Firms To Watch: Trade remedies and trade policy

National firm Husch Blackwell LLP houses a growing trade remedies practice, which added six new clients over the past year. Senior counsel Jeffrey Neeley steers a team that is particularly noted for its expertise in matters related to China, India, and East Asia.
In January 2023, Polsinelli PC received a significant boost to its international trade offering with the hire of a seven-strong team from AMS Trade. The group includes former AMS managing partner, and Section 337 and trade remedies expert, Deanna Tanner Okun.

Trade remedies and trade policy in United States

Akin

International trade powerhouse Akin fields one of the most comprehensive practices in the market. Equally adept at representing companies, industries, and foreign governments, the Washington DC-based group combines strong skill sets in trade policy and trade remedies with an extensive global footprint that takes in platforms in key trade centers in Asia, Europe and the Middle East. The group is commended for possessing ‘the manpower to tackle larger cases’, recently evidenced by Matthew Nicely‘s representation of HMTX Industries, and more than 100 additional plaintiffs, in a major challenge to the US government’s Section 301 tariffs on Chinese goods—among the largest group of related cases ever brought before the US Court of International Trade (CIT). Stephen Kho fronts the trade policy team and is advising the Consumer Technology Association on trade policy issues impacting the consumer electronics industry, including Section 301 tariffs in multiple jurisdictions and laws affecting supply chain management. The deep bench also draws on Bernd Janzen, who acts for US and foreign clients across a range of trade litigation matters, up-and-coming trade litigator Yujin Kim McNamara, and Hal Shapiro a former Senior Advisor for International Economic Policy at the National Economic Council.


Practice head(s):

Thomas McCarthy


Other key lawyers:

Bernd Janzen; Yujin Kim McNamara; Hal Shapiro; Stephen Kho; Matthew Nicely


Testimonials

‘Each member of the team is willing to gain in-depth knowledge of complex subject matter in order to best represent their client.’

‘They are very good at assigning associates to aspects of the file that correspond best with their strengths. They are very good at ensuring continuity on long-term files.’

Matthew Nicely’s team at Akin Gump has the manpower to tackle larger cases.’

Key clients

Consumer Technology Association (CTA)


Government of British Columbia


HMTX Industries LLC


Government of Korea, Ministry of Trade Industry & Economy


Sumitomo Rubber Industries Ltd.


Government of Japan, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry


Eastman Chemical Company


Business Roundtable (BRT)


Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA)


Electrolux North America, Inc.


Nextera Energy Inc.


Deloitte Touche Tohamatsu Limited


OFilm Group Co. Ltd.


Work highlights


  • Represented HMTX Industries and more than 100 additional plaintiffs in challenging the US government’s Section 301 tariffs on Chinese goods—among the largest group of related cases ever brought before the CIT.
  • Advised the Solar Energy Industries Association on all ongoing administrative and court litigation involving safeguard measures and antidumping and countervailing duties on crystalline silicon photovoltaic cells and panels.
  • Assisted O-Film with the successful removal of its subsidiary (Nanchang O-Film Tech) from the Bureau of Industry and Security’s Entity List.

Hogan Lovells US LLP

Widely regarded as a destination practice for trade disputes and policy matters, Hogan Lovells US LLP is noted for its ability to provide ‘strong legal counsel but also strategic advice’. The group routinely links up with its international offices to offer capability across an array of Europe, Asia, Latin America and UK-related issues, with notable expertise in handling matters relating to trade with China, particularly Section 201 and 301 cases. In a recent example of its involvement in headline-grabbing work, department co-chair Deen Kaplan paired up with Kelly Ann Shaw to score a major win for Ukraine-based Interpipe, when the Department of Commerce (DOC) announced that it was removing all Section 232 duties assessed against Ukrainian steel for at least a year, overturning a 2018 decision implemented by the Trump administration. In another major win, Craig Lewis acted alongside Kaplan to successfully represent Brazilian millwork exporter Araupel in obtaining a DOC determination that imports of wood mouldings and millwork products from Brazil should not be subject to antidumping duties. The Washington DC-based group also includes ‘innovative thinkerJonathan Stoel, senior counsel and trade policy specialist Warren Maruyama and Jared Wessel, who has strong experience in matters at the intersection of trade and labor rights. Additionally, senior associate Maria Arboleda is highlighted as an ‘exceptional lawyer in trade defense instruments’.


Practice head(s):

Deen Kaplan


Other key lawyers:

Craig Lewis; Jonathan Stoel; Warren Maruyama; Jared Wessel; Kelly Ann Shaw; Maria Arboleda; Michael Jacobson; Patrick de Lapérouse


Testimonials

‘Hogan Lovells has an excellent international trade team. Its strengths are its highly technical knowledge, the efficiency and speed with which it attends to each inquiry, and its ability to identify the specific needs of clients.’

‘Lawyers have very good relationships with, and knowledge of, the different government agencies, which facilitates communication channels.’

‘Excellent understanding of both public and private sector perspectives coupled with expertise across numerous practice areas. The team’s ability to tailor correspondence and briefings to the relevant decision-maker ensures client service excellence.’

‘The trade team has been exceptional both in providing strong legal counsel but also strategic advice. Deen Kaplan, Jonathan Stoel, Maria Arboleda and Patrick de Lapérouse are our legal advisors and are strong advocates.’

‘Jonathan Stoel is an excellent trade lawyer. Very experienced and Washington savvy. He is also an innovative thinker.’

‘Maria Arboleda is an exceptional lawyer in trade defense instruments (countervailing duties), with knowledge not only of the US legal system, but also with an excellent understanding of different laws in Latin America. Maria is extremely efficient and always committed to obtaining the best result.’

Key clients

Araupel S.A.


Interpipe


Cardone


MacroSource (formerly Gavilon Fertilizer)


Government of Ontario


Government of Canada; Canadian Solar; Heliene; Silfab Solar


Nestlé Waters North America (NWNA)


Companhia Siderurgical Nacional (CSN)


Valbruna Slater Steel


Kinder Morgan


Work highlights


  • Secured a victory for Interpipe, the largest pipe manufacturer in Ukraine, when the DOC announced that it was removing ​all Section 232 duties assessed against Ukrainian steel for at least a year.
  • Scored a win for the Government of Canada (and solar industry clients Canadian Solar, Heliene, and Silfab Solar), when the US and Canada reached an agreement to drop safeguard tariffs on Canadian solar panel parts.
  • Represented Philadelphia-based Cardone, and its Mexican subsidiary, Tridonex, before several US Government agencies in its response to the Rapid Response Labor Mechanism petition filed pursuant to the USMCA.

Steptoe LLP

Clients highlight Steptoe LLP’s ‘unequaled depth of lawyers with vast experience in handling international trade issues’. A longstanding titan on the trade litigation and policy stage, the group is widely recognized for its pioneering experience in World Trade Organization (WTO) disputes and other complex matters. It also stands out for its comprehensive client roster, which includes both domestic and foreign industry. Among its recent highlights, Thomas Trendl (‘the master of trade remedies and related barriers’) represented a mandatory respondent from Vietnam in antidumping proceedings concerning passenger vehicle light tires from Vietnam, Taiwan, and Thailand, achieving a zero-dumping margin. In another significant win, Eric Emerson successfully obtained a final negative injury determination from the International Trade Commission (ITC) for Methanol Holdings (Trinidad) in antidumping and countervailing duty investigations. Next-generation partner Amy Lentz stands out for her ‘full command of the facts and law’; she is representing the Canadian softwood lumber industry in the long-running dispute with the US over imports of lumber from Canada, including advising on proceedings before the DOC and multiple simultaneous appeals under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The group also draws on Matthew Yeo, who is highly regarded for his record in WTO dispute settlement proceedings, and Jeffrey Weiss, who co-chairs the international trade policy practice alongside Susan Esserman.


Other key lawyers:

Matthew Yeo; Amy Lentz; Jeffrey Weiss; Susan Esserman; Thomas Trendl; Eric Emerson


Testimonials

‘Steptoe has an unequaled depth of lawyers with vast experience in handling international trade issues both great and small at all levels of the US government, and also other governments, WTO and FTAs, and within the most important trading countries around the world.’

‘Steptoe has one of oldest and widest trade practices in the world on both import issues and financial sanctions, export controls, data protection, investment controls, and the wide range of issues arising from US tensions with China, Iran and others.’

‘They have an excellent international trade team. We have worked with many of their international trade team, and they are always very practical, responsive and try to find a solution.’

Key clients

A global logistics company


Kenda Taiwan, Kenda Vietnam, American Kenda Rubber Industrial Co


Methanol Holdings (Trinidad) Ltd. and the Government of the Republic of Trinidad & Tobago


British Columbia Lumber Trade Council


Westlake Chemical Corporation


Tata Steel (Tata Steel Ijmuiden & Tata Steel Europe)


Bluestar Adisseo


Centrus Energy Corporation


Work highlights


  • Guided a global logistics company through a US government-led investigation, helping to implement effective remedial measures and rolling out an enhanced compliance program.
  • Successfully represented Kenda Tires in obtaining a zero percent dumping margin in antidumping proceedings concerning passenger vehicle light tires from Vietnam, Taiwan, and Thailand.
  • Obtained a final negative injury determination from the ITC on behalf of Methanol Holdings (Trinidad) in antidumping and countervailing duty investigations.

White & Case LLP

Among White & Case LLP’s key attributes, clients highlight its ‘depth of knowledge and experience across complex antidumping and countervailing duties issues’. Alongside its premier trade remedies practice—which is routinely involved in major trade investigations on behalf of producers, importers and governments—the team also houses formidable trade policy and WTO offerings. The steel industry remains a significant sweet spot for the group; among its work in this sphere, high-profile trade litigator, Gregory Spak, is representing steel producer Gerdau Metaldom in a WTO dispute concerning the Dominican Republic’s antidumping measures on corrugated steel bar imports from Costa Rica. Global international trade head David Bond is also highly sought after for trade remedy disputes and trade policy matters; he is representing Sylvamo, a paper mill company, in a review of the antidumping duty order on uncoated paper from Brazil. Other key contacts in the Washington DC-based team include Jay Campbell, who is representing Marmen in proceedings related to antidumping and countervailing duties on utility scale wind towers from Canada, and senior associate Ron Kendler, who has a ‘unique ability to explain complex concepts clearly’.

Practice head(s):

David Bond


Other key lawyers:

Gregory Spak; Jay Campbell; Ron Kendler; Alex Dilley


Testimonials

‘The breadth and depth of knowledge and experience across complex antidumping and countervailing duties issues sets W&C apart from other firms with whom we have worked. The immediate working team is supported by topic experts that are as attentive and responsive as the working team.’

‘You can get international trade legal advice, high level advocacy, knowledge of sector and practices and economists in one team. They also provide excellent guidance and education to clients who are new to international trade investigations.’

‘David Bond and his team are outstanding, they provide great insights and a thoughtful approach to issues arising in the international trade space.’

The whole team (Gregory Spak, Jay Campbell and associates Ron Kendler and Alex Dilley) has done a phenomenal job of representing an industry group with constituents that are competitors and also have different end goals.’

‘When working with Ron Kendler, you feel like you are getting the knowledge of a partner and the attentiveness of an associate. He has a unique ability to explain complex concepts clearly with as little words as possible.’

‘The international trade team is impeccable. They are analytical, meticulous. David Bond leads the team and he is incredibly intelligent and straight to the point.’

‘They are fully hands-on, build a team from their end that include specialists in all required fields, are very flexible and versatile, knowledgeable of their respective fields, and extremely hard working. They have showed a very high commitment with our needs.’

‘They are very receptive, pay a lot of attention to detail, and are always available to guide and support the team, at levels that you not always see in other providers. I would mention Gregory Spak as a stand-out partner.’

Key clients

PJSC Tatneft


Sylvamo


Tenaris


Synthos Kralupy


NEXEN TIRE Corporation


Gerdau Metaldom


Scotch Whisky Association


Kumho Petrochemical Co., Ltd.


Dongkuk Steel Mill Co., Ltd.


Productos Laminados de Monterrey and its affiliated US distributor (Prolamsa)


Merck & Co.


Sahamitr Pressure Container Plc. (SMPC)


Marmen, Inc., Marmen Énergie Inc., and Marmen Energy Co. (collectively, Marmen)


Louis Dreyfus Company Sucos S.A


Petróleos de Venezuela, S.A (PDVSA)


National Bank of Pakistan


Work highlights


  • Representing Tenaris in several US trade proceedings relating to oil country tubular goods, welded line pipe, and seamless pipe, involving imports from ten countries.
  • Representing Gerdau Metaldom in a WTO dispute concerning the Dominican Republic’s antidumping measures on corrugated steel bar imports from Costa Rica.
  • Representing Petróleos de Venezuela, the Venezuelan state-owned oil and natural gas company, in litigation regarding hundreds of millions of dollars of OFAC-blocked assets.

Cassidy Levy Kent (USA) LLP

International trade boutique Cassidy Levy Kent (USA) LLP is praised by satisfied clients as a ‘go-to US outside counsel for antidumping and countervailing duty matters’. Working closely with its Ottawa office, the Washington DC-based team specializes in providing full-service support to US and Canadian clients on trade remedies, trade policy and market access issues. High-profile trade specialist Jack Levy has experience in litigating before the ITC, DOC and CIT, as well as NAFTA panels and the WTO; he successfully represented Whirlpool in a five-year sunset review, which extended the antidumping order of large residential washers from China. In an example of the team’s work for US industries abroad, James Cannon successfully represented OxyChem in Brazil’s antidumping investigation against imports of liquid caustic soda from the US. The deep bench also draws on Yohai Baisburd, whose practice focuses on trade remedies and customs issues, and Myles Getlan, who spearheads the firm’s representation of the US biodiesel industry. Up-and-coming partner Thomas Beline and talented counsel Sarah Shulman are also names to note.


Other key lawyers:

Jack Levy; James Cannon; Yohai Baisburd; Myles Getlan; Thomas Beline; Sarah Shulman; Mary Jane Alves; Jonathan Zielinski; James Ransdell; Robert Cassidy Jr


Testimonials

‘CLK is our go-to US outside counsel for antidumping and countervailing duty matters. Over the years they have gained significant understanding of our industry and priorities. They are particularly effective on new antidumping duty/countervailing duty cases at DOC and new cases and sunset reviews at ITC.’

‘Thomas Beline leads our AD/CVD work at CLK. He has significant experience with, and success for, us. He is good at crafting engagements and work streams based on our specific needs, as well as doing a good job managing his team and delegating work where appropriate.’

Key clients

U.S. Mattress Industry


U.S. Biodiesel Industry


U.S. Sugar Industry


American HFC Coalition – Chemours, Arkema, Honeywell, Mexichem


Florida Tomato Exchange


United States Steel Corp


Whirlpool Corporation


Thomas Steel Strip Corp


Chemtrade


Occidental Chemical


Work highlights


  • Representing coalitions of US sugar, biodiesel, tomatoes, mattresses, copper tube, and refrigerants producers in trade remedies litigation.
  • Acting for US producer Chemtrade in prosecuting antidumping and countervailing duty petitions against imports of sodium nitrite from India and Russia.
  • Representing US Steel in five-year sunset reviews on imported flat steel products from various countries.

Kelley Drye & Warren LLP

Trade remedy litigation is a mainstay at Kelley Drye & Warren LLP and the group maintains one of the highest success rates in trade remedies cases before the DOC and ITC. Alongside its thriving remedies practice, the group advises on trade policy developments and also frequently handles complex appellate matters before the CIT and the Federal Circuit. A go-to specialist for petitioners, Paul Rosenthal brings to bear over 40 years of experience in advising domestic industries in antidumping and countervailing duty cases; he successfully represented domestic producers in upholding the existing antidumping duty order on imports of PET resin from Canada, China, India, and Oman. Kathleen Cannon is also highly regarded for trade remedy actions and recently filed a request with the DOC to initiate a circumvention case based on a novel argument involving ‘minor alterations’ of a product in a third country. Other key contacts in the the Washington DC-based team include international trade department chair John Herrmann, Washington DC office managing partner Alan Luberda and Brooke Ringel, who specializes in trade remedies.

Practice head(s):

John Herrmann


Other key lawyers:

Paul Rosenthal; Kathleen Cannon; Alan Luberda; Brooke Ringel


Testimonials

‘Extensive experience in a wide array of trade agencies. Great personalities!’

‘Everyone is so kind.’

Key clients

ArcelorMittal USA


The Aluminum Association


Unifi Manufacturing


Nan-Ya Plastics, America


National Wire


Insteel Wire


Sioux Honey Association


DAK Americas


Multi-Plastics Extrusions Inc.


Worthington Industries


Work highlights


  • Won a landmark trade remedy case on behalf of the US Aluminum Association, securing a final unanimous affirmative determination on aluminum sheet from 18 countries.
  • Won a trade remedy matter on behalf of US manufacturers of prestressed concrete steel wire strand, in a case filed against 15 countries.
  • Secured trade remedy relief for US manufacturers of metal lockers to stop imports of metal lockers from China.

King & Spalding LLP

King & Spalding LLP finds favor for its lawyers’ ‘knowledge, innovative thinking and preparation for cases’. The firm’s trade litigation offering forms a key part of its full-service international trade practice and it possesses extensive experience in the full scope of trade remedies, trade policy, WTO matters and related regulatory work. Stephen Orava chairs the Washington DC-based team and has a focus on trade remedies, WTO dispute settlement proceedings and climate change-related trade issues. Orava recently represented an ad hoc coalition of American superabsorbent polymer producers in filing petitions at the DOC and ITC seeking antidumping relief against superabsorbent polymer imports from South Korea. A former General Counsel of USTR, Stephen Vaughn is notably spearheading the firm’s representation of Cleveland-Cliffs in five-year reviews of antidumping and countervailing duty orders on imports of corrosion-resistant steel, cold-rolled steel and hot-rolled steel. Other key contacts include Michael Taylor, whose practice spans customs and trade remedy-related matters, senior counsel Neal Reynolds, and Jamieson Greer, who maintains a broad trade practice with a focus on trade remedies and trade policy and negotiations.

Practice head(s):

Stephen Orava


Other key lawyers:

Stephen Vaughn; Michael Taylor; Jamieson Greer; Neal Reynolds; Daniel Schneiderman


Testimonials

King & Spalding supported us in a trade remedy case, providing technical and legal assistance and guiding the international participants through the whole procedure including several hearings with ITC.’

The team provides clear guidance and clear communication, particularly Jamieson Greer, Stephen Orava and Neal Reynolds.’

King and Spalding has the best team in the practice of international trade. We have seen the results over many years of engaging K&S to represent us in the ITC. There are no other firms that prepare better for their cases.’

King and Spalding excel in all areas of international trade disputes.’

Their knowledge, innovative thinking and preparation for cases are significantly better than any other firm that has represented the opposite side. Daniel Schneiderman, and Michael Taylor are exceptional individuals.’

Key clients

Ad Hoc Coalition of American Super Absorbent Polymer Producers (coalition of BASF Corp., Evonik Superabsorber LLC, and Nippon Shokubai America Industries)


AMG Vanadium


Briggs & Stratton LLC


CalCIMA (California Construction and Industrial Materials Association)


Coalition for Sustainable Cement Manufacturing and Environment (“CSCME”)


Cleveland-Cliffs Inc.


Committee for Fair Trade in Ammonium Sulfate, including AdvanSix (formerly Honeywell Resins & Chemicals) and PCI Nitrogen


Domtar Corporation


The Dow Chemical Company


Iowa Fertilizer Company


J.R. Simplot Company


Novelis Corp., Hindalco Industries Ltd. (and affiliates)


Novolex


Olin Corporation and affiliates


United Parcel Service


US Magnesium LLC


U.S. Producers of Citric Acid (coalition of Archer Daniels Midland, Cargill, and Primient)


Vaughan-Bassett Furniture Company


Wincom, Inc.


Washington Red Raspberry Commission


Work highlights


  • Successfully represented Cleveland-Cliffs following the ITC’s unanimous vote to continue antidumping and countervailing duty orders on corrosion-resistant steel from five countries and on cold-rolled steel from five of six countries, respectively.
  • Successfully represented Domtar and Finch Paper in reviews at the DOC and the ITC concerning imports of uncoated paper.
  • Advised Olin Corporation and its affiliates in the Brazilian antidumping investigation regarding imports of caustic soda from the US.

Wiley Rein LLP

The full-service practice at Wiley Rein LLP leverages standalone strength in trade matters with complementary expertise in political law to position itself as a key advisor to major US industrial interests. A petitioner-side powerhouse, the team has a strong record in China-related cases, including at the WTO, while it also stands out for its expertise in key US industries, including steel and energy. Alan Price co-chairs the international trade practice and is recommended for his experience in trade litigation involving public and government relations issues; he paired up with Christopher Weld to successfully represent Nucor in multiple sunset reviews of antidumping and countervailing duty orders. Co-chair Timothy Brightbill is widely recognized for his impressive record in pioneering trade remedies matters; among his recent work, he acted alongside Laura El-Sabaawi to successfully represent the Coalition of American Manufacturers of Mobile Access Equipment in an antidumping investigation into imports of mobile access equipment from China. The group also draws on the experience of trade remedies specialist Robert DeFrancesco, as well as next-generation partners Stephanie Bell and Derick Holt.

Practice head(s):

Alan Price; Timothy Brightbill


Other key lawyers:

Christopher Weld; Laura El-Sabaawi; Robert DeFrancesco; Stephanie Bell; Derick Holt; Adam Teslik; Theodore Brackemyre


Testimonials

‘The team has broad experience across a number of international trade disciplines that, together, provide enormous advantage to clients.’

‘Advancing client interests in the trade arena requires not just in-depth knowledge of traditional trade approaches, which the Wiley team has, but the ability to develop innovative solutions. The Wiley team has the best track record in Washington on such matters.’

The team is personable, responsive, knowledgeable, prompt, practical, and highly effective. And lawyers communicate well with the client, as well as with each other.’

Key clients

Nucor


Kohler Co.


Coalition of American Manufacturers of Mobile Access Equipment


American Alliance for Solar Manufacturing


AISI and SMA


Coalition of American Chassis Manufacturers


Century Aluminum


Aluminum Extrusions


Wind Tower Coalition


Rebar Trade Action Coalition (RTAC)


Fortune Brands


Coalition of American Millwork Producers


American Wire Rod Producers


Coalition for Fair Trade of Hardwood Plywood


Catfish Farmers of America


American Line Pipe Producers Association (ALPPA)


Work highlights


  • Filed three sets of petitions that led US authorities to initiate investigations into whether wind towers from abroad are being dumped in the US.
  • Secured a victory for the Coalition of American Manufacturers of Mobile Access Equipment in an antidumping investigation into imports of mobile access equipment from China.
  • Successfully represented US producers of aluminum extrusions, following the ITC’s decision to extend relief from imports of aluminum extrusions from China.

ArentFox Schiff

ArentFox Schiff’s practice stands out for its ‘skills, competence, experience and pragmatic approach’. Trade litigation is a significant sweet spot for the international trade group, with strong recent showings in antidumping cases, safeguard investigations, arbitral disputes and international dispute settlement. The team is particularly noted for its extensive experience in Canada-related matters, where seasoned counsel Matthew Clark is representing the Government of Québec in countervailing duty petitions targeting softwood lumber from Canada. Trade specialist, and former department head, Matthew Nolan also represents companies and governments in dispute proceedings, with niche expertise in Canada and Mexico-related work. The group additionally draws on John Gurley, who has a focus on trade relief proceedings, with a prominent record in matters involving imports from Mexico.

Other key lawyers:

Matthew Clark; Matthew Nolan; John Gurley


Testimonials

‘It’s not just about the results, which have been excellent, it’s also about excellent communication, availability, and offering a respectful and reassuring environment, even in the middle of a long and difficult file. The team works seamlessly with us, and shares our values of diligence and respect.’

‘Skills, competence, experience and pragmatic approach make this practice extremely valuable. Responses are always very quick and satisfactory, evidencing a deep industry knowledge by the professionals of the team. The most critical problems are quickly identified.’

Key clients

Government of Québec


Crown Holdings, Flight Safety, Kingston Technology, and many others


Dover Corporation


AeroVironment, Inc.


American Apparel & Footwear Association; National Retail Federation; Retail Industry Leaders Association; United States Fashion Industry Association AND Forced labor guidance


Lyman Steel Company


ONE Our Next Energy


Crown Cork & Seal


Work highlights


  • Representing the Government of Québec in the countervailing duty investigation into uncoated groundwood paper from Canada.
  • Representing foreign producers in multiple pending antidumping and countervailing duty investigations and reviews, including softwood lumber from Canada, fabricated structural steel from Canada and Mexico, and others.

Arnold & Porter

Regulatory powerhouse Arnold & Porter possesses an effective trade litigation offering, which is particularly prominent in representing foreign governments and industry; reflecting the wider firm’s formidable sovereign state practice. On the trade remedy front, department chair David Park acted for Hyundai Steel Company in 15 trade related proceedings over the past year, including eight separate proceedings before the DOC. Park splits his practice between Washington DC and Seoul and is particularly noted for his involvement in Asia-related cases. Among the team’s recent work for sovereigns, Lynn Fischer Fox—a former Deputy Assistant Secretary with DOC—is advising the Province of Alberta as respondent in the US countervailing duty case concerning imports of softwood lumber from Canada. In another significant sovereign-side matter, senior counsel Claire Reade is leading the team’s ongoing representation of the Government of Israel on international trade matters, including advice on US laws and regulations.


Practice head(s):

David Park


Other key lawyers:

Lynn Fischer Fox; Claire Reade


Key clients

Government of Israel


Province of Alberta, Canada


Hyosung Heavy Industries Corporation


Hansol Paper Company and Hansol America, Inc.


Tolko Industries Ltd.


Zinus Inc. and PT. Zinus Global Indonesia


Nexteel Co., Ltd.


Toray Advanced Materials Korea, Inc.


Hyundai Steel Company


SKF/Peer Bearing Corporation


LG Chem


Work highlights


  • Represented Hyundai Steel Company in 15 trade-related proceedings, including eight separate proceedings before the DOC and five separate proceedings before the CIT.
  • Represented POSCO, and its affiliates POSCO VST and POSCO Vietnam Processing Center, in seven separate proceedings before the DOC.
  • Successfully represented Nexteel in the CIT appeals of the second antidumping review of oil country tubular goods from Korea and the first antidumping review of line pipe from Korea, among other matters.

Curtis, Mallet-Prevost, Colt & Mosle LLP

Lawyers at Curtis, Mallet-Prevost, Colt & Mosle LLP ‘explore every avenue to obtain positive results’, according to clients. The international-facing team, which draws on several partners who split their practice between two or more country offices, worked with exporters from 11 different nations over the past year. Alongside its extensive global reach, the group is distinguished by its representation of both corporate and sovereign clients. ‘Gifted trade lawyer’ and department chair Daniel Porter operates from Washington DC, Geneva and Beijing; he recently represented Australia’s BlueScope in multiple different trade law projects, including defending BlueScope’s interests in a sunset review before the ITC. Matthew McCullough divides his time between DC and Geneva and is held up by one source as ‘likely the top countervailing duty and subsidy rule lawyer in the DC trade bar’; he represented the Spanish table olive industry association, ASEMESA, in various trade remedies cases. The team also benefits from the experience of seasoned trade litigator James Durling, who splits his practice between DC and Geneva.

Practice head(s):

Daniel Porter


Other key lawyers:

Matthew McCullough; James Durling; Christopher Dunn


Testimonials

‘Experienced and creative practitioners that explore every avenue to obtain positive results. They know the details behind agency calculations and are effective at finding winning strategies.’

Curtis has a very deep and experienced trade regulatory practice. They are strong in all aspects and are regular practitioners in the hearing rooms and courtrooms of the DOC, the ITC, USTR and the CIT.

Daniel Porter is an extremely experienced and gifted trade lawyer. He also recognizes the need to let business strategy take first priority.

Key clients

LG Electronics


Association of Exporters and Industry Table Olives (ASEMESA)


Toyo Kohan


BlueScope Ltd


OCTAL SAOZ FZC (formerly Octal Holding SAOC)


Novelis Deutshland Gmbh


Silgan Containers


Shelter Forest


Government of the Sultanate of Oman


Ulma Forja, S. Coop


CMA LLC


LG Chem, Ltd


Saha Thai Steel Pipe Company


Work highlights


  • Successfully represented Shelter Forest in appealing a DOC circumvention determination to the CIT.
  • Advised Spanish exporter Ulma Forja on reducing its import tariff duty rate in order to continue exports to the US market.
  • Successfully represented the Government of the Sultanate of Oman in countervailing duty cases involving aluminum foil and nails.

Mayer Brown

With ‘strong capability and insight in the trade area’, Mayer Brown houses a truly global practice, which is co-led from Washington DC, London and Brussels. On the trade remedies front, the Washington DC-based group represents both petitioners and respondents across the full range of issues, including antidumping cases, safeguard actions and Section 232 matters. The team also houses an active trade policy practice, which has considerable experience in appearing before various bilateral, regional and multilateral institutions, including the WTO. Duane Layton, who stepped down as international trade head in January 2023, is noted for his expertise in international dispute settlement; he also handles trade remedies. Matthew McConkey now leads the trade remedies and policy practice; he is representing US Steel Corporation in the Section 232 investigation on imported steel. The team also draws on Sydney Mintzer, who handles a mix of customs and trade remedies litigation, and Jing Zhang, who splits her practice between Washington DC and Beijing and is well versed across a range of trade matters, including antidumping and anti-subsidy cases.

Practice head(s):

Matthew McConkey; Sydney Mintzer


Other key lawyers:

Duane Layton; Jing Zhang; Warren Payne


Testimonials

‘We value the group for its depth of knowledge and professionalism.’

‘The team, located in Washington D.C., has strong capability and insight in the trade area, through their long and broad experience, sufficient knowledge and deep connection with the authorities, which make their performance exceptional.’

‘Certain members of Mayer Brown’s trade group have very unique skills, contacts, and perspectives on trade policy advocacy. Mayer Brown also offers a full range of legal services globally.

‘Warren Payne has very unique skills and contacts for trade policy advocacy. Timothy Keeler has unique skills and perspective on trade policy advocacy.’

‘Matthew McConkey has done a good job of managing our Section 232 exclusion process work.’

Key clients

Cognizant


Various (Russia Wind-Down and Divestment Engagements – SWIFT, Dow Chemical, General Motors, DXC, Schneider SA, Deloitte Touch Tohmatsu Limited)


RTI


Aluminum Extruders Council


Island Industries


Arkema Inc.


Halopolymer OJSC


Southwire Company


California Manufacturing and Engineering Co.


Acron USA Inc.


Weldbend Corporation


U.S. Steel Corporation


Ocean Spray Cranberries, Inc.


Century Synthetic Fiber Corporation


RHF Stone Sdn Bdh


Work highlights


  • Representing US Steel Corporation in the US 232 (national security investigation) on imported steel, as well as the China 301 tariffs.
  • Representing Island Industries in three separate scope proceedings being conducted by the DOC with respect to circumvention of the US antidumping order against butt-weld pipe fittings from China.
  • Advising some of the largest companies in the world on strategic issues across the US, EU, UK and other jurisdictions following the Russia invasion.

McDermott Will & Emery LLP

The ‘very deep and experienced’ group at McDermott Will & Emery LLP handles a broad mix of trade remedy and policy issues, with strong skill sets in countervailing duty and antidumping proceedings, WTO and NAFTA dispute settlement, and trade negotiations. Increasingly sought after by sovereign clients, the Washington DC-based team has recently assisted the UK Government with various trade negotiations, including UK-Mexico, UK-CPTPP and others. It also continues to represent the Government of Canada in the ongoing dispute with the US over US imports of softwood lumber from Canada. Carolyn Gleason co-heads the practice and is acting for Musco Family Olive Co in several trade proceedings involving US olive imports from Spain. Other key contacts include counsels Raymond Paretzky and David Levine, both of whom handle a range of import relief, customs, export controls and trade sanctions matters. Counsel Timothy Hruby recently joined the DOC, and in May 2023 a team around former department co-chair Joanne Osendarp, Eric Parnes and Alan Kashdan also left the firm.

Practice head(s):

Carolyn Gleason


Other key lawyers:

Raymond Paretzky; David Levine


Testimonials

‘MWE is an office that is committed to the work entrusted to it. Lawyers are very professional and efficient.’

‘With the MWE team, it is possible to achieve results and get answers quickly and efficiently, that is the most valuable thing. They understand the speed required and respond to it assertively.’

‘The international trade team is very deep and experienced.’

Key clients

Asocaña – Sugar Cane Growers Association of Colombia


California Cling Peach Advisory Board


Chiquita Brands


CHS


CJ CheilJedang Corporation


Coalition for Fair Trade in Ripe Olives


Dredging Contractors of America


Export Development Canada (EDC)


Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association


Government of Canada


Government of Mexico


Illinois Tool Works


Musco Family Olive Co.


Work highlights


  • Represented the Government of Canada in the ongoing dispute between the US and Canada over US imports of softwood lumber from Canada.
  • Advised Export Development Canada on general international trade matters.
  • Represented Musco Family Olive Co in several antidumping, countervailing duty, CIT, WTO, and Section 129 proceedings involving US olive imports from Spain.

Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP

A well-oiled machine’, Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP’s international trade practice receives rave reviews for its collaborative approach. The group’s broad experience is also frequently noted; as one client asserts, ‘there is nothing that this team has not seen or experienced through its portfolio’. The wider firm’s impressive defense offering is a significant source of mandates here, particularly the aerospace sphere, while it also handles a steady stream of work on behalf of energy, technology and sovereign clients. Department co-chair Nancy Fischer is held up as ‘the most astute international trade counsel on the market’; she is representing a large group of US nuclear utilities (known as the Ad Hoc Utilities Group) on trade remedy matters, including on proceedings at the DOC, ITC and CIT. Fellow co-chair Stephan Becker advises on a wide range of trade matters, including trade remedies, trade policy, export controls and customs issues; he is representing the Government of Mexico in ongoing trade remedy proceedings involving a suspension agreement on imports of sugar. Aaron Hutman and counsel Benjamin Cote also advise on trade remedies and trade policy matters.

Practice head(s):

Stephan Becker; Nancy Fischer


Other key lawyers:

Aaron Hutman; Benjamin Cote


Testimonials

‘There is nothing that this team has not seen or experienced through its portfolio, and it uses that history to provide more clear guidance and assist clients with making better decisions and in the creation of pathways forward.’

‘The team also does not claim to know everything, or have the best answers individually, and will confer as a team instead of giving a less confident or fulsome answer. This approach, and willingness to give the best answer instead of the first answer, creates great confidence in the team.’

‘Stephan Becker is bar none the best trade counsel in the world. His demeanor, knowledge, experience and focus on listening make him the ideal outside trade counsel. He understands business, the regulatory environment, and the application of foreign policy to those realms.’

Key clients

General Atomics


Panasonic


Ad Hoc Utilities Group (Duke Energy (Duke Energy Carolinas, LLC and Duke Energy Progress, LLC), Constellation Energy (formerly Exelon Generation Company, LLC), Ameren Missouri, Dominion (Dominion Energy Services, Inc., Virginia Electric and Power Company, Dominion Energy Nuclear Connecticut, Inc., and Dominion Energy South Carolina), Energy Northwest, Entergy Corporation, Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), and Xcel Energy Services, Inc.)


Government of Mexico


Government of New Brunswick


MP Materials


Victaulic


KONE Corporation


Ravago Americas


Valmet Corporation and Valmet Inc.


Work highlights


  • Advised a large group of US nuclear utilities (known as the Ad Hoc Utilities Group) on trade remedy matters since 1999, including on proceedings at the DOC, ITC, CIT, CAFC and US Supreme Court.
  • Represented the Government of Mexico in ongoing trade remedy proceedings involving a suspension agreement on imports of sugar before the DOC, the CIT, and the Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit.
  • Represented the Government of New Brunswick in the Canadian softwood lumber case.

WilmerHale

Trade policy and trade remedy matters are key pillars of WilmerHale’s overarching international trade offering. The team is differentiated by its ability to plug into the wider firm’s thriving government relations and public policy practices and it is regularly involved in sensitive and high-profile investigations, disputes and negotiations. Department chair David Ross is a former international trade counsel to the US Senate and ‘goes the extra mile for his clients’. Ross recently paired up with Jeffrey Kessler, a former Assistant Secretary for Enforcement and Compliance at the DOT, to represent US phosphate fertilizer producer, The Mosaic Company, in a series of trade litigation cases concerning countervailing duty orders on fertilizer imports from Morocco and Russia. Firm co-managing partner Robert Novick is sought after for his combination of international investment, trade policy, negotiation and government affairs expertise; he continues to act alongside Kessler to represent Boeing in the long-running US-EU aircraft disputes at the WTO. The Washington DC-based group also includes special counsel Lauren Mandell, who was formerly at the USTR, where he was a key official in the negotiation of the USMCA and the Trans-Pacific Partnership.



Practice head(s):

David Ross


Other key lawyers:

Jeffrey Kessler; Robert Novick; Lauren Mandell; Patrick McLain; Stephanie Hartmann


Testimonials

‘The team overall is outstanding, because lawyers work together nicely and effectively.’

‘Dave Ross is an exceptionally good partner and friend. He goes the extra mile for his clients.’

Key clients

The Mosaic Company


The Boeing Company


CF Industries Holdings


Visa


Sierra Pacific Industries


Etsy


Baker McKenzie LLP

Over the past year, Baker McKenzie LLP’s trade remedies team handled a slew of Section 201 proceedings, Section 301 investigations and antidumping cases. Christine Streatfeild, based in Washington DC, maintains a broad IP and trade remedies practice and is currently representing 20 different companies in challenging the duties imposed on products imported from China. The group also draws on the senior trade policy expertise of Rod Hunter, a former US Trade Representative (USTR) attorney and White House trade official. Trade remedies specialist Kevin O’Brien retired in January 2022.

Other key lawyers:

Christine Streatfeild; Rod Hunter


Key clients

20 different companies related to the Trump Administration under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974


Regal Rexnord Corporation


Zurn Water Solutions


EDF Renewables, Inc.


GD Copper (USA), Inc.


Work highlights


  • Representing 20 different companies in challenging the duties imposed on products imported from China
  • Representing Regal Rexnord Corporation before the CIT in litigation challenging the Section 301 tariffs.
  • Successfully represented EDF Renewables in obtaining a permanent injunction against the Trump administration’s proclamation that would have imposed tariffs on imports of ‘bifacial’ solar panels.

BakerHostetler

BakerHostetler strikes the right note with clients for its ‘experience and results in getting cases resolved’. Trade remedy litigation is a cornerstone of the firm’s full-service international trade practice and it is particularly recognized for its long-standing representation of Canadian lumber producers in the softwood lumber trade dispute between the US and Canada. Washington DC-based Michael S. Snarr co-heads the department and is acting alongside Elliot J. Feldman, also in DC, to represent its Central Canada lumber clients in antidumping and countervailing duty administrative reviews. DC-based counsel Ronald Baumgarten is also a key contact for trade litigation.

Practice head(s):

Michael S. Snarr


Other key lawyers:

Elliot J. Feldman; Ronald Baumgarten


Testimonials

We value the team for its experience and results in getting cases resolved on behalf of companies and associations in Eastern Canada regarding softwood lumber.’

Key clients

Conseil de l’Industrie Forestière du Québec


Ontario Forest Industries Association


Resolute Forest Products, Inc.


Association for the Administration of Rice Quotas (“AARQ”)


Audio-Technica U.S., Inc.


Anchor Tool & Die Company


Component Hardware Group


Monument Chemical


CTC Acquisition Company


Pentair Filtration Systems


Kulkoni Inc.


Oatey Company


The Orvis Company


JACS Solutions


Crystaphase, Inc.


Fi-Foil Company


Ashtead Technology, Inc.


Federal Express Ground


Work highlights


  • Representing the industry associations, and the largest producer, from two of the five Canadian provinces whose forestry systems are under investigation for subsidies.
  • Representing the Association for the Administration of Rice Quotas on matters related to the implementation and administration of US rice producers’ tariff-rate quotas access to the EU and UK markets.

Morris, Manning & Martin, LLP

A top-notch firm’, Morris, Manning & Martin, LLP’s increasingly prominent practice handles sophisticated trade policy and trade remedy matters. Arguably best known for its record in the steel industry, where it represents major global producers such as POSCO and Hyundai Steel in high-stakes antidumping and countervailing duty proceedings, the group’s recent work also spans the lumber, chemicals and food spheres. Julie Mendoza steers the group from Washington DC and is representing steel pipe manufacturer Borusan Mannesmann in multiple antidumping and countervailing duty cases, as well as in exclusion requests from Section 232 duties. Will Planert and Brady Mills are also experienced trade litigators—both are based in DC.

Practice head(s):

Julie Mendoza


Other key lawyers:

Will Planert; Brady Mills; Mary Hodgins; Jordan Fleischer


Testimonials

A top-notch firm. The team is proactive, professional and stays on top of the topics that impact and affect us.

I’ve worked with other firms in the past, but I am loyal to Morris, Manning & Martin as they are second to none.’

The most important thing is that they care about their clients. The team is relationship driven, as opposed to most firms, which maintain transactional relationships.’

They go over and above the call of duty by anticipating issues, identifying both risks and opportunities and paving the way for customer success.’

Key clients

Borusan Mannesmann


Canfor Corporation


Minh Phu and MSeafood


Dongbu Steel


POSCO


Prosperity Tieh Enterprise Co. Ltd. (Prosperity Tieh)


Les Constructions Beauce-Atlas Inc.


Hyundai Steel


Government of China


Ningbo Daye


Kiswire Ltd.


Bushveld South Africa


Kingtom Aluminio


ARLANXEO Emulsion Rubber


NEXCO