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BUREN strengthens its China practice with the appointment of Rachel Chen as partner

The Hague, 1 July 2025 – BUREN is pleased to announce the appointment of Rachel Chen as partner, effective 1 July 2025. Since joining the firm in 2019, Rachel has played a pivotal role in the continued development of BUREN’s inbound China practice. With her legal expertise and cross-cultural background, she has made a significant contribution to strengthening the firm’s international profile. Rachel Chen is a lawyer at BUREN, specialising in corporate law, commercial contracting and GDPR-related matters, with a particular focus on advising Chinese and other Asian clients. Her in-depth understanding of both the Chinese and Dutch legal systems enables her to seamlessly bridge cultural and legal differences. Rachel obtained her degree in Chinese law from Anhui University and earned an LL.M. in International Business Law and Globalisation from Utrecht University in 2010. In 2014, she completed her bachelor’s degree in Dutch law at Tilburg University. Prior to joining BUREN, Rachel worked at three other law firms, where she further developed her international practice. Paul A. Josephus Jitta, Managing Partner at BUREN: “Rachel’s appointment as partner marks an important milestone for our firm. Her unique background and broad experience make her a valuable asset to our international practice. Over the past years, she has proven herself to be a committed and highly capable professional. We are delighted that she will continue to serve our clients and the firm in this new capacity.” Rachel Chen: “Working with clients and colleagues in a multidisciplinary and internationally oriented firm like BUREN is truly energising. I am grateful for the trust placed in me and look forward to further developing our China practice and contributing to the firm’s international growth in my new role.” Rachel Chen’s appointment underscores BUREN’s ambition to further strengthen its cross-border capabilities and its position as a preferred legal advisor to international clients. About BUREN BUREN is an independent firm of over 75 lawyers, tax advisers and civil-law notaries, with offices in Amsterdam, Beijing, The Hague, Luxembourg and Shanghai. BUREN is a full-service firm with a broad sector focus and a multidisciplinary approach. BUREN operates an internationally oriented practice. Through its own offices in the Netherlands, Luxembourg and China, dedicated country desks (Japan, China, Germany (DACH), Hong Kong SAR, Kazakhstan and Spain/Latin America), and a carefully developed network of foreign law firms and advisers, BUREN supports both national and international clients in expanding, innovating or restructuring their businesses. Clients include multinationals, mid-sized (publicly listed) companies, institutions and investment funds that rely on BUREN for high-quality, pragmatic and cost-effective advice to achieve their goals. (www.burenlegal.com)
Buren - July 4 2025
Press Releases

De Clercq and Secura launch Incident Response Retainer Service: legal and technical readiness against digital threats

Leiden/Amsterdam, June 3, 2025 – In response to the heightened threat of cyberattacks surrounding the upcoming NATO summit and alarming signals from the Dutch Military Intelligence and Security Service (MIVD) and the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), De Clercq Attorneys Notary and cybersecurity specialist Secura (to become Bureau Veritas Cybersecurity as of July 1) have joined forces. Together, they are launching the Incident Response Retainer Service: a 24/7 solution providing organizations with both legal and technical assurance when it matters most. "The digital threat to Dutch organizations is greater than ever," says Natascha van Duuren, partner at De Clercq. "The latest Cybersecurity Assessment Netherlands shows that malicious actors are becoming increasingly opportunistic. During times of geopolitical tension, such as the current NATO summit period, the risk of targeted digital sabotage or extortion rises significantly." That’s why De Clercq and Secura are taking a proactive approach. Luuk Rietveld, Manager of Incident Response and Crisis Management at Secura, states: "This new retainer service ensures immediate access to forensic investigators, ethical hackers, and specialized lawyers, even before an incident occurs. This prevents costly delays during the crucial first hour of a cyber incident." Forensically strong, legally protected Secura is a leading and independent cybersecurity company with over 20 years of experience, staffed by seasoned incident responders and crisis management experts. The company is licensed by the Dutch Ministry of Justice and Security under the Private Security Organizations and Detective Agencies Act. De Clercq has been a leader in IT, privacy, and cybersecurity law for more than 25 years, renowned for its deep expertise and confidentiality. De Clercq’s attorneys are bound by legal privilege and confidentiality, an essential safeguard when dealing with regulators, legal claims, or reputational risks. What does the Incident Response Retainer Service offer? • Immediate legal support regarding notification obligations, liability and communications • Forensic investigation by certified digital private investigators • Guidance in communication with regulators, insurers and media • Protection against reputational damage and legal pitfalls • One-time onboarding and year-round 24/7 readiness at reduced rates A retainer service that goes beyond response This service is designed for organizations that not only want to defend themselves but also be fully prepared. In crisis moments, every second counts—and the difference between delay and swift action can save millions. This partnership creates a unique combination of technical expertise and legal protection, in a service that can be operational from day one. About De Clercq De Clercq Attorneys Notary, based in Leiden and The Hague, specializes in, among other areas, IT, Privacy & Cybersecurity. In the Legal 500 EMEA 2025, the firm is recognized as a top-tier provider in the field of Information Technology. De Clercq supports clients in compliance processes related to privacy and security and is often part of incident response teams, taking the lead on the legal aspects of cyber incidents. About Secura Secura is a specialized security company offering organizations valuable insights into their digital security—focusing on people, processes, and technology. Secura provides audit, testing, and certification services in the domains of IT, IoT, and OT, adhering to international frameworks and standards. As an independent and trusted security partner, Secura is part of the global Bureau Veritas Group. Want more information or immediate connection to the Incident Response Retainer Service? Visit www.declercq.com or www.secura.com for more details.
De Clercq Advocaten Notariaat - June 3 2025
Press Releases

New Indirect Tax Partner

As of May 1st, 2025, Liset Goossens has joined our firm as Wage Tax Partner. We would love to hear what you need from us to share this news! Liset brings broad experience in wage tax, including the international aspects of wage tax. In her previous role as a partner at a Big Four company, she advised her clients on a diverse range of wage and personal income tax aspects. Liset’s expertise includes taxation of compensation and benefits, board and executive remuneration, wage tax audits, wage tax due diligence, payroll setup, social security, cross-border employment, severance payments, equity incentives and the assessment of work relationships (Wet DBA). She serves clients across all industries, from consumer products and retail to pharmaceutical and financial services. Liset translates deep technical tax knowledge into practical advice for her clients’ businesses. Her clients value her personal approach and hands-on solutions, and recognize her as a trusted advisor. Liset is an active member of the Dutch Association of Tax Advisors (NOB) and its Women’s Network. Liset has published multiple articles in Dutch magazines and she regularly speaks at seminars. Throughout her career, she has been on international assignments to London and California. After having worked at EY for more than 15 years, she joined VanLoman in May 2025. Expertise Wage Tax Wet DBA Executive remuneration Severance packages Social security Cross-border employment 30% ruling Languages Dutch English Education Master Tax Law, Maastricht University Other professional activities Member of the Dutch Association of Tax Advisors (NOB)
VanLoman - May 24 2025
Press Releases

AKD expands Real Estate practice with the arrival of international expert Jan-Willem Raadgever

AKD welcomes Jan-Willem Raadgever as a partner in the real estate practice at its Amsterdam office. Alongside him, Jip Post is also joining AKD. Jip specialises in real estate development and brings additional expertise for both Dutch and international investors and developers. With their combined experience in real estate development, construction law, and procurement law, they strengthen AKD’s position in the sector and provide valuable support to clients who are active in or looking to enter the Dutch market. The real-estate sector is evolving rapidly. New regulations, risk management and strategic choices in large-scale projects require a well-thought-out approach. Jan-Willem understands the challenges that international parties face when entering the Dutch market. In addition to a sharp focus on the legal aspects, he also helps his clients make smart strategic decisions, ensuring that their projects are not only successfully launched but also future-proof. "At AKD, I have the opportunity to apply my experience within a dynamic and ambitious team," says Jan-Willem Raadgever. "Many international parties see opportunities in the Netherlands but struggle with strict regulations and procedures. I assist them not only in overcoming these hurdles but also in establishing a stronger, long-term presence in this market. With its full-service expertise, scale, knowledge and experience, AKD enables me to support my clients even more effectively and comprehensively." Carlos Pita Cao, managing partner at AKD, highlights that Jan-Willem’s expertise is a significant asset to the team: "His experience with both Dutch and international parties makes him a valuable addition. Jan-Willem quickly grasps complex issues and provides directly applicable solutions. His vision aligns perfectly with AKD’s focus on sustainable solutions and long-term relationships." With Jan-Willem’s arrival, AKD strengthens its position in the real estate sector, both nationally and internationally. His broad expertise in risk management, project development and strategic advice makes him a valuable sparring partner for investors and developers looking to establish themselves in the Netherlands—or to scale up or restructure existing projects.
AKD - May 16 2025