Akin

Akin‘s international trade practice is often engaged on the negotiation of transactions affected by sanctions, as well as issues relating to compliance, investigations and enforcement matters. Practice co-chair Jasper Helder – ’an absolute authority in his domain” – is a key contact for UK, EU and US trade compliance matters involving enforcement actions and other regulatory scrutiny. Fellow practice co-chair Chiara Klaui – regarded by one client as ‘truly outstanding’ – regularly advises EU, UK and Swiss clients on trade compliance. In September 2024, the team was strengthened by the arrival of Ross Denton, highly experienced in international trade compliance.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

‘Very knowledgeable, pragmatic and client-focused. Great understanding of the industries in which clients operate in order to tailor advice to that required for a specific issue/opportunity. Robust coverage of a range of jurisdictions using a one-stop shop principle.’
‘Excellent knowledge in sanctions and export controls, very quick and practical advice. Very reasonable approach to risks.’
‘We have been working with Chiara Klaui for several years on EU and UK sanctions and export controls. She is truly outstanding. The advice is always straight to the point and practical. She explains everything so clearly making it easy to implement. Often we get instant advice, unlike from some competitors that first need to discuss internally, research, etc. Chiara is truly one of the best professionals in the sanctions area.'
'Jasper Helder provides very clear advice and has a good balance in terms of risks. He is one of the most experienced lawyers in the field. ’
‘We have worked with Jasper Helder, an absolute authority in his domain. Jasper is a fast and creative thinker who does not shy away to get into the practical side of things. His assistance was crucial in navigating one of the most complex cases our company has dealt with in the past decade.’
‘Jasper Helder is an absolute expert on sanctions and FDI matters. ’

Key clients

VEON
Nexperia
Ad hoc Group of Ozon bondholders
ExxonMobil
COFCO
Intel Corporation
Juniper Networks
Nike
Royal Boskalis Westminster N.V.
Van Oord Dredging and Marine Contractors
The Coca Cola Company
ARM
UPS
Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited

Work highlights

Advising VEON on a debt restructuring involving many Russian (sanctioned) debt holders in order to enable a divestment of its Russian subsidiary.
Assisting Japan Tobacco International with global sanctions and trade compliance counsel.
Assisting Fortenova with an innovative financial restructuring of a debt portfolio including Russian banks under EU, UK and US sanctions.