With an impressive recent record that includes advising on the successful bids for the first PPP projects in Panamanian history, Alfaro, Ferrer & Ramírez stands out for its expertise in public procurement, although its broad practice covers all aspects of project financing, construction contracts and regulatory issues associated with project development. The team has seen strong recent activity in the development of healthcare facilities, in addition to advising on major energy and transport infrastructure projects. At the head of the practice, Annette Bárcenas provides expertise in public procurement and project finance; Juan Antonio Alfaro has a particular focus on energy and port infrastructure; and Luis Horacio Moreno specialises in public procurement and PPPs. Associate Ramón Morales assists with public tenders and concessions contracts.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'It's clear that it is a team who collaborate a lot with each other. They are always available and it is noticeable how much time they dedicate to providing analysis on very complex issues, providing a fresh perspective.'
  • 'AFRA's lawyers are not only very well prepared in project and energy matters, but they stand out for being familiar with market practices, as well as the various interpretations of the regulations by the authorities. The advice we receive from AFRA is always very accurate, and its lawyers stand out for addressing our requirements quickly and effectively.'
  • 'Juan Antonio Alfaro is an excellent professional, with extensive knowledge of the projects and energy area, and the ability to handle complex matters satisfactorily for his clients. The advice we receive from Juan Antonio and his team is very precise and he makes clear recommendations. It is a pleasure to have Juan Antonio as our main adviser on matters in Panama.'
  • 'Expertise in the subject matter, a personalised service from the partners, competitive fees and great responsiveness.'

Key clients

  • Polaris Energy
  • Millicom-Tigo
  • PNE Energy
  • Grupo Residencial
  • Novo Nordisk
  • PSA International Terminal (PPIT)
  • Petroamerica Terminal (a VTTI company)
  • Vopak
  • Astillero Puerto de Balboa (Astibal)
  • Grupo Machetazo
  • Constructora Rigaservices
  • Promotora y Desarrolladora Mexicana de Infraestructura
  • Latinoamericana de Infraestructura
  • Invex Grupo Infraestructura
  • Ingeniería Estrella
  • Grupo HYC
  • Banistmo
  • Panama Digital Gateway
  • Trans Ocean Network
  • Telecom Italia Sparkle
  • Consorcio Línea Panama Norte
  • Damen Shipyards Gorinchem
  • Elevadores Otis
  • Administración y Supervisión De Obras Civiles
  • Tutum Tech
  • Civil y Logistica – Cimenta
  • Administradora de Proyectos de Construcción
  • Construction Management Group
  • Prodar
  • SN Power
  • Fountain Hydro Power
  • Hidro Burica
  • Proyectos Mar Azul
  • Monjasa Panama

Work highlights

  • Advised Consorcio Corredor del Istmo on its successful pre-qualification for the first PPP project in the history of Panama -  the improvement and maintenance of the Panamericana Este highway.
  • Advised Consorcio App Vías del Istmo on its successful pre-qualification for the second PPP project in the history of Panama - the improvement and maintenance of the Panamericana Oeste highway.
  • Advised Consorcio RI on its successful bid offer for the supply, assembly, commissioning and civil works for the Chepo 230 kV substation and the new Panama II-Bayano 230 kV transmission line.

Lawyers

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Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Annette Bárcenas, Juan Antonio Alfaro, Luis Horatio Moreno