In addition to its 'deep knowledge of sanctions' and associated compliance work, Steptoe LLP is particularly well-versed in handling contentious trade defense matters. The team is capable of handling investigations and disputes before the WTO as well as before EU courts and has acted for governmental and corporate clients in proceedings regarding anti-dumping, import duty, and customs measures. Practice head Renato Antonini is a key contact for this line of work, while Eva Monard also advises on a growing number of regulatory matters in connection with export controls and ESG measures. Yongqing Bao maintains close relationships with a roster of China-based clients and advises across contentious and non-contentious trade matters.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘It is a team of experienced lawyers with passion. They are experienced with working with authorities. They understand very well the law and the practice of the authorities. Hard work and quick responsiveness are further good values of this team. ’

  • ‘Renato Antonini and Eva Monard have a good sense of business with the understanding on the customer's demand. They are good at the strategy and also know well the ground work.’

  • ‘Steptoe & Johnson LLP is reputable and professional.’

  • ‘Yongqing Bao is consistently our top choice for collaborating on international trade matters, as he consistently exceeds our expectations.’

  • ‘The different offices work in close collaboration, which is very helpful for an international group as ours, in which we have specific queries in different areas of law and in different jurisdictions.’

  • ‘I am assisted by Renato Antonini and Eva Monard for all trade/sanctions issues. They have been of invaluable help. Renato is very reactive and has an outstanding business approach.’

  • ‘They have deep knowledge of sanctions and always keep following the latest developments of rules and practices in this area.’

  • ‘Guy Soussan has deep knowledge and experience in the sanctions area. He also has flexibility and can come up with practical solutions.’

Key clients

  • Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China
  • Eviosys
  • China Rubber Industry Association
  • China Chamber of Commerce of Metals, Minerals & Chemicals Importers & Exporters
  • China Chamber of Commerce for Imports & Exports of Machinery & Electronics
  • Wego Chemical Group
  • Shanghai JA Solar PV Technology Co., Ltd.
  • Ansaldo Energia
  • International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas
  • Fincantieri
  • Kingdom of Cambodia
  • Cambodia Rice Federation
  • PT Indonesia Ruipu Nickel and Chrome Alloy
  • Liquidpower Specialty Products Inc

Work highlights

  • Successfully represented the Kingdom of Cambodia and Cambodia Rice Federation in its challenge of the GSP safeguards imposed by the EU Court of Justice of the European Union.
  • Assisted a major solar panel producer with EU customs issues and EU supply chain due diligence.
  • Assisted Liquidpower Specialty Products Inc with obtaining an amendment to the EU's Russia sanctions allowing for a derogation for the supply of its products.

Lawyers

Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Renato Antonini

Other key lawyers

Eva Monard, Guy Soussan, Yongqing Bao, Byron Maniatis