Allen & Gledhill
In 2020, Allen & Gledhill (Vietnam) was established in Ho Chi Minh City. This fully licensed office provides Vietnamese legal advice across major practice areas such as banking and finance, capital markets, and corporate and commercial law. The firm is a fully integrated office of the Allen & Gledhill regional network.
Recent examples of the firm’s deal work include advising Phu My 3 Bot Power Company on the landmark transfer of Vietnam's first foreign-invested build-operate-transfer (BOT) power plant to the Ministry of Industry and Trade and Vietnam Electricity (EVN) upon the expiry of its 20-year term. This precedent-setting conclusion establishes a critical framework for the handover of subsequent BOT projects in Vietnam.
The firm also acted as lead counsel to Mapletree Logistics Trust in its acquisition of two key Vietnamese logistics assets, Mapletree Logistics Park Phase 3 and Hung Yen Logistics Park I, from its sponsor, Mapletree Investments. This transaction was a sophisticated cross-border deal requiring seamless navigation of both Singaporean and Vietnamese legal frameworks.
Infraco Asia Holdings, Krystal Investments, Keppel Land (Saigon Centre), Mapletree Logistics Trust Management, and Phu My 3 Bot Power Company.
“Dedication and good quality.”
"She is patient, dedicated and focused on the work. She also tries the best to meet quality demands and deadlines by the client."
Asia Counsel
Asia Counsel is a well-established and highly regarded law firm based in Ho Chi Minh City with Minh Duong serving as managing partner. The firm assisted multinational corporations, investment funds, venture capital funds, private equity investors, financial institutions and large Vietnamese corporations with their full Vietnam lifecycle – from market entry and M&A to daily operations and regional expansion.
Recent examples of the firm’s deal work include advising Marou Chocolate on a loan from Development Finance Corporation, a development finance institution and agency of the US federal government. The deal was complex because the borrower needed to satisfy strict lending regulations of the US development agency.
Clime Capital, TNB Aura Fund 2, Motherson Group, Sojitz Corporation, and Marou Chocolate.
“Proactive, excellent communication, deep subject-matter expertise.”
“Professionality and comprehensive studies of legal basis.”
“Excellent knowledge and valued advice.”
"Deep knowledge in energy sector. Good English communication skill. Comprehensive report."
Frasers Law Company
Established by Mark Fraser in 2004, full-service commercial law firm Frasers Law Company was the first law firm to receive a foreign law company licence in Vietnam. The firm has established itself as a highly regarded firm in Vietnam. It maintains offices in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. The firm’s breadth of work includes banking and finance, capital markets, and corporate and M&A.
Recent examples of the firm's work include advising the lender consortium on the US$2.75 billion financing for the Nghi Son 2 1200MW power plant, a critical build-operate-transfer (BOT) project in Vietnam's energy sector.
In another landmark mandate, the firm advised the lenders on the project financing of the Monsoon Wind Power Project. This 600MW wind farm is Asia’s first cross-border renewable energy project and represents a milestone in regional energy transition efforts.
Asian Development Bank, ANZ Bank Vietnam, Credit Guarantee and Investment Facility, SmartPay, Sojitz Corporation, Eaton Corporation, Persefoni, Nghi Son 2 Power, and Riot Games.
“Experienced in corporate deals in the Vietnam market, which is a difficult market to navigate, and able to offer practical advice efficiently.”
“They were very knowledgeable of the laws and regulations in Vietnam.”
“Responsive and exceedingly detailed and thorough advice. Sizeable team, notwithstanding which Mark Fraser is very visible and appears to be involved in the day-to-day provision of advice.”
“The results are clear with risks and mitigations.”
“They understand how to work with foreign lenders, balance the interests of lenders and borrowers, and support project operations to operate efficiently and in compliance.”
“Extremely responsive. He will generally respond immediately to confirm receipt of any requests for advice and will meet any set deadlines. Very approachable and has a deep knowledge of the Vietnam market.”
“He manages the work and relationship well and coordinates the internal resources.”
“Listened and addressed the client's risk.”
“Runs a strong team that is responsive and gives detailed and thorough advice.”
“Very knowledgeable of the legal issues specific to Vietnam.”
“Understands the borrower's problem and the lender's requirements and handles the problem effectively.”
“Very knowledgeable and able to provide practical advice in an efficient manner.”
Global Vietnam Lawyers
Founded in 2019, Global Vietnam Lawyers (GV LAWYERS) is a law firm with international reach headquartered in Ho Chi Minh City. The firm covers both transaction and litigation in diversified matters such as tax, labour and employment, M&A, real estate, infrastructure, marine and shipping, intellectual property, trade, investment, education and civil matters.
Recent examples of the firm’s deal work include advising a US-based investment fund and hospitality corporation on its strategic acquisition of a premier resort in Phu Quoc. This transaction was legally complex, as it enabled the buyer to indirectly acquire land use rights in Vietnam, a jurisdiction with strict foreign ownership regulations. The firm structured the deal as a 100% share acquisition of the Vietnamese company that owns the resort, requiring careful navigation of land, investment and corporate law.
In a landmark project mandate, the firm advised Fleming International Vietnam on the implementation of its major solar energy system. This complex transaction required navigating Vietnam's intricate regulatory framework for renewable power generation, ensuring full compliance and successful project commissioning.
Suntory PepsiCo Beverages Vietnam, Fleming International Vietnam, Amata Township Long Thanh Company, and Long An Energy Corporation Company.
“He has logical thinking.”
Indochine Counsel
Established in 2006, Indochine Counsel is a commercial law firm with over 45 lawyers and staff in two offices, Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. The firm positioned itself to help international investors and foreign firms navigate the legal landscape in Vietnam.
Highlights
Recent examples of the firm’s deal work include advising Anta Sports in their asset acquisition in Vietnam. The transaction necessitated navigating regulatory restrictions on retail operations in Vietnam, requiring innovative solutions to ensure the business model complied with local laws.
The firm also advised SUN, a leading rooftop solar provider in Vietnam, in drafting a comprehensive and robust template power purchase agreement to serve as the foundation for its expanding project portfolio. The challenge was to create a forward-looking and legally sound document that not only complied with current regulations but also proactively mitigated risks inherent in rooftop solar projects, thereby securing the long-term viability and bankability of SUN's growing investments.
Key clients
Repdc Green, Solar United Network, and Anta Sports.
Lexcomm
Established in 2016, Lexcomm is a full-service law firm with offices in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Key figures include Pham Ba Linh, who serves as managing partner and head of the energy, project finance and infrastructure practices. The firm is strongest in project development and has robust banking and finance, capital markets and M&A practices.
Recent examples of the firm’s deal work include advising AC Energy on its US$165 million strategic acquisition of a 49% stake in Super Energy's 837MW Vietnam solar platform. This landmark transaction is a "first of its kind", establishing a strategic partnership between ACEN and Super Energy to jointly develop, own and operate renewable energy projects across the ASEAN region.
In another landmark deal, the firm advised Hibiscus Petroleum, Malaysia's first listed independent oil and gas exploration and production company, on all Vietnam law aspects of its high-profile strategic acquisition of Repsol's upstream assets in Malaysia and Vietnam.
Nghi Son Refinery and Petrochemical, HSBC, British American Tobacco, Ørsted Vietnam, TotalEnergies Renewables Asia, Macquarie, and Macquarie’s Green Investment Group.
“Very responsive and market aware.”
“Very responsive and commercial.”
LNT & Partners
Founded in 2006, LNT & Partners is a full-service independent firm with a focus on banking and finance, corporate and M&A, and project development practices. The firm has offices in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi and has expanded its presence in the region with an office in Singapore.
The banking team has experience in advising on matters involving regulatory compliance, project finance and syndicated loans. The M&A team’s expertise covers an array of sectors including banking and finance, real estate, insurance, pharmaceuticals and logistics. The project team is renowned for delivering cutting-edge and multidisciplinary advice to the public and private sector on all aspects of project development.
Projects highlights include This cultural village project is the first of its kind in Vietnam, presenting unprecedented challenges due to the lack of a clear legal framework for title ownership recognition and approval processes.
In M&A, the firm advised Tien Nga Joint Stock Company and affiliated sellers in Vietnam, facilitating the transfer of their 100% stake in nationwide rooftop solar power projects with a combined installed capacity of nearly 30 MWp.
Cathay United Bank, EQuest Education Group, Anjarwalla Collins & Haidermota, DeHeng Law Offices, Asia Business Builders, Avery Dennison ris Vietnam, Techcom Securities, and Power Generation Corporation 1.
“Availability of partners and team. Proactiveness in reaching out for giving advice. Business solution oriented.”
"She is good at insurance-related matters, M&A regulatory matters."
Rajah & Tann LCT Lawyers
Full-service law firm Rajah & Tann LCT Lawyers has offices in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi and is a member of the Rajah & Tann Asia network.
The firm is a consistent performer in banking and finance, M&A and project development. The banking team is experienced, advising both lenders and borrowers, and often acts for financial institutions. The corporate team acts on M&A matters and is also experienced advising venture capital funds and seed companies.
A standout mandate saw the firm advising Singapore-based Synagie on its de-SPAC transaction in Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing. This is Hong Kong’s first successful de-SPAC listing on the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong (SEHK).
The firm also advised EQT Partners Asia on its US$1.1 billion acquisition of Property Guru, and acted for Focus Media, a large elevator media group in the world headquartered in Shanghai, in its acquisition of 85.38% of Goldsun Focus Media, one of the two leading indoor advertising companies in Vietnam.
EQT Partners Asia, Synagie, Focus Media, Corsair Gaming, SAIC Motor Corp, and IDEC Group.
Russin & Vecchi
The international law firm Russin & Vecchi was founded in 1966. It has 10 independent offices across six countries. In Vietnam, the firm has offices in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, with four partners and 20 lawyers. The firm acts as special counsel to local and global clients, and it works with international law firms on transactions in Vietnam.
Highlights
Recent examples of the firm’s banking work include acting as Vietnam counsel for Bank SinoPac – Ho Chi Minh City Branch in a $12 million facility to Kangaroo International Joint Venture Company for investment in its subsidiary - Viet Nhat Motors Joint Stock Company for the construction and operation of the subsidiary’s factory – Viet Nhat Motor Manufacturing and Assembly. The factory funded by the loan is the largest water purifier production facility in Vietnam.
In the M&A space, the firm worked on an on-going M&A transaction in connection with the proposed investment by Chongqing Sanfeng Environment Group and Suez (Shanghai) Investment through the acquisition of a 30% stake of Vietstar, with an existing waste processing plant and a waste-to-energy project in the pipeline. Waste-to-energy (WTE) is a new area in Vietnam. Implementing a waste to energy project in Vietnam involves navigating a novel and complex regulatory and legal framework. The project must comply with environmental regulations, energy laws, waste management policies, and land use regulations.
Project highlights include advising on one of the biggest construction projects in Vietnam recently. The firm acted as legal counsel to Coca-Cola in the establishment of its new factory in an industrial park in Long An Province, taking more than 19 hectares of land with a total investment of approximately $136 million.
Key clients
China Trust Commercial Bank, Bank SinoPac, Greenroof Energy Vietnam, Manulife, Prudential, China National Nuclear Corporation Overseas, Chart Industries, Coca-Cola, EVN HCMC
Testimonials
M&A
“The firm is very responsive. It has broad knowledge of the industry, the regulations in Vietnam. The firm understands our needs and works hard to facilitate the discussion with the other party very effectively.”
“They are truly experts on the law and can provide alternative structures when hitting roadblocks. Also, they are extremely responsive.”
Private equity
“I highly appreciate Russin Vecchi's comprehensive understanding of private equity investment. The expertise and experience of their legal team are evident in navigating the complexities of private equity investment, paying meticulous attention to detail, providing excellent and adequate legal advice throughout the investment process to make successful transactions. Additionally, their unwavering commitment to transparency, timely responsiveness and client satisfaction sets them apart as a trusted legal adviser in the private equity sector, especially in bond deals.”
Project development
“Being wise and careful in your advice to our project with not only professional expertise but also thoughtful practice close to our business.”
“What make them stand out are their dedication and commitment, professional team, listening and understanding the needs from customers, reasonable rate and practical solutions.”
Nhut Nguyen
"Nhut demonstrates a strong business mindset by understanding the importance of client needs in making assessments of legal risks for client to perceive and make decisions. Nhut is very skilled at providing clear and concise legal answers to client’s inquiries. He demonstrates strong attention to detail and is skilled at understanding and addressing client’s needs."
"Nhut has been very helpful in facilitating and closing our real estate M&A transactions, from DD until contracts execution."
"Really understands the law and work arounds."
Han Tran Ngoc
"A good and trustful lawyer who is always responsible for all tasks assigned regardless of how they urgent and complicated with thoughtfulness and cares about client's business."
"I highly appreciate the valuable supports from Han and her team to our business activities. She provides practical solutions helping us to run our business smoothly. Her legal knowledge, dedications, professionalism make her different."
"Han took on my extremely challenging and unprecedented M&A transaction in Vietnam with public scrutiny and high expectation from the shareholders and encountered issues that no one expected, and few had ever seen. She worked tirelessly to make sure that all legal basis and scenarios were laid out and presented it perfectly for my consideration. Also, she was a fantastic bridge to close the gap with the investor. She has stood by every one of my requests and guided me through the entire lengthy process. Though we faced challenges, Han did not falter. Her thorough research provided us the pathway we needed to ride to deal success."
VCI Legal
VCI Legal ws founded by managing partner Tuan Phung in 2022. The firm is headquartered in Ho Chi Minh City with a Hanoi office and another 14 affiliated offices across Asia, America, the Middle East and Europe.
The firm is recognised for its banking and finance, M&A, and project development work. Sectors of activities include manufacturing, FMCG, banking and finance, investment, services, media and technology.
Highlights
The firm's recent work includes providing comprehensive legal services to Global Investment Administration on its Vietnamese business operations, with a focus on share custody, margin lending and collateralised loan structures.
In a separate mandate, the firm advised Solenis Vietnam Company on restructuring its financing, preparing loan agreements to convert a short-term facility into a mid-term loan, and providing full advisory and translation services.
Key clients
Global Investment Administration, Nanga Parbat Investments, Smith Muller Vietnam Company, Hong Ngoc Viet Travel Investment, and Mtv Victory Company.
VILAF
From a small group of lawyers initially working with Magic Circle law firm Clifford Chance in 1993, VILAF has developed into an independent law firm with 90 lawyers, including 15 partners in its two offices in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, which is one of the largest teams of English-speaking business lawyers in Vietnam. Duyen Ha Vo is the chairperson, with Ngoc Anh Bui the managing partner of the Hanoi practice. The firm is ranked among the market-leading firms across the board in the financial and corporate space.
In banking and finance, the firm advised the onshore and offshore lender consortium on the term loan facility for the acquisition of FV Hospital. This transaction represents the largest hospital acquisition in Vietnam's history to date.
In capital markets, the firm advised Nam Long Group and Techcom Securities on a series of corporate bond issuances. The transactions were strategically structured to provide rate-and-term refinancing for the issuer. This transaction was legally innovative, setting a new benchmark for Vietnam's corporate bond market.
M&A highlights include advising SCB X Group in the acquisition of 100% charter capital of Home Credit Vietnam, the second largest consumer finance firm in the market, from Czech investment group PPF.
Korea Development Bank, Vinpearl, Biwase Long An Water, Nam Long Group Corporation, Japan Investment Corporation, SCB X Group, Long Son Petrochemicals, and Nghi Son 2 BOT Company
“They are responsible and provide commercial and practical solutions.”
“Quick response. Professional advice.”
“VILAF has a highly professional team with a pro-active and business-oriented approach.”
“Highly respected by everybody. Very persuasive speech.”
“Always provides professional advice.”
“Mr. Lam has a solid understanding of the business and a sharp legal mind. He is able to get the right angle to approach an issue. He can as well provide a commercial solution to a legal problem as a legal solution to a commercial problem.”
“She is very responsible and personally leads crucial discussions.”
Vision & Associates
Full-service law firm Vision & Associates is staffed with more than 100 lawyers, patent and trademark attorneys and consultants. The firm has offices in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi.
The banking team advises both foreign and local banks on developing their businesses and on transactions. The firm is also often engaged to advise government agencies. The corporate team is capable of handling matters including regulatory compliance, privatisations, restructuring, and mergers and acquisitions. In projects, the firm is active in sectors including transport, energy and real estate, often acting for foreign and local clients.
Recent examples of the firm's work include advising BCPG on a strategic investment in 100MW wind power projects in Vietnam's Gia Lai province, navigating complex regulatory challenges in the country's evolving renewable energy landscape.
In another matter, the firm assisted Kuehne+Nagel with its Vietnamese merger control filing for the acquisition of a 70% stake in City Zone Express Vietnam. This formed part of Kuehne+Nagel's broader global acquisition from Singapore-listed Chasen Holdings. The firm successfully managed the complexities of this multi-jurisdictional transaction, including market definition challenges within Vietnam's logistics sector.
Volcafe Vietnam, Sports Gear, Vinhomes, Infinity Development Holdings Company, Vingroup, BCPG, Vinausteel, The World Bank Vietnam, V-Green Global Charging Station Development, and Kuehne+Nagel (Asia Pacific) Management.
“They are very responsive and efficient in their work.”
“The firm is highly responsive and consistently provides practical, well-considered solutions. Their advice is business-oriented and easy to apply, making them a dependable partner for complex legal and regulatory matters in Vietnam.”
“Responsive and efficient.”
“He is highly responsive, practical, and commercially minded. He provides clear, solution-focused advice, especially in complex matters involving foreign investment, M&A, and infrastructure. His deep understanding of both local law and international expectations makes him a trusted advisor on cross-border projects.”
YKVN
Established in 1999, YKVN is one of the clear market leaders in the financial and corporate space in Vietnam. The firm has grown to become an independent law firm with over 90 legal professionals in three offices in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Singapore. The firm’s deep bench is headed by Truong Nhat Quang.
Recent examples of the firm's work include advising PetroVietnam Power Corporation on a landmark financing for the Nhon Trach 3 and 4 LNG-to-power projects, representing the largest financing from tied ECA lenders in Vietnam's power sector in four years. The transaction is notable for proceeding without a government guarantee, a first in the sector, setting a new precedent for future project developments.
The firm also advised No Va Land Group, Vietnam's second-largest property developer, on the restructuring of its international bonds listed on the Singapore Exchange. This restructuring was unprecedented in scale and complexity, establishing a benchmark for future restructuring efforts by Vietnamese companies.
Additionally, the firm represented Masan Group in its issuance of US$250 million in convertible dividend preference shares to Bain Capital Private Equity. This transaction marks the country's first convertible dividend preference share deal.
Masan Group, Vingroup, Deutsche Bank, JPMorgan, GIC Private Markets, Temasek, Texas Pacific Group, PetroVietnam Power Corporation, Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners, and Export-Import Bank of Korea.
“Fast, enthusiastic, expertise in the field and usually find solution to overcome issues.”
“Professional service, in-depth expertise in banking and finance. Delivered service on time as planned.”
“The personnel at YKVN are highly dedicated, experienced, and knowledgeable. Lawyers and their committed colleagues possess deep expertise and have provided us with enthusiastic and effective support.”
“Extremely strategic thinkers, responsive level of service, and highly connected into the key players in the market and in government.”
“Proactive, thorough and efficient.”
“YKVN excels in separating issues into small modules then solving them step by step in clear procedures. The team foresees different scenarios and gives advice to clients by weighing the pros and cons.”
“She really understands the local regulatory framework and rules.”
“He is the expert in capital markets, banking and finance, M&A and international trade.”
“Hai is extremely responsive and meticulous. He can understand the principles quickly and can represent his clients very well.”
“Professional, dedicated consulting with high technical expertise.”
“Provides deep industry knowledge and strategic advice. He was fundamental to our transaction being successful.”
“She is knowledgeable, hands-on, and supportive.”
ACSV Legal
Established in 2014, Vietnamese law firm ACSV Legal has an office in Ho Chi Minh City.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm is recognised for its corporate and M&A practices. It takes on mandates including mergers, acquisitions, corporate restructuring, joint ventures and private equity.
Sectors of activities include health and fitness, healthcare and pharmaceuticals, education, fintech and energy.
Key clients
Notable clients include California Fitness & Yoga Centers (or FitLG), Pham Nguyen Confectionery, O-We Water, Delta Offshore Energy and Jio Health Clinic.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Project development
"ACSV is highly commercial and practical. They understand their strengths and coordinate collaboration with other law firms for outside expertise. They work closely with their customers, up to the ultimate sponsors, to ensure holistic interests are considered whilst ensuring arm's length advice."
AN Legal
Founded in 2012, AN Legal is a Ho Chi Minh City-headquartered boutique law firm with seven qualified lawyers. The firm has expanded its client base through alliances with Wilberforce TJC Law Corporation in Singapore and HUYN Law in Korea.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm specialises in corporate and M&A work in the real estate sector and takes on work from foreign and local investors and investment funds.
Key clients
Key clients include VinaCapital, Kido Group, Nam Phat Villa and Hotel Company, VinaCapital Danang Resort, Catalina Corporation and Cypress Assets.
Research period review: 30th edition (2019/2020)
The firm continued its focus on the real estate sector, taking on roles for both buyers and sellers on acquisitions and on regulatory compliance work. An interesting mandate saw the firm advise Taekwang Vina Industrial Joint Stock Company on post-acquisition regulatory compliance work. Another highlight saw the firm advise a local investment management company on acquiring a mixed-use project.
Deal highlights: 30th edition (2019/2020)
Cong Hoa Garden development
Cypress Assets $50 million divestment of stake in Sheraton Nha Trang Hotel & Spa
Industrial Development Company $65 million acquisition of
Vinh Phuc Province Industrial Park
VinaCapital Danang Resort $133 million acquisition of Orchard Parkview and Golden Mansion real estate assets
Client feedback: 30th edition (2019/2020)
Financial and corporate
“Wonderful experience. Knowledgeable and responsive!”
“They advised on how the local regulations and laws applied in reality. They did very well.”
“Responsive and good knowledge in their legal field.”
M&A
“AN has good knowledge about the market and can foresee the potential risks in a deal. Their strong network supports the process and makes it quick and efficient.”
“Very responsive and commercial, detailed knowledge of the laws and practical cases in Vietnam, and precise and comprehensive advice.”
Project development
“They provide foreign company standards to foreigners with good local legal knowledge and experience.”
Andersen in Vietnam
Andersen in Vietnam has been in Vietnam since 2013. Its office is located in Ho Chi Minh City. Key figures include Thuan Pham, Giang Pham and Jirasak Latada. The firm has offices throughout the region in Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos and Myanmar.
Focusses / specialisms
Over the past year, the firm's regulatory and corporate practice has grown, with new clients looking to enter the Vietnam market.
The firm's legal and tax advisers provide services through expert teams for projects, banking and finance, corporate, taxation and tax disputes.
APLUS LAW
Active since 2021, Aplus Law is a full-service law firm located in Ho Chi Minh City. Key figures include Nguyen Duy Anh, who serves as the management partner.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm specialises in banking and finance, capital markets, competition/antitrust, construction, corporate and M&A, dispute resolution, regulatory, intellectual property, labour and employment, investment funds, private equity, restructuring and insolvency, and tax.
Asia Legal
Founded in 2017, Asia Legal is a business law firm in Vietnam which has a head office in Hanoi and two offices in Ho Chi Minh City and Quang Ninh province.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm specialises in M&A, inward investment, mining and energy, employment and labour, property and construction, international trade, intellectual property, dispute resolution, outward investment and capital markets.
Its clients come from a broad range of sectors and industries, including major financial institutions, investment funds, multinational corporations, and local private and public companies.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Private equity
"1. They have strong expertise and in-depth knowledge of Vietnam’s political culture and legal developments. Also, they can combine deep local knowledge with international standards of expertise to provide us with basic principles and advance practices in the capital markets, and consult us how to apply such principles and practices in managing our private fund. 2. They served us as trusted advisers and are dedicated to being enthusiastic partners, not merely vendors. That means tailoring to our needs, understanding our requirements, and looking for value-added opportunities to maximise our benefits, rights and interest when negotiating with FPT. 3. They offered us real value and flexibility by utilising creative billing structures and alternative fee arrangements that satisfied our needs. 4. Their employees are experienced legal practitioners who can maintain a high quality of work for a long-term period and hold themselves to an expectation of excellence. Every memo, every opinion, every term and condition they reviewed and every legal advice they gave us was above expectations."
"Wide range and in-depth knowledge of the laws and regulations of Vietnam. Flexible in offering and adjusting the structure of our private fund, as well as other extraordinary terms and conditions we wanted to add to the agreement with FPT. Kind and professional and trustful legal team."
ATIM Law Firm
Founded in 2007, ATIM Law Firm is a full-service firm with offices in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Quang H Trinh serves as senior partner.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm is recognised for its work in the corporate and M&A and project development areas.
The firm’s expertise includes advising on inbound and outbound M&A, joint ventures and regulatory compliance.
Research period review: 30th edition (2019/2020)
During the review period, the firm was primarily active in the corporate and M&A space. The firm advised on several confidential matters related to regulatory compliance, corporate restructuring, and entity establishment.
ATS Law Firm
Founded in 2014, ATS Law Firm is a full-service law firm with offices in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm is noted for its banking and finance, corporate and M&A, and project development practices.
Sectors of activity include real estate, engineering and construction, hospitality, healthcare and fintech.
Baker McKenzie
Baker McKenzie has over two decades of experience in Vietnam and has offices in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. The firm has a highly regarded practice in Vietnam and is helmed by managing partner Frederick Burke.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm boasts a market-leading corporate and M&A practice and has strong banking and finance, capital markets and project development practices as well.
The banking and finance team provides advice on matters including project finance, real estate finance, financial services regulatory, structured finance and asset finance.
The capital markets team is experienced in handling both debt and equity matters.
On the corporate side, the firm acts for domestic and international clients across a diverse range of sectors including banking and financial services, consumer products, real estate, energy, retail, healthcare, food and beverage and technology.
Key clients
The firm’s impressive client list includes Canadian Solar, Hopewell Group, Tata Group, Sumitomo, Maybank International, The Korea Development Bank, HSBC, VNPay, Mittal Steel and Standard Chartered Bank.
Bizlink Lawyers
Full-service law firm Bizlink Lawyers was established in 2007 and has offices in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Do Trong Hai serves as managing partner of the firm.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm is strongest in corporate and M&A, and is active in banking and finance, capital markets and project development.
The firm takes on clients from a range of sectors including real estate, hospitality, industrials and manufacturing, and technology.
Key clients
Key clients include Joint Stock Commercial Bank for Foreign Trade of Vietnam (Vietcombank), Vietnam Joint Stock Commercial Bank for Industry and Trade (VietinBank), Bank for Investment and Development of Vietnam (BIDV), MUFG Bank and Vietcombank Securities.
Bross & Partners
Founded in 2008, Bross & Partners is a well-recognized and reputable local law firm in Vietnam. It has offices in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. The firm specializes in corporate and M&A, real estate and construction, arbitration, litigation and dispute resolution, white collar crimes and criminals.
Highlights
Recent examples of the firm’s deal work include advising
Nghi Son Refinery and Petrochemical (NSRP), a developer of Nghi Son Refinery and Petrochemical Complex Project with value of more than USD 10 billion. The project is considered as biggest foreign investment project in Vietnam and create many jobs for local people, contribute a lot to local budget.
Key clients
Vietnam National Petroleum Group (Petrolimex - PLX), Nghi Son Refinery and Petrochemical (NSRP), Mercantile Exchange of Vietnam (MXV), Trung Nam Construction Investment, Phu Bia Mining Laos
DFDL
DFDL has assisted clients in Vietnam since 1995, advising on both local and international legal and tax matters from its offices in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. The firm advises on all aspects of investments from general regulatory matters to commercially robust, complex and bespoke sophisticated transactions.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm has a strong project development practice and also has well-established banking and finance, capital markets and M&A practices.
The banking team provides advice on matters including acquisition finance, project finance, structured finance and leveraged finance.
The corporate and M&A team is active in industries including energy, real estate, mining, retail, and technology and telecommunications.
The projects team often acts for regulators, financiers and developers and has a particular focus on the clean energy space.
Key clients
Key clients include Asia Development Bank, Standard Chartered Bank, World Bank, IFC, ANZ, French Development Agency, B.Grimm, Total Energy, Hecate Wind, Aker Horizons and Proparco.
DIMAC
Founded in 2015, DIMAC Law Firm is a professional law firm with a head office located in Ho Chi Minh City and two main branches established in Hanoi and Da Nang City. The firm currently has four partners and roughly 35 proactive lawyers and legal assistants.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm is well known for its corporate and M&A, especially in corporate and investment.
Sectors of activities include medicine, energy, mining, technology and real estate.
Its clients include Vietnamese enterprises, international organisations and foreign-invested enterprises operating in Vietnam or investing into Vietnam.
Key clients
Notable clients include Acer Vietnam, ACB Bank, Qair Group (Vietnam), Lock & Lock, Jebsen & Jessen, Herbalife Vietnam, PepsiCo Vietnam, Coteccons Group and Hitachi Plant Technologies (Vietnam).
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
M&A
“DIMAC take my ideas into consideration for the sales strategy and reply to me promptly.”
“Solid understanding of rules and regulations. Good experience, know precedents to suggest effective structure. Strong English proficiency (verbal and document drafting).”
DL&PARTNERS
Founded in 2014, Victory is a full-service law firm headquartered in Ho Chi Minh City. Key figures include Dung Le, who acts as managing partner. The firm has a regional presence through associate firm networks in Korea, Japan, Singapore and Thailand.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm is strongest in corporate and M&A and project development work.
It has experience advising on matters in a wide range of industries including energy, logistics, hospitality, real estate, manufacturing, media, food and beverage and construction.
Key clients
Recent clients include Beta Holdings, Dai Dung and Solarxell.
Research period review: 30th edition (2019/2020)
Highlights from the research period include advising a local manufacturing company on issuing bonds; advising several foreign investors in acquiring local companies; and assisting a foreign projects firm with implementing a rooftop solar project.
The firm strengthened its corporate offering with the additions of counsels Bernadatte Van Lindth from DTH-Law and Vien Dong Le from Indochine Counsel.
Deal highlights: 30th edition (2019/2020)
Ba Ria-Vung Tau sea port development
Beta Holdings restructuring
DTLAW
Vietnamese law firm DTLaw is headquartered in Hanoi and maintains a branch office in Ho Chi Minh City. The firm is led by managing partner Nguyen Tat Thang.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm is recognised for its corporate and M&A and project development capabilities.
The firm is experienced in a range of sectors, including logistics, food and beverage, consumer products, construction, healthcare and real estate.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
M&A
“Professional work. Careful advice, ensuring our interests and the success of the deal.“
“The company performs very professional and comprehensive legal due diligence. Participating in the negotiation of the transfer contract very effectively and actively.”
Duane Morris Vietnam
International law firm Duane Morris & Selvam established its Vietnamese office in Ho Chi Minh City. The firm represents clients including multinational corporations with operations in Asia, as well as businesses seeking to establish investments in Asia. It also can leverage its global platform to facilitate Asia-based companies' entry into markets in the US, Latin America, the UK and beyond.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm is experienced in banking, M&A and project development.
The banking team advised clients on a broad range of matters, from large acquisitions and international bond issuances and syndications to regulatory advice in relation to blockchain-based securities trading and a major digital transformation project for a leading Vietnamese commercial bank.
In the M&A area, the firm has established a strong presence in consumer-facing sectors such as tourism, food and beverage, media and entertainment, and retail and luxury goods.
The firm is particularly known for major power projects involving clean and renewable energy.
Key clients
Key clients include DBS, Bank of Singapore, Vietnam International Bank, JP Morgan, Saint-Gobain, APU Educational Development, City Garden, DatViet VAC Media Entertainment Group, Tan Hung Industrial Zone Joint Stock and Sungrow Power.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Project development
“This firm closely worked with the relevant authorities to obtain our licence in time.”
Restructuring
“Very commercial mindset; creativity, problem solving.”
EPLegal
Established in 2009, EPLegal has developed a specialisation in the oil and gas sector. The firm’s head office is in Ho Chi Minh City, and it also has branches in Hanoi and Da Nang. Outside Vietnam, the firm has offices in Birmingham, Manchester and London in the UK.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm has been providing legal services in support of local Vietnamese and international commercial transactions, incorporations, mergers and acquisitions, maritime and aviation and other legal interests.
The firm also has strong M&A and project development practices and is active in banking and finance.
Key clients
Key clients include Keppel Land, PVECC, BW Offshore, Aqua One Water Corporation, VinaCapital, Sumitomo, LYS Energy Group, Lacroix Holding Group, Vietnam Oil & Gas Group (PVN), Sumitomo Corporation (Japan), PTTEP (Thailand) and Petronas Carigali Vietnam.
Freshfields
International law firm Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer has been active in Vietnam since 1994. The firm has offices in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm has strong work in banking and finance, capital markets, project development and corporate and M&A. It also boasts a restructuring practice.
The banking and finance team has extensive experience advising financial institutions across the gamut of financing transactions.
In M&A, the firm is experienced in financial institution acquisitions, often acting for foreign clients in acquiring and disposing of shares and assets of local financial institutions. It also acts for private equity houses and strategic investors on high-value deals.
The firm’s infrastructure team has historically advised on market-first mandates since 1994, including the first BOT power project in the jurisdiction. Key sectors of focus are conventional and renewable energy, transport, oil and gas, mining, utilities and social infrastructure.
Key clients
Key clients include Asian Development Bank, Japan Bank for International Cooperation, MUFG Bank, Mizuho Bank, Square Peg Capital, Mekong Capital and Stada Arzneimittel.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
M&A
“Excellent understanding of oil & gas business and market practice for international M&A transactions in Vietnam. They will work efficiently under very tight timelines.”
Private equity
“Strong knowledge of transaction structure, legal angles, local regulations and investors' rights.”
Herman, Henry & Dominic
Boutique firm Herman, Henry & Dominic has been active since 2016 and has offices in Saigon and Hanoi. The firm is a member of Lawyers Associated Worldwide (LAW). The firm is recognised for its work in the corporate and M&A space and especially experienced in entity structuring and formation, taxation, capital raising, securities law, and intellectual property protection. It advises both local and domestic companies on corporate transactions across a range of industries.
Highlights
The banking team was active for borrowers on financing. On the capital markets front, the team was more active on debt mandates. They assisted with bond issues during the research period. In M&A the firm was active in private acquisition, merger, divestment and financial investment works.
Key clients
Be Group, Phat Dat Corporation, Thien Viet Securities, L’Occitane International, ILA
KPMG Law Vietnam
Under the leadership of managing partner Richard Stapley-Oh, KPMG Law’s team of over 100 personnel is spread across three offices in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Danang.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm is recognised for its focus on corporate and M&A work. Sectors of experience include real estate, hospitality, healthcare, energy and manufacturing.
Research period review:
33rd edition (2022/2023)
During the review period, the firm was active on several confidential project finance, project development, private acquisition, and restructuring and insolvency deals.
The firm expanded its team with the addition of new partner Geraldine Oh from ZICO Law.
Leadco Legal Counsel
Leadco Legal Counsel is a Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City-based full-service business law firm established in 1992. The firm provides a wide variety of legal services for both individuals and organisations.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm is on the leading edge of banking and finance law, providing legal counsel to several domestic and international financial institutions, including high-profile global banks. It routinely advises banking clients on virtually all matters associated with their operations, licensing, credit transactions, compliance with Vietnamese law, and other matters.
The firm also has extensive experience in the corporate and M&A area. The team are highly experienced in advising on establishment of new business entities and restructuring of existing ones, including joint ventures, joint stock companies, limited liability companies, businesses involving foreign investment, franchises and representative/branch offices.
LMP Lawyers
Established in 2013, LMP Lawyers is a professional law firm with offices in Ho Chi Minh and Ha Noi.
Key figures include Le Minh Phieu, who serves as founder and managing partner. The firm has expertise in mergers and acquisitions, international trade and commerce, Fintech, banking and finance, labor and employment, intellectual property, and commercial dispute resolution.
Highlights
In M&A the firm was active on strategic deals on both the buy and sell side. The deals were in the logistics, food and beverage, consumer goods and services, healthcare, and industrial and manufacturing sectors.
Key clients
Pizza 4PS, Global Green Energy
Mayer Brown
Active in Vietnam since 1994, Mayer Brown
performs consistently across the financial and corporate space from two offices in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. The firm performs consistently well in banking and finance, capital markets, corporate and M&A, and project development. The firm’s ability to act as both international and local counsel on large project mandates provides it with an edge over its competitors. The firm is active in a range of sectors such as financial services, real estate, food and beverages, education, and natural resources.
Highlights
In a landmark project finance mandate, the firm advised
Asian Development Bank (ADB), Export Finance Australia (EFA) and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in relation to the project financing of the 144 MW Lotus wind farm in Quang Tri Province, Vietnam. It is the first limited recourse project financing of a wind power project in Vietnam by international lenders without export credit agency cover. It is also one of the largest wind power projects developed to date in Vietnam.
Testimonials
“Strong legal expertise, practical advice, dedicated services.” (M&A client)
Key clients
Asian Development Bank (ADB), Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Export Finance Australia (EFA), Norfund
Nishimura & Asahi
Active in the jurisdiction since 2010,
Nishimura & Asahi has offices in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi and is the first Japanese firm to establish operations in Vietnam. The firm is recognised for its corporate and M&A work.
Highlights
Recent examples of the firm’s deal work include advising
Mitsubishi UFJ Financial (MUFG), on the acquisition of 100% of the shares of HC Consumer Finance Philippines and 85% of the shares of Home Credit Indonesia. The transaction is legally innovative due to its groundbreaking nature within the realm of Point-of-sale (POS) loans. It also demonstrates the firm's capacity to handle unique cross-border deals.
Key clients
Lion Corporation, T Capital Partners, Toyota Industries, Mitsubishi UFJ Financial, Shikoku Electric Power, Aeon Financial Service, Carlyle, Toenec Corporation
PLF Law Firm
Established in 2009, Vietnamese firm
PLF Law Firm has 15 lawyers and maintains an office in Ho Chi Minh City. Since 2017, the firm has been in association with LawPlus, a law firm focusing on the Thailand and Myanmar markets.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm is noted for its banking and finance and corporate and M&A practices.
Key sectors of focus include manufacturing, real estate, technology, food and beverage.
Key clients
Key clients include Tech-Link Silicones, Viet Glove Corporation, Kurabo Vietnam, HTech Resources, and Boncafe Vietnam.
Client feedback: 31st edition (2020/2021)
Project development
"PLF is very detailed in its procedure and this style of law firm is a great support to us: it explains to the other party an accurate picture of the risks they are taking."
PwC Legal
Active since 2000, PwC Legal Vietnam is a full-service law firm with offices in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Key figures include Le Anh Tuan, who serves as director, and partners Phan Thi Thuy Duong and Eva Szurminska Jaworska. Access to PwC’s global networks provides the firm with an edge when catering to clients’ needs.
Focusses / specialisms
PwC Legal in Vietnam is ranked for its corporate and M&A and project development work.
The firm takes on clients from sectors such as agriculture, real estate, and food and beverage.
Tilleke & Gibbins
Regional law firm Tilleke & Gibbins has been active in the Vietnam market since 1992 and has offices in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. The firm also has offices in Bangkok, Jakarta, Vientiane, Phnom Penh and Yangon.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm has strong corporate and M&A and project development practices and is also active in the banking and finance space.
The corporate team has particular strength advising on market entry, corporate formation and licensing, and mergers and acquisitions.
In projects, the firm has experience acting for national and international operators in the petroleum industry, as well as companies focused on new energy technologies and renewables such as solar power and wind power.
Key clients
Notable clients include Wirecard.
Venture North Law
Venture North Law is a boutique law firm founded in 2013 with a focus on the corporate and M&A practice area. The firm is helmed by managing partner Nguyen Quang Vu and is headquartered in Hanoi.
Focusses / specialisms
M&A and investment is the core practice of the firm. The team is experienced in assisting clients on greenfield investment, joint ventures and acquisitions.
The firm takes on clients from sectors including real estate, technology, consumer products, hospitality, energy, fintech and transport.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Private equity
“Venture North Law provided us with a very efficient structure for the deal. They are also very good at drafting transaction documents.”
Watson Farley & Williams LVN
In May 2019, LVN & Associates became a fully integrated member of the Watson Farley & Williams’ network to form
Watson Farley & Williams LVN. The firm is located in Hanoi with Linh Doan being a key figure.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm’s strength lies in its banking and projects practices. It is focused on the energy and infrastructure sectors and is capable of advising clients throughout the energy project life cycle. The firm has been involved in almost all BOT coal-fired power projects in Vietnam and is also active in the renewable energy space.
In the projects space, the firm advises government agencies, international lenders and investors on both inbound and outbound work including regulatory issues, and project finance and foreign investment deals.
Key clients
Notable clients include The Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, Toyo Ink, and the Asian Development Bank.
ZICOlaw
With offices in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, ZICO Law in Vietnam has been active since 2011 and operates as a full-service law firm. The firm boasts membership of the regional network of ZICO Law.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm has strong banking and finance, corporate and M&A, and project development practices.
The banking team advises clients such as financial sponsors, corporations and financial institutions across all stages of transactions.
The corporate team acts for a variety of clients, including sovereign wealth funds, real estate developers and private equity funds.
The projects team has experience in sectors including energy, utilities, oil and gas, transport, real estate and construction.
Key clients
Notable clients include China Development Bank, Hong Leong Bank Berhad, Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, United Overseas Bank, HSBC, Raito Kogyo, Khazanah Nasional Berhad, Savills Group and Tai Yuen.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
M&A
“ZICO is very professional in handling cross-border transactions, familiar with Vietnamese law, and can efficiently and quickly respond to our questions regarding local laws, which provides great support to our cross-border transactions.”
“Pro-business advice with high integrity and expedited professionalism.”
