Despite continuing to be a go-to by regional investors engaging with LNG and LNG-to-power ventures in the region, A&O Shearman has benefitted from the country’s driven focus towards solar and wind projects, witnessing an ever-increasing series of blockbuster instructions regarding these assets. The firm is called upon by a stellar list of global funds, corporates and financial institutions for its broad lens of focus regarding energy enterprises, and has been able to expand this list through its highly-regarded approach towards evolving areas in the market such as battery storage, carbon capture, waste-to-energy and wastewater solutions. Group head Adam Moncrieff’s extensive practice encompasses both the transaction and financing piece for the full range of energy asset types, with infrastructure projects including logistics hubs and transport builds rounding an impressive portfolio of matters. Fellow co-head Duc Tran is a leading projects lawyer and works closely with investors and lenders on a wealth of financing agreements, including initial project financing and syndicated loans, as well as overseeing the M&A piece on a number of deals. Thuy Huynh continues to be an active presence in the practice, demonstrating capable proficiency advising on cross-border acquisitions and financings.
Projects and energy in Vietnam
A&O Shearman
Practice head(s):
Adam Moncrieff; Duc Tran
Other key lawyers:
Thuy Huynh
Testimonials
‘Accountability and proactive support from partners, providing simple workable and executable solutions.’
Key clients
Athena Energy Holdings
Siam Commercial Bank Public Company Limited
responsAbility Investments AG
Renova Inc.
Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB)
Asian Development Bank (ADB)
Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC)
Korea Trade Insurance Corporation (K-sure)
Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC)
Marubeni Corporation
KEPCO
Landesbank Baden-Wuerttemberg (LBBW)
The Export-Import Bank of Korea (KEXIM)
Sumitomo Corporation
Work highlights
- Advised SK E&S, South Korea’s largest private renewable energy operator, on its acquisition of a majority stake in nearshore wind projects in Vietnam from Gia Lai Power Electricity JSC.
- Advised ADB, JICA and other commercial lenders in relation to the project financing of an 88 MW onshore wind farm in Ninh Thuan province, sponsored by BIM Energy Holding Corporation and ACEN Vietnam Investments Pte. Ltd.
- Advised responsAbility Investments AG, a Swiss sustainable asset manager focusing on impact investing, on the non-recourse project financing of up to $12m to Norsk Solar Vietnam Ltd for Norsk Solar’s financing of commercial & industrial solar projects in Vietnam.
Allens
Boasting a client portfolio featuring a litany of multinational energy companies, global investment funds and international financial institutions, Allens is able to provide comprehensive projects advice due to the expertise of not only its Vietnam-based practitioners but its network of lawyers across the continent. The firm stands out for its leading offshore wind offering, working with some of the world’s largest renewable developers, as well as demonstrating strong work regarding solar projects and battery storage ventures. Both team heads Giles Cooper and Melissa Keane are highly respected within the market, with the former renowned for his work with developers and investors on greenfield projects and the latter on infrastructure M&A and associated regulatory issues. Promoted to partner in 2022, Ngoc Anh Tran works closely with clients regarding lucrative cross-border investment opportunities, with notable specialism in oil and gas enterprises, while Huyen Nguyen has a broad practice that encompasses both conventional and renewable energy assets. Both Huong Tran and Ha Le have been instrumental to the group’s legal counsel over the past twelve months, with impressive activity on the team’s most blockbuster deals.
Practice head(s):
Giles Cooper; Melissa Keane
Other key lawyers:
Ngoc Anh Tran; Huyen Nguyen; Huong Tran; Ha Le
Testimonials
‘Melissa Keane and Huyen Nguyen together have strong legal and technical knowledge and high competency. They can provide outstanding legal and professional services, especially in the field of energy in Vietnam and in structuring transactions.’
‘They have a great experience.’
‘The team has demonstrable experience in the energy and infrastructure sector in Vietnam.’
Key clients
ExxonMobil
Mitsui Oil Exploration Company (MOECO)
Vung Ang II Thermal Power JSC (VAPCO)
Siemens Energy Global GmbH & Co KG
Corio Generation
Equinor Wind Power AS
Ørsted Taiwan Limited and Ørsted Vietnam LLC
Actis
International Finance Corporation (IFC)
Work highlights
- Assisting MOECO in all aspects of the development of the Block B Project Chain.
- Advising Actis on its investment in Levanta Renewables, a Southeast Asia-focused renewables platform.
- Assisting Corio Generation in the partnership with FECON, a Vietnamese construction and infrastructure group, to jointly develop a large-scale offshore wind project located in the Ba Ria Vung Tau Province, Vietnam.
Frasers Law Company
Frasers Law Company is instructed by lenders, sponsors and investors on high-value financing and acquisition deals, acting on an impressive array of energy assets including oil and gas, solar and wind, and utility projects. Furthermore, the group demonstrates its full-service capability through its engagement with transport and marine infrastructure, including toll road and bridge financing, as well as handling large-scale, cross-border digital infrastructure enterprises. Founder and team head Mark Fraser leverages nearly 30 years of regional experience to manage a number of the firm’s most consequential client relationships and mandates, with considerable expertise in M&A, financing and project development. Co-head Justin Gisz also possesses considerable experience in the market, and has been largely focused on renewable energy ventures over the past twelve months. Both Nguyen Mai Phuong and Ho Thuy Ngoc Tram have been highly active supporting a number of the firm’s key mandates, with both displaying excellent financing proficiencies and a wide understanding of assets.
Practice head(s):
Mark Fraser; Justin Gisz
Other key lawyers:
Nguyen Mai Phuong; Ho Thuy Ngoc Tram
Testimonials
‘Breadth and depth of expertise in Vietnam law and relevant international laws. Cross-firm collaboration and international expertise.’
‘Mark Fraser is the Rolls Royce of lawyers in Vietnam. Mark addresses not only the specific legal issues per the mandate, but provides contextual information that helps clients make more informed and better decisions.’
‘Frasers have always been very prompt in delivering the support needed and their advice is clear and to-the-point.’
‘Mark Fraser is extremely responsive and provides very practical and commercially oriented advice based on his extensive experience working in Vietnam.’
‘Frasers Law’s team gives not only sound legal advice but also pragmatic and commercially valuable insights.’
‘Mark Fraser is not only engaging at the beginning but available and involved when required.’
‘Mark Fraser has an excellent reputation and continues to be very hands-on on transactions.’
‘Fraser has strong lawyer team who give experienced and practical legal advice on project procedures and working with the authorities. We also highly appreciate the collaboration and honesty of the team when the project faces challenges on the timeline and needs understanding of the authorities’ requirements.’
Key clients
Amkor Technologies
Asia Development Bank
Coro Energy Plc
Geogas Enterprise SAS
Japan Bank for International Cooperation
Korean EXIM Bank
Lineage Logistics
Looop Inc.
Origin Energy PLC
PT Medco Energy International
PTT Public Company Limited
Quanta Computer Inc
SkyX SOLAR
Sojitz Corporation
TotalEnergies Renewables SAS
VinaCapital
Work highlights
- Advising senior lenders on the project financing of the Monsoon Wind Power Project. The Project entails the construction and operation of a 600-megawatt (MW) wind farm, battery energy storage system, and associated substation and 22-km transmission line located in Sekong and Attapeu provinces of Lao PDR.
- Advising TotalEnergies on a tender process called by the Vietnamese government for the awarding of contract(s) for onshore wind project development, in consortium with a Vietnamese entity.
- Advised SkyX Solar on its acquisition of an extensive portfolio of rooftop solar assets in Vietnam, from Sungrow.
Lexcomm Vietnam LLC
With development and financing mandates in its impressive work portfolio, Lexcomm Vietnam LLC continues to be a leading player in the energy and infrastructure market, advising some of the globe’s largest asset managers, financial institutions and developers on high-value regional and cross-border deals. Oil and gas mandates remain the cornerstone of the practice, but a steady stream of renewable projects pertaining wind, solar and hydropower have also kept the group’s practitioner’s busy, alongside critical transport infrastructure construction and redevelopments. Founding partner and department lead Pham Ba Linh is proficient across the full gamut of energy and infrastructure financing, including project, leveraged and acquisition financing, and commands a strong understanding of the PPP market. Fellow founding partner and team head Nguyen Viet Ha also acts as head of M&A and excels across a range of acquisitions, divestments and joint ventures, whilst also possessing previous in-house industry experience at a leading telecommunications company.
Practice head(s):
Pham Ba Linh; Nguyen Viet Ha
Testimonials
‘Pham Ba Linh is very responsive and gives direct attention to his matters. He is our main contact and the person on whom we rely.’
‘Sector-focus experts and good value-for-money.’
‘Pham Ba Linh has a very strong track record in Vietnamese energy and projects work. The firm’s product is on par with some of the regional heavyweights. In addition, their responsiveness is excellent, they provide good value for money, and they are very easy to collaborate with.’
‘Pham Ba Linh really understands the industry, and having spent time previously in-house he is very attune to ensuring that his advice is client-focused.’
‘Pham Ba Linh knows the oil and gas sector very well. He is very practical and efficient.’
Key clients
BP| Singapore Pte Limited
BP Castrol
Ørsted
Macquarie
Bayerische Landesbank
Harbour Energy
Eni Vietnam B.V.
Hibiscus Petroleum
EDP |Renova|veis
Nghi Son Refinery and Petrochemical LLC
PTT Global Chemical
SK ecoplant Co., Ltd.
Alcoa
GreenYellow
BlackRock Real Assets
BlackRock Renewable Energy Group
The Boeing Company
Thai Oil Public Company Limited/GPSC
BCPG Public Company Limited
Iberdrola España Renovables
Japan Petroleum Exploration Co., Ltd. (JAPEX)
AC Renewables International Pte. Ltd.
Mitsubishi Corporation/|Diamond Gas International
New Fortress Energy
Alstom Transport
POSCO Engineering & Construction
Woodside Energy
Sojitz Corporation
Dubai Ports (DP) World
Korean National Oil Corporation (KNOC)
Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO)
Repsol Vietnam
Dragon Capital
Nexif Energy
Deloitte Consulting LLP
Levanta Renewables
Work highlights
- Advising a consortium of national and international contractors in relation to their tender for the construction of Phase 1 of a strategic “first-of-its-kind” US$14.12 billion Long Thanh International Airport in Vietnam.
- Advising NSRP on highly complex project financing issues for a $9bn landmark Vietnam oil refinery project, being Vietnam’s largest foreign investment project to date over the last 30 years.
- Advising AC Energy in relation to its $165m high-profile strategic acquisition of 49% interest in a 837 MW Vietnam solar platform of Super Energy.
VILAF
Frequently sought out by foreign investors due to its reputation as a leading player in the LNG and gas sectors, VILAF act on an impressive display of joint ventures, acquisitions, divestments and financing mandates, both domestic and international, showing further expertise regarding regulatory, environmental, contractual and due diligence work. The practice is regularly engaged in high-value transactions pertaining to a wide range of traditional and renewable energy sources, with an increased flow of mandates regarding wind, solar and hydropower. The group is led by three individuals, the first being Phong Tran who also sits in the banking and finance and capital markets practice, leveraging this financing proficiency to advise international lenders on first-of-its-kind funding structures for gas and LNG projects. The other two team heads are Duyen Vo and Anh Dang, who have both been highly active over the past twelve months, with the former demonstrating competence handling the development and construction piece within a strong volume of renewable energy deals, and the latter recognised for his broad expertise spanning both financing and M&A. Lam Nguyen, who has previous experience in a governmental advisory role, has overseen a number of joint ventures, acquisitions and financings.
Practice head(s):
Phong Tran; Duyen Ha Vo; Anh Dang
Other key lawyers:
Lam Nguyen; Anh Bui
Testimonials
‘Collaboration between VILAF’s team and our members is really close, creating deep understanding of the subject matters.’
Key clients
AES Corporation
Mitsui & Co. Ltd.
Marubeni Corporation
Long Son Petrochemicals Company
Nghi Son 2 BOT Company Limited
Van Phong Power Company Limited
Denham Capital/Nexif Energy
Japan Petroleum Exploration Company Limited
Gia Lai Electricity Joint Stock Company
Soga Pluto Company Limited
Sumitomo Corporation
ACWA Power
Fecon
Work highlights
- Advised AES Corporation in the $1bn joint venture development of LNG with PVGas.
- Advised Denham Capital/Nexif Energy on the sale of its $605m renewable energy portfolio to Ratch Group.
Baker McKenzie
Well-versed in the sale and purchase, financing, development and construction of infrastructure and energy projects in the region, Baker McKenzie receives instructions from a range of clients involving an array of different asset types, providing counsel due to the team’s deep-founded understanding of regulatory issues such as contractual and agreement negotiations and environmental compliancy. Oanh Nguyen is chiefly recognised for her banking and finance experience and acts as a leading figure in the group. Thanh Hai Nguyen continues to be a tour-de-force in the practice, acting on a multitude of matters and demonstrating excellence in renewable energy transactions as well as large-scale project developments.
Practice head(s):
Oanh Nguyen; Thanh Hai Nguyen
Testimonials
‘Thanh Hai Nguyen always gives timely advice. His knowledge of the renewable energy industry is exceptional.’
‘Very knowledgeable about power and energy security issues.’
‘We value the legal advices from the team; always insightful with clear recommendations for course.’
Key clients
Acciona Energia Global
Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Asian Development Bank
EDP Renováveis, S.A.
KEB Hana Bank
Work highlights
- Advising Acciona on its close-to 50% acquisition of The Blue Circle (TBC)’s portfolio of renewable energy projects in Asia with a total capacity of 2,416MW, including six wind power projects in Vietnam with a total capacity of 235,4MW.
- Advising EDPR on the acquisition of two solar power projects, comprising Xuan Thien Thuan Bac (with the capacity of 95.5MWp) and Xuan Thien Ninh Thuan (with the capacity of 158.9MWp).
- Advising DFAT on conducting a legal study on the potential of utilising the public-private partnership (PPP) framework for offshore wind power project developments in Vietnam.
DFDL Legal & Tax
DFDL Legal & Tax provides a wide offering owing to its depth and breath of practitioners located in and beyond Vietnam, and is particularly geared to act on major renewable projects, most notably solar and wind. Beyond established expertise in M&A, capital markets and financing, the firm has been active on regulatory and project development aspects of builds, including project structuring, document preparation and investment structuring. PhongAnh Hoang co-leads the practice alongside Dave Seibert, with both possessing a broad practice working closely with a stellar range of developers and investors. Martin Desautels is an M&A specialist, with proficiency across the relevant due diligence and regulatory aspects, while Kevin Hawkins has been primarily active on solar rooftop projects.
Practice head(s):
PhongAnh Hoang; Dave Seibert
Other key lawyers:
Martin Desautels; Kevin Hawkins
Testimonials
‘They are trusted experts in the local energy industry.’
‘Good local law and practice knowledge, combined with partners who have international experience to assist with tone and style of advice for international investor clients.’
Key clients
Banpu Public Company Limited
Sunseap Commercial & Industrial Assets (Vietnam) Co. Ltd
RATCH Group Public Company Limited
DIF Capital Partners
Aker Horizons
Work highlights
- Advised a consortium comprising of two energy companies on participating in an auction sale process involving the sale of 100% of Singapore-based Nexif Energy, a leading Asia-Pacific renewable energy-focused platform.
Duane Morris Vietnam LLC
Capable of handling the financing, development, construction as well as sale and purchase of a range of projects pertaining to both conventional and renewable energy builds as well as civil and transport infrastructure structures, Duane Morris Vietnam LLC continues to be a go-to by clients for their projects. With a vast reach of knowledge of the region, the firm also provides trusted counsel to developers by assisting them target and acquire land area opportunities to locate and carry out large-scale energy ventures such as wind and solar, LNG, and mining. Nguyen Thi Lang heads the team and leverages real estate, construction and commercial knowledge to provide comprehensive M&A advice to clients, whereas fellow group lead Oliver Massmann is chiefly noted for his wide understanding of asset types such as fossil fuels, utilities and digital infrastructure.
Practice head(s):
Nguyen Thi Lang; Oliver Massmann
Testimonials
‘The team has a wide range of expertise in corporate, M&A and projects matters. They appear a trusted legal adviser who we can contact anytime when we need their legal advice.’
‘Nguyen Thi Lang is a very well-known lawyer. She’s smart, has good legal knowledge and can provide prompt feedback and advice to us.’
Key clients
Ca Mau 1A Energy JSC
GAW NP Capital
Work highlights
- Advised Ca Mau on the negotiation and execution of a variety of cross-border contracts regarding a 350MW offshore wind farm.
- Advised GAW NP Capital on the acquisition of target land and the development for the construction of a ready-built-factory in Northern Vietnam.
Hogan Lovells International LLP
Known for its global capabilities, including a swathe of offices located across the continent, Hogan Lovells International LLP has seen a marked increase in mandates pertaining to the financing of PPPs, as well as the refinancing of established energy structures. Recently, the firm has been involved in hydropower, wind, solar, water projects, in addition to infrastructure enterprises such as port terminals. Department head Gaston Fernandez has notable experience advising on cross-border financing matters and is a key contact for a multitude of financial services and investors. Ngoc Nguyen is familiar with government bodies as well as state-owned utility companies, while Long Huynh has a strong track record on brownfield acquisitions and project financing.
Practice head(s):
Gaston Fernandez
Other key lawyers:
Ngoc Nguyen; Long Huynh
Key clients
Mainstream Renewable Power
French Development Agency (AFD)
International Finance Corporation (IFC)
Work highlights
- Advising Mainstream Renewable Power on the development and financing of an offshore wind project in the Soc Trang province in Vietnam.
YKVN
Demonstrating cross-border capabilities and a depth of expertise across M&A, financing and development work, YKVN LLP’s projects team is frequently instructed by international and regional financial institutions to drive forward their energy ventures. The firm is also noted for its handling of major infrastructure developments and expansions, including airports and ports. Truong Nhat Quang heads the group and continues to be a highly active dealmaker with a strong understanding of both traditional and renewable energy assets, while Duong Thu Ha is recommended for her financing work. Beyond her work in transport infrastructure, Vu Dieu Huyen has shown strong engagement with a number of large-scale wind developments, including advising on unique financing packages.
Practice head(s):
Truong Nhat Quang
Other key lawyers:
Doung Thu Ha; Vu Dieu Huyen; Nguyen Van Hai
Testimonials
‘The team is responsive and delivers good quality advice. Its strength is the accuracy of the products and practicality of the advice and solution.’
‘Nguyen Van Hai has a good commercial sense and deep understanding of the Vietnamese market.’
Key clients
Bangkok Bank Public Company Limited
Bangkok Bank Public Company Limited Ho Chi Minh Branch
Work highlights
- Advised Bangkok Bank Public Company Limited (BBL) and Bangkok Bank Public Company Limited, Ho Chi Minh Branch (BBL HCM) on the financing of the 48MW Tra Vinh V1-2 Offshore Wind Power Plant Project.
APFL & Partners Legal Vietnam LLC
APFL & Partners Legal Vietnam LLC is an established adviser to a range of clients active in the energy and infrastructure sectors, demonstrating a high level of activity in the social and transport infrastructure spaces. The team is able to cover the whole project piece, including the financing and due diligence work through to contract drafting, design and construction. Furthermore, the firm possesses a strong M&A proficiency, most significantly epitomised by Nicolas Audier and real estate and property-focused Nicolas Picard. Etienne Laumonie is a key figure in the group for his capital markets and banking knowledge, helping a number of clients structure their investments in greenfield ventures. Other key contacts include Antoine Logeay and Christophe Cougnaud.
Other key lawyers:
Nicolas Audier; Etienne Laumonier; Nicolas Picard; Antoine Logeay; Christophe Cougnaud
Key clients
Central Group
Canal+
Apave International
HAVAS
L’Oréal
Accor
CMA-CGM
Securitas
EPLegal Limited
Oil and gas projects form the cornerstone of the practice at EPLegal Limited, with the firm positioned to act on the transaction, financing and regulatory pieces of projects. Joint team heads Tony Nguyen and Annie Ngo leverage previous oil and gas industry experience to advise clients on a range of issues, with the former possessing a strong litigation background and the latter a detailed regulatory understanding. Tuyen Nguyen joined the group from a real estate development company in April 2023, acting as the third team head and bolstering the group’s corporate and M&A offering.
Practice head(s):
Tony Nguyen; Annie Ngo; Tuyen Nguyen
Testimonials
‘This team including, Annie Ngo and Tony Nguyen, are well connected to companies in many different areas. They have a well-disciplined team of lawyers who work very hard and are very responsive to requests.’
‘Annie Ngo and Tony Nguyen are both extremely hardworking individuals. They are intelligent and very responsive lawyers.’
‘EPLegal is truly a reliable adviser. Their team has provided invaluable advice and their expertise has been instrumental.’
Key clients
Son My LNG Terminal LLC
Binh Son Refining & Petrochemical Joint Stock Company
PVGAS LNG
Thang Long Maritime Joint Stock Company
Petrovietnam Domestic Exploration Production Operating Company Limited
PTSC Production Services Joint Stock Company
Hdec-Sinohydro Consortium
Work highlights
- Representing a state-owned company in a billion-dollar international arbitration case against a consortium as contractor of an EPC contract.
- Advising Son My LNG Terminal Limited Liability Company on all legal issues arising out of corporate and business activities and LNG master agreements.
- Representing an Indian company contractor of a hydropower project in Vietnam in a dispute in relation to breach of payment obligations under EP contract.
KPMG Law in Vietnam
Showing considerable expertise regarding sea and port infrastructure, as well as airport builds and extensions, KPMG Law in Vietnam works closely with industry veterans on a range of financing, construction and developments deals, with the added bonus of possessing a world-renowned tax and advisory arm in its arsenal. Head of KPMG in both Vietnam and Cambodia, Richard Stapley-Oh , continues to oversee the firm’s most consequential client relationships and projects, while Nguyen Hoang Ly is highly adept at capital markets, banking and financing. Geraldine Oh joined in February 2023 from ZICO Law.
Practice head(s):
Richard Stapley-Oh; Nguyen Hoang Ly; Geraldine Oh
LNT & Partners
Providing an end-to-end service that includes the transaction and financing piece through to contract drafting and negotiating as well as regulatory work, LNT & Partners has recently been engaged with a wide portfolio of matters, demonstrating strong asset understanding particularly regarding thermal power and renewable energies. Net Le and Minh Vu co-lead the practice, with the former being well regarded for his M&A prowess and the latter for her regulatory and contractual expertise. Thinh Vu works closely with clients engaging with cola and thermal power projects, whereas Le Thanh Hieu is adept at addressing the full range of document and contractual issues arising from financing, transactional and development proceedings.
Practice head(s):
Net Le; Minh Vu
Other key lawyers:
Thinh Vu; Le Thanh Hieu
Testimonials
‘From the outset, LNT & Partners team exhibited a deep understanding of our industry and legal needs. They provided us with comprehensive guidance on complex matters, ensuring that we were well-informed and equipped to make the right decisions for our business.’
‘LNT & Partners lawyers are not only highly knowledgeable and skilled, but they also demonstrate a genuine commitment to our success. We have consistently received timely and insightful advice, tailored to our specific circumstances.’
‘Le Net’s responsiveness and dedication to our legal needs have been exceptional. Whether it’s negotiating complex agreements or providing guidance on regulatory matters, he always delivers practical solutions that align with our business objectives.’
‘Working with Vu Thanh Minh has been a game-changer. Her deep expertise in contract law and her ability to anticipate potential pitfalls have saved us time and resources. She is not just a legal adviser, but a strategic partner who understands our business goals and provides actionable advice.’
‘We value LNT & Partners not just as legal advisors, but as strategic partners invested in our success. The team’s ability to balance legal expertise with a business-oriented mindset sets them apart. Their proactive approach in identifying potential legal hurdles and proposing creative solutions has given us a competitive edge in the market.’
‘Working with Le Net from LNT & Partners has been a transformative experience for our company. His deep legal expertise and strategic insights have guided us through complex transactions with precision.’
‘Vu Thanh Minh stands out for her unwavering dedication to our interests. Her ability to understand our industry, coupled with her legal acumen, has helped us navigate complex regulatory challenges. She is a trusted partner who goes above and beyond to provide comprehensive solutions.’
‘It’s not often that you find a lawyer like Vu Thanh Minh, who is not only exceptional in her field but also genuinely cares about her clients. Her ability to break down complex legal issues into actionable steps has empowered us to make informed decisions. Vu Thanh Minh is a valuable partner who we trust wholeheartedly.’
Key clients
BW Industrial Development JSC (BW)
Work highlights
- Advised Industrial Development JSC (BW) on its lease and development of land in an industrial park in Quang Ninh.
Vietthink Law Firm
Vietthink Law Firm capitalises on its strong construction and development understanding to act on contractual document drafting and negotiations, as well as the investment and transaction piece. Waste-to-energy projects are the flagship component of the team’s work, which also demonstrate competence dealing with solar, hydropower and wind assets. The practice is jointly steered by Le Dinh Vinh and Nguyen Thanh Ha, who is noted for her strong understanding of renewable energy and green technologies; Bui Thi Minh Thuy, who is a key figure for M&A work; and Dau Quoc Dzung, who has commendable expertise across tax, insurance and corporate work.
Practice head(s):
Le Dinh Vinh; Nguyen Thanh Ha; Bui Thi Minh Thuy; Dau Quoc Dzung
Other key lawyers:
Le Van Tien; Ngo Dieu Linh
Testimonials
‘Great team of lawyers with different expertise and deep knowledge of domestic and international law. Very customer driven with professional approach.’
‘Vietthink is a professional law firm with professional legal consulting services. Vietthink team always promptly gives us legal plans and solutions to meet our needs and wants.’
‘Le Dinh Vinh and Nguyen Thanh Ha of Vietthink have extensive knowledge, practical experience and are well-known in the legal profession. They always timely identify legal risks and give us appropriate and effective solutions.’
‘Ngo Dieu Linh is a young lawyer, who has always coordinated in a timely manner and with experience and professionalism to provide us with high quality legal services and meet the requirements.’
‘I am impressed by their fast-catching and straight-going to our problem. Their solutions always match our demands and even more. In addition, they also lead us to all the other relevant and related issues on our matter and as such, we can see the whole picture of our project as well as the potential risks that we may meet.’
‘Le Dinh Vinh and Nguyen Thanh Ha of Vietthink are smart in approaching issues. Their excellent overall vision and extremely rich practical experience are what we value in them.’
‘We are impressed by Vietthink’s consulting solutions in the field of projects and energy.’
‘Le Dinh Vinh and Nguyen Thanh Ha have both experience in state management, professional knowledge and experience in the fields of project investment and energy. Their solutions are very flexible and practical.’
Key clients
Sovico Group JSC
Vietnam National Cement Corporation
Dong Bac Corporation
Urban Infrastructure Development Investment Corporation
Hacom Holdings Investment Joint Stock Company
Vietnam Staraniseed Cassia Manufacturing And Exporting Joint Stock Company
Seraphin Green Environment Technology Joint Stock Company
Amaccao Group Joint Stock Company
Hoanh Son Group Joint Stock Company
Phuthai Group Joint Stock Company
Vietjet Aviation Joint Stock Company
Everland Group Joint Stock Company
Phu Long Real Estates Corporation
Gamuda Land Joint Stock Company
CONASI Property Management And Development Joint Stock Company
Ha Noi Thien Y Environmental Energy Joint Stock Company
HSC Investment Corporation Joint Stock Company
HD Plaza Real Estate, Trading And Investment Limited Liability Company
Vina Dai Phuoc Corporation
Crystal Bay Joint Stock Company
Sunbay Ninh Thuan Joint Stock Company
Green Pack VN Co., Ltd
Quang Ninh Energy Joint Stock Company
An Khanh New City Development Joint Venture Company Limited
Thanh An Construction Joint Stock Company
Hong River Surface Water Joint Stock Company
Raymond Viet Nam Architect Design One Member Company Limited
Hacom Energy Joint Stock Company
Bemis Hong Kong Limited
Meiko Longcheer Electronics Vietnam Company Limited
Termo Vietnam Co., Ltd
The Pan Group Joint Stock Company
SCI Joint Stock Company
Vietnam Film Institute
Petrolimex Lam Dong Commercial and Services Joint- Stock
NK Investment & Construction Joint Stock Company
NK Plastic Technology And Environment Company Limited
Hoang Mai Media Corporation
Meey Land Group Joint Stock Company
Ho Chi Minh City Development Joint Stock Commercial Bank
Allen & Gledhill (Vietnam)
Allen & Gledhill (Vietnam) acts on a number of regional and cross-border projects in the energy and infrastructure sectors, including wind, solar and telecommunication matters. Wielding equal experience in both greenfield and brownfield ventures, the group leverages its multidisciplinary expertise to act on the whole life cycle of projects, including the financing, construction, and regulatory piece. Co-head Oh Hsiu-Hau is recommended for his corporate and M&A proficiency, while fellow co-head Jonathan Lin offers expertise regarding petrochemical enterprises, utility assets, and waste-treatment.
Practice head(s):
Oh Hsiu-Hau; Jonathan Lin
Work highlights
- Advised SP Group on the purchase of 100% of the shares in two project companies which operate two solar farms in Phu Yen Province, Vietnam.
- Advised Leader Energy Ventures Sdn. Bhd on its acquisition of 100% of the shares in Vinh Hao 6 Power Joint Stock Company, which operates a 50 MW Vinh Hao 6 Solar Power Plant in Binh Thuan Province, Vietnam from ACWA Power Vietnam Renewables Pte. Ltd., FECON Power Joint Stock Company and FECON Corporation.
Mayer Brown
With LNG work remaining the cornerstone of the practice at Mayer Brown, the firm stays abreast of market trends through strong engagement with renewable energy projects, including landmark financing of wind power developments, refinancing solar builds, and also notable work in the waste-to-energy space. David Harrison leads the group from Ho Chi Minh City and is well-versed in transactional, financing and development matters. Counsel Hai Thao Nguyen supports a significant proportion of the team’s mandates, primarily focusing on M&A, corporate and commercial matters. Benjamin Thompson and Nick Kouvaritakis are two experienced key names who provide advice from the Singapore office.
Practice head(s):
David Harrison; Ben Thompson; Nick Kouvaritakis
Other key lawyers:
Hai Thao Nguyen
Key clients
Asian Development Bank (ADB)
DEG
JICA
FMO
Chubu Electric
Work highlights
- Advised ADB, EFA and JICA on the project financing of the 144 MW Lotus wind farm in Quang Tri Province, Vietnam.
- Advised DEG on an innovative preference share investment in Gia Lai Electricity JSC.
- Advised DEG on the first financing of the Binh Duong Waste Management and Energy Efficiency Project and ADB and JICA on the second financing of the Binh Duong Waste Management and Energy Efficiency Project in Vietnam.
Rajah & Tann LCT Lawyers
Active on solar farm acquisitions, waste-to-energy development, and thermal power plant projects, Rajah & Tann LCT Lawyers has a strong understanding of the transaction and financing piece, as well as regulatory and compliance issues. Vu Thi Que heads the team and largely concentrates on renewable energy projects, particularly regarding M&A. Trinh Minh Duc also has an extensive M&A background and offers experience in the real estate and social infrastructure sphere.
Practice head(s):
Vu Thi Que
Other key lawyers:
Trinh Minh Duc; Logan Leung
Key clients
Powerchina
Maxihub Vietnam Limited
Tilleke & Gibbins
With an increased stream of mandates pertaining to solar and wind projects, Tilleke & Gibbins’s team regularly receives instructions from banks, financial institutions and contractors for their M&A, development and procurement needs. Head Tram Ngoc Bich Nguyen, who joined from YKVN in November 2022, is proficient across M&A, capital markets and financing, and leverages regulatory and compliance knowledge from extensive work in the construction and real estate markets. Former lead Vinh Quoc Nguyen retired from the practice in February 2023.
Practice head(s):
Tram Ngoc Bich Nguyen
Watson Farley & Williams LLP
Watson Farley & Williams LLP acts on a range of M&A and financing mandates for an impressive array of global energy players, regional public bodies, and financial institutions. Linh Doan overseas the practice from Hong Kong, regularly engaging cross-border power projects and demonstrating notable expertise in financing and investment work and possessing close ties to the Vietnamese government and related bodies. Matt Lorimer is based in the Hanoi office and is recommended for his project financing and syndicated loans work.
Practice head(s):
Linh Doan; Matt Lorimer
Other key lawyers:
Tram Nguyen; Dzung Vu
Testimonials
‘The team is highly responsive and brings a commercial and pragmatic approach to their work for lenders in the energy and projects space in Vietnam and broader Asia Pacific. The team has a very strong appreciation of the priorities of cross-border lenders in the region and offers good value for money.’
‘Matt Lorimer is highly recommended.’
‘The team is very responsive to clients’ need for legal advice and well equipped with the knowledge required.’
‘Linh Doan is able to provide spot-on solutions.’
Key clients
Ministry of Industry and Trade of Vietnam (MOIT)
Asian Development Bank (ADB)
Work highlights
- Advising EVN on the Monsoon wind energy project in Laos (600MW) and on a power purchase agreement which is the first of its kind for wind projects in Vietnam.
- Advising EDF Renewables on two significant wind energy projects in the province of Daklak, Vietnam, which includes advising on the development of two onshore wind projects Alpha (20MW) and Beta (50MW).
- Advising Iberdrola in relation to the acquisition of a 1,020MW onshore wind portfolio in Vietnam.