Noted for its participation in the ‘main hydrocarbon projects of the last 10 years, which have had a significant impact on the development of the industry in Ecuador’, ECIJA GPA fields a diverse team of specialised lawyers with expertise in oil and gas, mining and renewable energy matters. The group acts for domestic and international clients, most notably from China, in contractual matters, investments, projects and contentious issues. A key contact for oil and gas and mining heavyweights, Gonzalo González advises on the acquisition of assets throughout South America and on the execution of contracts. Another name to note for oil and gas clients, Bayardo Poveda is active in cross-border M&A, financing deals and public contracting. Other key individuals in the team include Álvaro Ordoñez, who oversees the mining practice, and Gustavo Arrobo, who focuses on hydrocarbons matters.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'They have a solid team, with expertise in all areas of law, which helps any query (corporate, labour, tax) to be resolved by their team.'

  • 'They have partners with very high experience, and knowledge of the country, and the sector, which helps foreign companies in the development of projects.'

  • 'The area of ​​energy and natural resources stands out as one of the firm's strongest practices. The department stands out in the country for having participated in the main hydrocarbon projects of the last 10 years, which have had a significant impact on the development of the industry in Ecuador. Our experience with the team over the years has consistently revealed an excellent level of service.'

  • 'ECIJA GPA is distinguished from other firms by its deep knowledge in various practice areas and its highly specialised team in regulated sectors, especially in the extractive industries. Their ability to develop appropriate strategies is remarkable. Gonzalo González, with decades of experience, offers proactive advice, standing out for his meticulous approach and incomparable knowledge in oil matters, in addition to his experience in public procurement and national and international arbitration. Bayardo Poveda has also stood out for his participation in addressing complex transactions.'

  • 'ECIJA GPA, has a team of professionals who are attentive to the client in their legal needs, they also have an update of the laws in force in the country, with constant changes in recent times. In the hydrocarbons area, they have full knowledge of the offers of investment that the country offers.'

  • 'Highly trained professionals, and knowledgeable about the hydrocarbon sector, in addition to the investment options that the country has.'

  • 'Recognised leadership in the oil industry. Proactivity in the management of critical issues for the industry.'

  • 'Few teams in Ecuador have more effective management of the procedures before public authorities necessary both in a context of mediation/negotiation prior to the start of an arbitration, and of execution/payment.'

Key clients

  • Karpowership
  • Pacifpetrol/petrobell
  • Celeo-elecnor
  • Condor Oil Services Consepetro
  • Enap Sipetrol
  • Petrobell / Grant Mining (Synergy Group) Petrogras Group Petrorsynergy

Work highlights

  • Advised KARPOWERSHIP on preparing for the qualification process for the concession of a 400MW natural gas plant initiated by the Ministry of Energy and Mines.
  • Advised Pacifpetrol /Petrobell on the challenging classification of companies that submitted economic bids for the TAMYA field.

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.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Gonzalo González, Bayardo Poveda Gustavo Arrobo, Alvaro Ordoñez