, a mega infrastructure development plan under the Eastern Economic Corridor scheme.

Corporate and M&A

Work highlights

Advising as regional counsel for New York-headquartered professional services giant Marsh & McLennan Group on the Thai and Myanmar elements of their $5.6 billion global acquisition of Jardine Lloyd Thompson group.

Acted for a domestic healthcare services company on a joint venture agreement to operate an $82 million specialised medical centre in Bangkok with two other parties.

Represented itelligence, the German subsidiary of NTT Data, on its acquisition of a majority of the shares in ISS Consulting Solution, an SAP service provider in Thailand.

Key clients

Aon Hewitt, Horizon Global, Liqui-Box Corporation, Mitsubishi

Dispute resolution

Work highlights

Representing a multinational lens manufacturer in a high-value global fraud case involving a former employee in the company’s Thai operations.

Acting for a European aerospace and defence company in a high-stakes, complex litigation against the Royal Thai Navy in relation to the breach of a defence equipment contract worth over $20 million.

Key clients

High Hope Zhongding Corporation, Lonsin Capital

Infrastructure 

Work highlights

Assisting an electronic toll company in relation to the operation and maintenance of an electronic toll collection system for the Bang Pa-In – Nakhon Ratchasima Intercity Motorway Project.

Insurance 

Work highlights

Appointed by both the Thai Life Assurance Association and Thai General Insurance Association to advise the entire insurance market on drafting and implementing industry guidelines for compliance with the new Personal Data Protection Act, which was enacted in May 2019.

Key clients

AIA, AIG, MSIG, Prudential, Sompo, Tokio Marine Life

Intellectual property

Work highlights

Acted for a Japanese manufacturer of imaging and optical products to devise a unique strategy in enforcing its IP rights against multiple online infringers.

Successfully represented food maker and distributor Ajinomoto Thailand in a civil suit against a Thai company for use of a similar packaging design.

Advised a leading Italian manufacturer of automotive brake systems in combating the sale and distribution of counterfeit brake products in Thailand, including coordinating a successful raid which found over $1.6 million in infringing products.

Key clients

AmorePacific, Amazon, Boe Technology Group, GAP, Guccio Gucci, Huawei Technologies, Lazada, Saraburi Sugar, ThaiBev, Walmart

Labour and employment 

Work highlights

Advising Walt Disney Thailand on a complex domestic employment matter related to the termination of a mid-level employee for poor performance.

Defended a global provider of financial services technology against a terminated Thai employee, who was responsible for selling the client’s product in the country. The plaintiff was suing for unfair termination.

Restructuring and insolvency

Work highlights

Assisted General Motors on two matters involving the reduction of two subsidiaries’ registered capital by way of eliminating both ordinary and preferential shares in preparation for winding down operations in the country.

Tax

Work highlights

Advising one of the largest petroleum companies in Asia on tax planning matters related to an EPC contract for an olefins reconfiguration project.

Representing a multinational nutritional supplement company in a complex customs dispute. The matter involves the application of internationally accepted rules of origin in calculating whether products imported for distribution in Thailand qualify for tax exemptions under ASEAN member trade agreements.

Assisting a Hong Kong-based real estate investment and property management company with tax, real estate, and corporate matters related to major property investments in Bangkok and Phuket.

Acting for a multinational computer technology behemoth on a complex Thai customs dispute regarding rules of origin application under the China-Thailand free trade agreement (FTA). It is based upon a complicated tri-party shipping distribution channel for products originating in China that were shipped into Thailand through Malaysia and invoiced from the client’s entity in Singapore.

Key clients

AnexTour, Kellog’s, Weiss Asset Management

Technology and telecommunications 

Work highlights

Engaged by the global entities of numerous household-name companies to provide data mapping, gap analyses, training, and prepare data-related documentation in relation to Thailand’s new Personal Data Protection Act.

Acting for Agoda to provide advice on data privacy and protection as it relates to their local business operations in Thailand through their website.

Engaged by the operator of a global blockchain payment network to provide regulatory advice on the possibility of launching a payment network supported by a family of stablecoins in Thailand.

Advised on a master service agreement for the world’s leading on-demand cloud computing company that would allow an outsourced local company to provide on-site maintenance services for a data centre owned and operated by one of the client’s customers.

Key clients

Facebook, Grab

Client feedback

“The firm was active in delivering precise advice. It provided dedicated navigation for Japanese companies to understand complicated legal issues in the country and to understand the culture.” – Corporate and M&A

“Quick and incisive responses.” – Insurance

“Very responsive to practical and exhaustive advice. Excellent docketing.  ” – Intellectual property

“The firm has knowledge of IP matters and adds a commercial perspective to the advice given. IT responds speedily and is trustworthy and professional.” – Intellectual property

“Satisfactory arrangements with authorities and intended outcomes from the meeting.” – Intellectual property

“The team was efficient, reliable, and they understood our requirements well with little or no supervision and explanation.” – Privacy and data protection

Athistha Chitranukroh

“Approachable and knowledgeable. Good industry knowledge.”

“She is very professional and has a sound understanding of Thai laws. She is extremely reliable and responsive and has delivered on all matters on which I have instructed her.”

Somboon Earterasarun

“Responsive and practical.”

Wiramrudee Mokkhavesa

“Handles the task in a professional manner.”

Charunun Sathitsuksomboon

“He provides proactive proposals for workable, win-win solutions, and is transparent in their workstream, status and fees.”

Suebsiri Taweepon

“He is very knowledgeable in IP and makes innovative solutions possible. He brings a strong commercial sense into his understanding of problems and solutions. He is a sharp communicator,  clear and concise with strong logic. He is highly respectful and professional in his knowledge and manner. He is accessible and is quick to respond to our requests. I've recommended Tilleke & Gibbins to my network of friends because of my good experience working with him and the quality of his services.”

One of the leading Thai firms, Weerawong C&P maintains its impressive lock on the top echelons of our rankings across all categories. In particular, it stands alone and unchallenged in the ‘Outstanding’ tiers for capital markets, and restructuring and insolvency. Senior partners Weerawong Chittmittrapap and Veeranuch Thammavaranucupt are known for their expertise in capital markets, and corporate and M&A, while its well-regarded disputes team features Phisit Dejchaiyasak and Sakchai Limsiripothong.

Banking and finance

Work highlights

Acted for United Overseas Bank in relation to granting a $940 million term loan to TCC Assets as refinancing of the borrower’s existing facility.

Represented Mizuho Bank on $399 million financing for JX Nippon Mining & Metal’s acquisition of HC Starck Tantalum and Niobium.

Key clients

Bank of China, CIMB Bank, Global Power Synergy, The Siam Commercial Bank, Sumitomo Mitsui Bank

Capital markets

Work highlights

Advised Citigroup Global Markes, HSBC, and ING Bank on the issuance of perpetual additional tier 1 capital securities issued under a Euro medium term note programme by TMB Bank. This deal is the first-ever Basel III-compliant additional tier 1 notes offering from Thailand.

Represented PTT Exploration and Production in a liability management transaction comprising the tender purchase of $500 million subordinated perpetual securities, the establishment of the $3 billion global medium term notes programme, and the issuance of long term senior notes.

Key clients

Asset World, BTS Group Holdings, GIC, Jasmine International

Construction 

Work highlights

Acting for the Office of the Eastern Economic Corridor of Thailand on its $4.8 billion undertaking of the PPP concession project for the Laem Chabang DeepSea Port Phase 3.

Key clients

Department of Highways Thailand, Port Authority of Thailand

Corporate and M&A

Work highlights

Acted for SET-listed power flagship company of PTT Group, Global Power Synergy, on its $4.1 billion acquisition of a majority stake in Glow Energy from Engie Global Developments.

Advised F&N Retail Connection on its joint venture with Maxim’s Group of Hong Kong, whereby the joint venture, Coffee Concepts Thailand, acquired all existing Starbucks outlets in Thailand and became the country’s sole franchisee for 40 years. The deal was valued at $650 million.

Key clients

Charoen Pokphand Foods, Grab, KKR Asia, Panus Poultry, Siam Commercial Bank, Taobao, Thai Beverage, Thai Alliance

Dispute resolution

Work highlights

Representing a major sugar production company in Thailand in two cases where a finance department supervisor committed internal fraud that significantly affected the health of the business and its employees.

Key clients

Advance Finance, Export-Import Bank of the United States, Hero Experience, Pacific Alliance Group, Total Access Communication

Energy

Work highlights

Engaged by the Office of the Energy Regulatory Commission to conduct legal research to revise the relevant legislations including those related to the licensing scheme of the energy business and the compliance with the licence conditions, engineering, safety, environmental and occupational health standards.

Key clients

KPN Energy, PTT Exploration and Production, Planet Energy Holdings, Thai Oil, Wind Energy Holdings

Infrastructure 

Work highlights

Advised the Thai government and the State Enterprise Policy Office of Thailand in drafting the new PPP Act B in Thailand. This is the new legislation governing PPP infrastructure projects.

Representing the Thai government and the Office of the Eastern Economic Corridor of Thailand in relation to undertaking PPP high-speed rail link project for three airports in Bangkok. This important project is valued at $7.6 billion.

Key clients

Bangkok Mass Transit System, CAT Telecom, Northern Bangkok Monorail

Real estate

Work highlights

Advised a domestic hotel and resort company, Dusit Thani, concerning the long-term lease of sections of a building from I’m Chinatown Company in order to develop a hotel in connection with the ASAI Chinatown Project.

Key clients

Amburaya Hotel & Resorts Group, Ananda Development, Index Living Mall, U City

Restructuring and insolvency

Work highlights

Working with Sahaviriya Steel Industries on its $1.9 billion rehabilitation and business reorganisation as demanded by its major creditors in the UK and Thailand.

Key clients

EY Corporate Advisory Services, Krung Thai Bank, Ladprao Plaza, Sriracha Harbour, Triple T Broadband

Technology and telecommunications 

Work highlights

Acted for Plan B Media, the country’s leading Out-of-Home advertising media provider, on its $144 million sale of 18.6% of its shares to VGI Global Media.

Represented Total Access Communication in a landmark agreement to settle legal disputes over the concessionary agreements with CAT Telecom. Both companies had engaged in numerous litigations over the past 27-year concessionary period.

Key clients

Grab, Prananporn, Symphony Communications, Taobao

Client feedback

“The firm is responsive, give practical commercial advice and is always willing to go the extra mile.” – Dispute resolution

“It has meticulous, very smart lawyers and extensive experience.” – Dispute resolution

“It is highly committed to the case and client. It provides direct and quick communications, and a high standard and high quality of work.” – Restructuring and insolvency

 Sakchai Limsiripothong

“He is highly committed and driven. Great expertise.”

“He is very experienced and knowledgeable.”

Jedsarit Sahussarungsi

“Bright, responsive and a pleasure to work with.”

ZICO Law climbs up in our IP, and technology and telecommunications rankings this year. The latter practice continues to represent an impressive range of e-commerce and fintech companies, and is noted for its counsel on FDI and legal compliance on regional initiatives to these clients. The firm is a member of the ZICO Law network that extends its influence and reach across Southeast Asia. Its regional IP capabilities bolster its reputation as one of the go-to IP firms for global and multinational clients. Partners Threenuch Bunruangthaworn and Archaree Suppakrucha are key contacts.

Banking and finance

Work highlights

Advising a US-based investment bank on the implementation of an e-signature platform for client due diligence, anti-money laundering, and providing advice on its account and liquidity management services.

Representing a Malaysian-owned financial institution on the procedures for encumbering Aquawalk Thailand’s assets as security under the country’s laws to secure a cross-border financing facility between the client and Aquawalk.

Key clients

Allianz, Vista Foundation Fund

Corporate and M&A

Work highlights

Advising a drug manufacturer on the relevant licence, restriction and other regulatory requirements for drug importation, distribution, and marketing including the foreign business restrictions.

Acting for regionally-based data company Dattel on its Panelship Programme terms and conditions, and its privacy policy in line with the new data protection legislation.

Representing an engineering service and construction company on its internal companies’ amalgamation and shareholder restructuring for its future IPO.

Intellectual property

Work highlights

Managing global insurance giant Chubb’s trademark portfolio in Southeast Asia.

Representing Thai health and wellness company Mega Lifesciences on the trademark enforcement of its well-known acne treatment medication.

Key clients

Advanced Info Service, Lenzing Aktiengesellschaft, TAC Consumer, United Life Sciences

Labour and employment

Work highlights

Advising a global end-to-end IT services and solutions provider on its revised sales incentive compensation plan under Thai law.

Assisting a luxury Singapore-based hotel chain on legal advice and strategy on the termination of senior management who is also a director of the entity in Thailand.

Client feedback

“The firm is responsive, attentive and flexible.” – Intellectual property

Titirat Wattanachewanopakorn

“Titirat is proactive, responsive and extremely capable. He provides us with relevant advice quickly and efficiently.”