Firms To Watch: International arbitration

Boutique firm Breakpoint LLC has significant experience in shareholder and joint venture disputes, as well as investor-state disputes. A range of blue-chip companies rely on the team led by Darius Chan and KC Lye.
Gibson Dunn is building its international arbitration practice following its recruitment of Paul Tan - he is well known for his extensive expertise across commercial and investor state work. He is leading the firm’s Asia arbitration practice.
Based in Singapore and Hong Kong, Helmsman LLC‘s acts for an international clientele and provides specialism in shipping and commodities trading disputes. Ian Teo, Tang Chong Jun, Maureen Poh and Zhida Chen are practice co-heads.
Iain Sharp leads the practice at Hill Dickinson LLP that has ‘outstanding experience of international arbitration in the shipping, commodities, and energy sectors’. Andrew Lee is key to the team, with extensive expertise in marine, trade, and energy-related arbitrations.
King & Wood Mallesons was strengthen in 2021 by the arrival of disputes expert Amanda Lees - she leads a team that has expertise in both investor-state disputes and the enforcement of awards.
Thio Shen Yi SC leads the TSMP Law Corporation practice which is increasing active in international arbitration arising from construction, commercial contracts and technology disputes.
The arbitration team at Withers KhattarWong LLP acts on major disputes across a range of sectors, with particular expertise in cryptocurrency, AI and blockchain disputes. Deborah Barker SC  is head of the practice, while Shaun Leong  is another key team member.
Boutique firm Providence Law Asia LLC acts for a wide array of local and foreign companies in cross-border disputes. Abraham Vergis SC leads the practice and has extensive experience along with Zhuo Jiaxiang and Asiyah Arif.

International arbitration in Singapore

Clifford Chance

Clifford Chance boasts ‘one of the best teams in the region‘ in the international arbitration space, advising on a range of Singaporean and international law issues across sectors. The alliance of the firm with local firm Cavenagh Law LLP gives the unique access to Singapore courts, allowing the firm to act on more complex mandates. Multi-jurisdictional expertise is a strength of the team, and its insight into the Indian market ‘makes it seamless for them to understand the issues being faced by a company on the ground’. Nish Shetty, who is qualified both in Singapore and as a solicitor in England and Wales, acts as the head of the practice alongside Paul Sandosham, who has vast expertise across the energy sector as an experienced construction lawyer. ‘Master tactician’ Kabir Singh is integral to the team, acting for large multinational corporations, international banks, and financial institutions.

Practice head(s):

Nish Shetty; Paul Sandosham


Other key lawyers:

Kabir Singh


Testimonials

‘One of the best teams in the region; can draw on their global status while having a strong local presence’

‘Nish Shetty is very highly-regarded for his knowledge of the industry.

‘Paul Sandosham specialises in complex high-level projects.’

‘Kabir Singh is always two steps ahead of the other side; a master tactician.’

‘The firm works with an objective to resolve disputes as cost effectively and efficiently as possible. They have a strong track record in developing and implementing innovative commercial solutions for the amicable settlement of disputes.’

‘The team’s global arbitration practice provides organisations with arbitration experts wherever in the world they operate. They believe in the power of teams, rather than individuals: to secure successful outcomes, they bring together groups of people with just the right mix of sector, product and jurisdictional knowledge.’

‘The team is always on top of issues and very easy to deal with. They have insights into the Indian market which makes it seamless for them to understand the issues being faced by a company on the ground – this really sets them apart from other international law firms dealing with India related issues. ’

‘Very easy to approach, commercially minded and always available for clients at any time of the day. ’

Work highlights


  • Defending a wind turbine manufactuer against allegations of defects in US$750 million in Indian-law governed claims for loss of economic value, loss of revenue, loss of reputation and increased finance costs by an owner in an Indian-seated arbitration spanning across four different wind turbine projects.
  • Advised the founder of a leading Indian fintech company in connection with SIAC Emergency Arbitration proceedings arising out of a Shareholders Agreement for a business operating in QR code transactions.
  • Representing two subsidiaries of a leading global financial services and banking company as respondents in an SIAC arbitration commenced by a former mining magnate and businessman in Australia and his associated companies. The claims put forward by the individual and his associated companies arose out of a merger between certain Australian companies and include allegations of misrepresentation, breach of fiduciary duties, and breach of trust.

Herbert Smith Freehills LLP

Herbert Smith Freehills LLP is known as a stand-out firm for international arbitration.  Alastair Henderson heads the Singapore team (and is head of arbitration for Southeast Asia). His extensive expertise includes arbitration in the oil and gas, infrastructure and construction sectors and together with Tomas Furlong and Gitta Satryani, the team works with colleagues across the region on some of the most complex cases.

 

 

Practice head(s):

Alastair Henderson


Other key lawyers:

Tomas Furlong; Gitta Satryani


King & Spalding LLP

King & Spalding LLP has a ‘top-tier arbitration practice’, with a notable practice spanning oil and gas, construction, and investment treaty arbitration. Mandates undertaken by the team are often high-value and international in nature, acting for high-profile clients including the Chevron Corporation. Wade Coriell acts as the head of the team alongside Nils Eliasson, with the pair leading on many of the key matters undertaken by the practice. The team, which ‘consistently attracts high-value and cutting-edge work globally’, also includes Elodie Dulac, a co-founding partner of the team, and Anisha Sud.

Practice head(s):

Wade M. Coriell; Nils Eliasson


Other key lawyers:

Elodie Dulac; Anisha Sud


Testimonials

‘K&S has a top-tier arbitration practice and consistently attracts high-value and cutting-edge work globally.

‘Given the firm’s strengths, K&S is always on the shortlist of international law firms that we consider when we choose our co-counsel for major matters. Their reputation makes recommending them to our clients very easy.’

‘I have worked with Nils Eliasson for an important advisory matter for a dispute (that was ultimately settled amicably). The matter was super-urgent, and arose at an inconvenient time, but Nils was very responsive and hard-working. The matter required cross-office staffing and coordination, which Nils spearheaded. The advice we received in the end formed the basis for our client’s settlement strategy – which worked in the client’s favour.’

‘Strong international arbitration practice, including disputes with host states or actions under bilateral investment treaties. Experienced and highly professional. ’

‘For recent work key partners involved are Elodie Dulac, Wade Coriell and Nils Eliasson, I am very happy with the timeliness and quality of their work product, and skill in advocacy and communication. ’

Key clients

Prime Energy Resources Development B.V. (formerly Shell Philippines Exploration B.V.)


Chevron Thailand Exploration and Production, Ltd.


Min Fengzhen


National Grid Corporation of the Philippines


Chevron Corporation


Work highlights


  • Representing Chevron’s Thai subsidiary, CTEP, in a US$ 2 billion dispute against the Kingdom of Thailand and its Ministry of Energy.
  • Advising the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines in an UNCITRAL arbitration against two Philippine owned and controlled parties, the Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corporation and the National Transmission Corporation. The primary claim involves the validity of a $1bn that NGCP made in July 2013, forming part of the $4bn concession fee which NGCP agreed to pay for the right to exclusively operate the Philippines’ transmission grid network for 25 years.

WongPartnership LLP

WongPartnership LLP offers ‘a compelling blend of rigour and innovation in their market leading services‘ in its practice, which has impressive capabilities across commercial and investment treaty arbitrations, as well as litigation to enforce awards. The team is led by ‘incredibly strong and knowledgeable partners’, including Sean Yu Chou and Swee Yen Koh SC, whose practices centre on international commercial arbitrations. ‘Masterful advocate and strategist’ Wendy Lin is integral to the team that continues to grow, with the arrival of Monisha Cheong from TSMP Law Corporation in February 2023.

Practice head(s):

Sean Yu Chou; Swee Yen Koh SC


Other key lawyers:

Wendy Lin; Joel Quek; Monisha Cheong


Testimonials

‘WongPartnership has a very strong bench, from the lead partner to the junior associates supporting the team.’

‘Wendy Lin is tremendous. She is a masterful advocate and strategist, with outstanding judgement, technical skills and ability to command copious documents without losing sight of what is at the heart of the case. An absolute star on top of her game. It is clear she has the respect and ear of the arbitrators, the court and her opponents.’

‘A compelling blend of rigour and innovation in their market leading services.’

‘Wendy Lin is rightly at the forefront of market leading work; a compelling blend of innovation and rigour.’

‘Swee Yen Koh SC is excellent all around. She excels at the law, is a keen tactician, knows and guides the clients, and is a brilliant advocate. What makes her special is that no matter how busy she is, she never lets one down – be it on matters or the simple organizing of a panel or a conference. She does it all, at highest quality and in good time.’

‘Very strong firm in the Singapore market, led by incredibly strong and knowlegeable partners’

‘Joel Quek led the matter effectively, being responsive and sophisticated in provision of advice. The matter related to a reported case that set new precedent, and which we won.’

‘Sean Chou – I have sat with him as arbitrator and very impressed with his thorough and thoughtful approach. Swee Yen Koh is an excellent advocate, one of the best in Singapore. Wendy Lin is also a superb advocate and her no-nonsense approach is very appreciated by tribunals.’

Key clients

Deutsche Telekom AG


WeMade Co., Ltd


Lao Holdings N.V.


Sanum Investments Ltd


KPN Energy Holding


Fullerton Bay Investment Limited


Thai-Lao Lignite


Byrich Holdings Limited


Keppel Pegasus Pte Ltd


Amazon.com NV Investment Holdings LLC


Independent State of Papua New Guinea


Work highlights


  • Acting for Deutsche Telekom AG in proceedings in the Singapore International Commercial Court to enforce an investment treaty arbitration award against the Republic of India, with a significant quantum in dispute in excess of US$140 million. We were successful in resisting the Republic of India’s application to set aside the order granting leave to enforce the award.
  • Acted as counsel for two Korean entities in a Singapore-seated ICC arbitration involving the licensing rights to a popular online game, and successfully obtained a USD 150 award against three Respondents incorporated in the People’s Republic of China, the Cayman Islands and the Republic of Korea. We successfully resisted the setting aside applications brought by the respondents before the Singapore International Commercial Court.

Allen & Gledhill LLP

Allen & Gledhill LLP boasts a ‘well-established dispute resolution team in the region’, with expertise in arbitrations linked to infrastructure, energy, construction and engineering work. The practice is skilled in handling multijurisdictional disputes with concurrent South-east Asia based litigation, and has experience appearing in front of both the SIAC and Asian International Arbitration Centre, with members of the department commended for their ‘solid understanding of the local laws’. ‘Outstanding advocateDinesh Dhillon and ‘very knowledgeableChong Yee Leong act as co-heads of the practice, with Ramesh Selvaraj as deputy head. Also key to the team are the ‘articulate and highly diligentMargaret Ling, and Ankit Goyal, who is commended for possessing ‘great commercial acumen’.

Practice head(s):

Chong Yee Leong; Dinesh Dhillon; Ramesh Selvaraj


Other key lawyers:

Margaret Ling; Ankit Goyal


Testimonials

‘Margaret Ling is hardworking and knows the law at her fingertips. She’s also able to understand the business enough to provide a reasonable, and commercial legal solution.’

Joshua Hiew is a star in his generation and work tirelessly. He is super smart and can structure arguments in a very local manner. A guy should have on your side. ’

‘Strength in depth, working seamlessly across partners and services. Building the appropriate team for the matter and drawing on expertise where required – to be efficient and effective for clients. ’

‘Margaret Ling is really good, articulate and highly diligent – great on feet and on paper. Ankit Goyal is a go to partner for India (or actually any other matters), legal mind with great commercial acumen. Dinesh Dhillon is an outstanding advocate – the consummate professional: humble yet hard hitting – a great combination in front of tribunals. Chong Yee Leong is a great advocate and very knowledgeable across sectors.

‘I work primarily with Ankit Goyal. Ankit is reliable and great to work with. He is responsive and his inputs, advise and insights are always very helpful. His key strength lies in his client management skills, which is par excellence. ’

‘Dinesh Dhillon, as our lead counsel representing us in arbitration, manages his team solidly and is able to get a handle on complex cases quickly. He is sharp and able to think up creative arguments to support or counter a case. He is assisted by Erik Widjaja, who is a native Bahasa Indonesia speaker. He is able to read and write in Bahasa Indonesia which creates a perfect blend of synergy with the Indonesian counsel and other Indonesian stakeholders involved in the matter. Erik is also adaptable and able to see a case in different angles and meticulous in his work.’

‘A&G’s International Arbitration team is a well-established dispute resolution team in the region, with deep expertise in commercial and M&A matters.’

‘Extremely client friendly and responsive. Top of the market without a doubt.’

Baker McKenzie Wong & Leow

Baker McKenzie Wong & Leow enjoys a strong reputation in multiple fields, and is ‘one of the busiest international arbitration practices in Singapore with work from a wide range of geographies and sectors’. The team is particularly well-versed in arbitrations involving technology, renewables, and third-party funding disputes, and has strong cross jurisdictional capabilities. Investor-state arbitration work is another key point of distinction of the practice that is overseen by Nandakumar Ponniya, who is recognised alongside Ashish Chugh for being ‘strong advocates regularly appearing as lead counsel in arbitrations’. Within the energy and aviation sector, Richard Allen is noted.

Practice head(s):

Nandakumar Ponniya


Other key lawyers:

Ashish Chugh; Dominic Sharman; Celeste Ang; Pradeep Nair; Spencer Lee; Richard Allen; Nicholas Tan; Kai Tai Yiu


Testimonials

‘One of the busiest international arbitration practices in Singapore with work from a wide range of geographies and sectors.’

‘Nandakumar Ponniya and Ashish Chugh are well known in the market. They strong advocates regularly appearing as lead counsel in arbitrations.’

‘Very experienced. Excellent knowledge of arbitration procedure for commercial disputes and provide helpful, calm advice. Great ability to pick up a brief on very technical matters and articulate in simple terms to lay clients and arbitrators. ’

Key clients

Border Timbers Limited (in Judicial Management), Hangani Development Co. (Private) Limited


Anupam Mittal


Allianz SE


PT Garuda Indonesia (Persero) Tbk


Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners


Border Timbers Limited (in Judicial Management)


Hangani Development Co. (Private) Limited


Work highlights


  • Singapore Court proceedings to enforce an ICSID award against the Republic of Zimbabwe in a case raising issues of law that are unique to the registration of investment arbitration award against states.
  • Represented the client, founder of www.shaadi.com, a leading matchmaking and matrimony portal in South Asia, in Singapore Court proceedings to resist an anti-suit injunction obtained by the counterparty, for purposes of restraining the client continuing with his claim in the National Company Law Tribunal in Mumbai.

Davinder Singh Chambers

Davinder Singh Chambers is ‘extremely skilled at disputes in both court and arbitration’, with the practice regularly entrusted by major businesses, financial services institutions and high-net-worth individuals. The team undertakes high-profile cases across a wide range of industries, with mining and energy key sector focuses. ‘Top notch litigatorDavinder Singh SC leads the team of ‘hardworking and capable lawyers’, with a practice involving complex commercial disputes both in Singapore and internationally. Key to the team is Jaikanth Shankar, who brings a wealth of experience in international commercial arbitration and insolvency-related matters, and Sngeeta Rai, with vast expertise across shareholder disagreements and other areas.

Practice head(s):

Davinder Singh SC


Other key lawyers:

Jaikanth Shankar; Sngeeta Rai


Testimonials

‘The team at Davinder Singh Chambers is extremely skilled at disputes in both court and arbitration. They are able to absorb information very quickly. Moreover the team’s strategisation and advocacy is simply superb. ’

‘The individuals I consider to be standouts are Davinder Singh SC, Jaikanth Shankar, Timothy Lin, and David Fong. Having worked with them on an arbitration and also worked against them in another arbitration, I can confidently say that they are extremely adept at strategisation and advocacy. Davinder and Jaikanth are especially skilled at mapping out how the case should be run and foreseeing potential problems. Davinder cross-examination and oral delivery of arguments is probably the best I have seen at this moment. ’

‘Davinder Singh SC is a top-notch litigator, supported by a team of hardworking and capable lawyers. They are able to get up to speed on complex matters quickly and present the case in an easy to understand, and persuasive manner.’

 

Work highlights


Drew & Napier LLC

The international arbitration practice at Drew & Napier LLC is ‘highly skilled and collaborative’, with experience in complex international commercial arbitration, as well as high-profile investor-state disputes. The team is often sought out by governments, multinational corporations and high-profile individuals for public international law matters. Expertise of the team ranges from construction and infrastructure to corporate joint ventures to health care. Leading the team is Cavinder Bull SC  who is ‘exceptional for his strategy, analytical skills, and advocacy’, alongside Randolph Khoo and Siraj Omar SC, with particular expertise in insurance related disputes. Jimmy Yim SC is also integral to the team, with over thirty years of experience in international commercial arbitration.

Practice head(s):

Cavinder Bull SC; Randolph Khoo; Siraj Omar SC


Other key lawyers:

Lin Shumin; Mahesh Rai


Testimonials

‘The team has broad and in-depth knowledge and experience in disputes and litigation. ’

‘Lin Shumin was able to understand the issue quickly and was thorough in her examination of the materials and was able to decisively propose course of action.’

‘Drew & Napier presents a well-organized team with appropriate level of lawyers, with a deep expertise in Singapore Law and International Arbitration. They are very good at collaborating with co-counsel, with efficient case management skills.’

‘Yuan Kheng Tan is quick in response and understands the client’s demands. She is good at coordinating the resources.’

‘Mahesh Rai has formed a very good team and can think well strategically and practically.’

‘Cavinder Bull is exceptional for his strategy analytical skills and advocacy.’

‘Foo Yuet Min and Cavinder Bull are both excellent advocates. Foo Yuet Min a pleasure to work with, she is extremely personable to go with her bright intellect.’

‘Chris Chong is an outstanding trial counsel in energy arbitrations.’

Work highlights


Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer

The practice at Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer is commended for ‘its cutting-edge knowledge and seamless client service’, with the team ‘extremely systematic and thorough in assessing the strengths and weaknesses of a case’. Oil and gas, energy, construction, and international trade are all areas the practice is noted for their capacity in, among other areas acting for major global energy companies. ‘Super smart and great to work withNicholas Lingard sits at the helm of the team, frequently acting as lead counsel for high-profile arbitrations for global energy companies, state-owned enterprises, and private equity firms. At associate level, Rohit Bhat is ’superb to work with’, and along with Lingard, recognised for their ‘commercial acumen’.

Practice head(s):

Nicholas Lingard


Other key lawyers:

Samantha Tan; Rohit Bhat


Testimonials

‘The team is extremely systematic and thorough in assessing the strengths and weaknesses of a case. They maintain a very high standard throughout.’

‘Nicholas Lingard and Chan Yong Wei are outstanding in their ability to strategically map out the development of a case and anticipate challenges ahead with amazing foresight.’

‘A strong team of very good lawyers, always available and great ability to think strategically. ’

Key clients

Republic of Korea (South Korea)


Eurus Energy


GPIX


ConocoPhillips


BP


Marubeni Corporation


Nissan Motor Company


Work highlights


  • Represented Eurus Energy Holding, the leading Japan-based renewable energy firm and a member of the Toyota Group, in its ICSID arbitration against Spain arising from Spain’s changes to its feed-in tariff renewables incentives regime.
  • Representing the Republic of Korea in enforcement proceedings arising out of an investment treaty arbitral award against the government.
  • Representing GPIX in a high-stakes arbitration against the Government of India under the India-Mauritius BIT.

Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP

Leading firm in Southeast AsiaRajah & Tann Singapore LLP has a ‘well-established and highly regarded’ international arbitration practice, with expertise in high-value cross-border litigation and arbitration proceedings. The department is particularly well versed in government-related work, joint venture, international construction and natural resources. The team is jointly led by ‘master strategistKelvin Poon SC and Avinash Pradhan, who enjoys a strong reputation in multiple fields, including corporate finance, M&A, joint venture, and shareholder disputes. For one client, Devathas Satianathan and Andre Yeap SC’s ‘knowledge of international commercial law and arbitration is outstanding’. The team continues to grow, with the arrival of Divyesh Menon from Mayer Brown in August 2022, and Vanina Sucharitkul from Herbert Smith Freehills LLP in March 2023.

Practice head(s):

Kelvin Poon SC; Avinash Pradhan


Other key lawyers:

Devathas Satianthan; Andre Yeap SC; Divyesh Menon; Vanina Sucharitkul


Testimonials

‘R&T is one of Singapore’s largest and oldest law firms. This equates to a deep bench of relationships and knowledge across the legal fraternity which allows R&T to tailor each dispute resolution process to accentuate the arguments that are most effective for a particular judge or arbitrator or opposing counsel. Their large team also ensures that they have more capacity than other firms to research, uncover and make important, detailed arguments to advocate on behalf of their clients. It also allowed them to flex the size of the team up and down based on the requirements of the case as needed. The R&T team was also very diverse by ethnicity, gender, backgrounds and case experiences which enabled them to come up with more diverse and effective arguments for our case.’

‘Vikram Nair is the most commercially astute lawyer I have come across. He is able to combine a good understanding of the numbers and an innate understanding of many different types of businesses given his background as a former Management Consultant at McKinsey with a deep understanding of the law. He is thus able to boil down complex commercial disputes into clear cut legal matters for the tribunal or court to decide. He is particularly strong on cross-examination with both experts and witnesses.

‘Kevin Tan is a very strong, strategic and eloquent lawyer. He is able to focus the tribunal’s attention on the most important legal arguments of a case. I appreciated his dedication and diligence in preparing his clients for opening statements, cross-examination and trial. ’

‘The lawyers involved make themselves available and think out of the box, looking for solutions when the need arises.’

‘We have worked together with Rajah & Tann on a couple of disputes cases over the last 12 months. I would describe the team as flexible, open minded, diligent, and well-suited to working together in a colloborative capacity. ’

‘Kelvin Poon and David Tan. Kelvin is a master strategist. David is the hardworking senior associate who is always up to date on the research and is always taking the initiative for efficient case management. ’

‘Rajah & Tann is a leading firm in South East Asia. Its large arbitration practice is well established and highly regarded.’

‘Devathas and Andre Yeap SC’s knowledge of international commercial laws and Arbitration was outstanding. Their approach to the counsel and client briefing them was also very professional. It was a pleasure working with them.

Key clients

Large Indian conglomerate


The Republic of the Philippines


Vedanta Limited


Various Southeast Asian entities


National Bank of Fujairah


Roberto 16 Pte Ltd (Owners of “Di Matteo”) and the Standard P&I Club (as the shipowner’s P & I insurer)


Hilton Group


Phnom Penh SEZ Plc


FIMBank plc


National Oilwell Varco Norway AS


York International Pte Ltd


A Japanese corporation


Work highlights


  • Representing the Republic of the Philippines (the Government)in arbitration proceedings before the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC). The dispute centred on claims for breach of contract brought by two large multi-national oil and gas companies, Chevron and Shell(the Claimants) against the Government in relation to Claimants’ liability to pay income taxes due to the Government.
  • Representing Vedanta in two matters relating to a Singapore-seated treaty arbitration under the UNCITRAL Rules arising from its claims, which are valued in excess of US$3 billion, against the Republic of India under the United Kingdom-India Bilateral Investment Treaty arising from India’s retrospective usage of legislation to impose capital gain taxes and interest in relation to certain sale proceeds.
  • Acting in a dispute with a foreign investor over gaming interests in a Southeast Asian country. The foreign investor has alleged that it was wrongfully deprived of its profits stemming from those interests. The matter is fixed for hearing in February 2022.

White & Case Pte. Ltd.

For one client, White & Case Pte. Ltd. boasts a ‘team that is emerging as the leading international arbitration practice in Singapore’, encompassing oil and gas, investor-state, construction, and transaction-related disputes. The practice is sought out by clients across governmental, energy, and corporate sectors, notably representing the Indian government in investor-state disputes. Head of the practice, Matthew Secomb is ‘not only a first-class lawyer, but also an excellent project leader in cross-border cases’, and is particularly noted for his energy-related and construction disputes work. Also of note is Aditya Singh, who ‘is a brilliant strategist and superb advocate’, and at associate level, ‘very responsive and practicalPhilip Tan.

Practice head(s):

Matthew Secomb


Other key lawyers:

Aditya Singh; Philip Tan


Testimonials

‘The team led by Matthew Secomb is extremely professional, with great case management and produce high quality work. They are able to understand and dive into technical and commercial details of the case, making communication effortless and enabling creative solutions for various legal issues.’

‘Matt Secomb is experienced, highly responsive and can provide precise and actionable advice to the client. Philip Tan is a rising star with capability to understand complex legal and technical issues, and communicates with client team and experts efficiently.’

‘W&C Singapore arbitration team is a team you want to rely on in a very difficult case. With rich experiences and top-class expertise, they are the leading team in price review and arbitration in Asia and the Pacific. Every partner and associate I have worked with are brilliant professionals -deep expertise, client-focused and pragmatic. Especially, their high standard of professionalism and work ethics always make my working experiences with them pleasant and comfortable. ’

‘Matt Secomb is one of the best lawyers I have worked with. He is not only a first-class lawyer, but also an excellent project leader in cross-border cases. His abilities to steer various work streams and get out of the best from team members are exceptional. He is always very well balanced, pragmatic and finds the best solution in difficult situations. Especially, the unique combination of European and Asian price reviews made him truly an unparalleled lawyer in the field.

‘Philip Tan is an exceptional lawyer, and is very responsive and practical. His deep knowledge on Asian price review makes him a first-class lawyer in his generation. Further, his project coordination and client communication are highly effective. He always spends his time for follow-up calls to find an optimal solution for a client. His drafting is also worth noting -strong, lucid and intelligent.’

‘Clemency Wang is a brilliant lawyer. She is incredibly smart and sharp. Her analytical flair always brings enormous values to discussions and hone your arguments. Her intelligence is something every client would hugely appreciate when one works with W&C Singapore international arbitration team.’

‘They are well organized and have expertise at the team’

‘The resources are truly international. Comprehensively trained in multiple jurisdictions. Their senior resources are trained in India, UK and the US. They have unique resources like these across the vast disputes practice area cutting across disputes resolution, litigation, policy advocacy, regulatory, etc. We have had the benefit of some critical advisory initiatives from time to time. ’

Key clients

Republic of India


Work highlights


  • Represented India in a second UNCITRAL arbitration brought by claimants under the Mauritius-India BIT. This is pursuant to defending India across multiple jurisdictions in which the claimants have been pursuing enforcement of an approximate $150 million award against India issued by a Netherlands-seated Permanent Court of Arbitration tribunal in an arbitration arising under the Mauritius-India BIT.
  • Representing an infrastructure investment firm, on a dispute relating to two joint venture agreements with a project developer on offshore wind farms in Asia.
  • Representing one of the largest LNG buyers in Asia in Singapore-seated price review arbitrations for the long-term sale and purchase of LNG.

Ashurst LLP

The international arbitration practice at Ashurst has wide-ranging competence, particularly in energy disputes, where the firm has ‘an expertise and market knowledge in this space that few other firms can match’. High-value mandates are undertaken regularly by the team, with experience in financial and M&A disputes, as well as LNG pricing matters. ‘Experienced and talented partnerRob Palmer is the head of the team, and is commended for his ‘fantastic expertise and communication skills’. Also of note is dual-qualified Michael Weatherley, with expertise in energy, infrastructure, M&A, and shareholder disputes.

Practice head(s):

Rob Palmer


Other key lawyers:

Michael Weatherley


Testimonials

‘Well-established construction disputes team with solid leadership. Particularly well known for energy sector work in the Indonesian market. That said, they are a go to international firm for matters across Asia’

‘Rob Palmer: Rob has been based in Singapore for over 20 years. He is a top tier construction disputes lawyer. I particularly like working with Rob because of his calm demeanour and ability to bring focus when disruptive events arise.’

‘They have more than enough knowledge of the practices of work execution manner in the EPC works of industrial plant project. So, they are very quick to understand what is at stake, including disputed history, and can have very constructive discussions with a client. In addition, in arbitration proceedings, it is necessary to engage appropriate technical experts. They have strong network in global basis and can completely seek such appropriate experts in a timely manner. ’

Bird & Bird ATMD LLP

Bird & Bird ATMD LLP’s international arbitration practice is ‘very on the ball, responsive, and gives practical advice’ for its clients that span a wide range of industry sectors, from financial services and insurance to energy and mining. The firm is particularly well-established in TMT and IP-related disputes, with Jonathan Choo highly active in these fields. Lijun Chui is key to the team, with experience in domestic and international arbitrations across energy, oil and gas, and maritime sectors, in addition to the practice’s mainstays of technology and IP. Akshay Kishore, who is qualified both in India and as an English solicitor, has ‘excellent contacts in India and exceptional experience on India-related disputes’, and is noted alongside ‘exceptional attorneyShaun Lee.

Other key lawyers:

Jonathan Choo; Lijun Chui; Akshay Kishore; Shaun Lee


Testimonials

‘The team led by Akshay Kishore and assisted by Mark Ng was able to give sound advise on the matter to the clients. Their advise was timely and practical. ’

‘Akshay Kishore was having great deep understanding of the contractual dispute matter we dealt with. He was able to navigate the complex legal issue of interpretation wisely. He has been approachable at all times to resolves the issues quickly. ’

‘Akshay Kishore has excellent contacts in India and exceptional experience on India-related disputes.’

‘Bird and Bird’s dispute resolution team have been excellent in their advice as well as been fantastic in helping us with the negotiation during the mediation session. The team is extremely well versed with the law and practical aspects of resolving disputes. ’

‘Shuan Lee is an excellent attorney. He has provided us with excellent advice and is always available to discuss and resolve any doubts or clarifications that we have asked of him. His command of the subject has been extremely helpful in helping us resolve the dispute.’

‘The degree of care the team took to determine our goals and circumstances and especially the frank and honest assessment of our case probabilities, which Is critical with high stakes.’

‘The team is very on the ball, responsive and generally gives practical advice.’

‘Jonathan Choo is clearly very experienced in arbitration matters and is able to give valuable insights into practical steps forward, and likely outcomes of different paths. He is able to weigh all the circumstances of the matter and present multiple ways forward, while still clearly communicating which of those will gather the best outcome. ’

Key clients

Chainup Pte Ltd


DXC


Voltas Limited


Denholm Yam Contracting Company LLC


Jinbhuvish Entities


SunBio Inc. (South Korea)


Borneo Benar Sdn Bhd


Work highlights


  • Acting for DXC, a technology services company, in the commencement of an SIAC arbitration arising out of an agreement for the joint provision of IT services.
  • Representing Denholm Yam Construction company in 3 ICC arbitrations, seated in Dubai and Singapore, involving disputes in excess of US$ 70 million over construction of 3 separate pipelines for ADNOC’s Fujairah Oil Refinery, with related court proceedings in UAE.
  • Acting for Voltas Ltd. in four separate arbitrations, against sub-contractors and the employer, relating to design and construction of tunnel ventilation systems in relation to major roadway and rail tunnel projects in Singapore.

Clyde & Co Clasis Singapore

The international arbitration practice at Clyde & Co Clasis Singapore has a presence across the region, advising leading clients on complex arbitrations. Cross-border disputes are a mainstay of the practice, with the team frequently representing multinational companies notably including Chevron Corporation, Hyundai Engineering, and Merlin Entertainment on matters across Singapore, India, Indonesia, and South Korea. At leadership level, Prakash Pillai, Leon Alexander, Ik Wei Chong, and Eugene Tan are key names in the practice. Noted practitioners include Andrew Bicknell, Weiyi Tan, and Nicholas Lum.

Practice head(s):

Prakash Pillai; Leon Alexander; Ik Wei Chong; Eugene Tan


Other key lawyers:

Andrew Bicknell; Weiyi Tan; Nicholas Lum


Key clients

Chevron Corporation


Hyundai Engineering & Construction Co., Ltd.


DL E&C Co., Ltd


Sumitomo Corporation


Mott MacDonald Singapore Pte Ltd


Lin & Partners (Taiwanese Local Counsel, on behalf of Foxwell Energy)


Merlin Entertainments


Dechert

In addition to a ‘global reach and talent pool’, Dechert has a ‘very local office with local expertise in Singapore’ which extends to the international arbitration capabilities of the team. Commercial arbitration, investment treaty disputes and sports arbitration are all at the forefront of the team’s expertise, the ‘very intelligent and industriousMark Mangan highly active in all three. Practice group leader Mangan further ‘brings a wealth of experience in the oil and gas and energy disputes space’. Maria Tan Pedersen is ‘very engaged, motivating, and a key player’, and is noted alongside senior associate ‘future starDaniel Gaw, who is ‘very intellectual and technically smart’.

Practice head(s):

Mark Mangan


Other key lawyers:

Maria Tan Pedersen; Daniel Gaw


Testimonials

‘They have a global reach and talent pool, but also a very local office with local expertise in Singapore. ’

‘Mark Mangan has appeared before me in a few large arbitrations and is an excellent advocate. Very on top of the case, thorough and persuasive.

‘Daniel Gaw is a future star. Very intellectual and technically smart.’

‘The team is very clever and looks to find the best answer for their clients.’

‘Mark Mangan is very intelligent and industrious. ’

‘Maria Tan Pedersen is a superstar. Very engaged, motivating, a key player!’

‘Mark Mangan is a stand-out arbitration counsel. Incisive in his analysis of the legal issues, and brings a wealth of experience in the oil and gas and energy disputes space. ’

Key clients

ExxonMobil


Eye Company Limited


Rizzani de Eccher S.p.A.


Dentons Rodyk

The international arbitration practice at Dentons Rodyk is ‘professional, effective, and extremely competent’, consisting of ‘reputable and high-quality partners’. Chinese state-owned corporates and large Indonesian clients spanning a wide range of sectors entrust the team with complex, cross-jurisdictional mandates across construction and engineering, energy, shipping, and international trade. Lawrence Teh leads the team with particular experience handling commercial disputes, including those linked to international trade and commodities. He is joined at leadership level by Herman Jeremiah, who has extensive shareholder and joint venture dispute knowledge. Rodney Keong is ‘commercially savvy as well as a very good lawyer’ and is recommended.

Practice head(s):

Lawrence Teh; Herman Jeremiah


Other key lawyers:

Rodney Keong; Ajinderpal Singh; Kia Jeng Koh


Testimonials

‘I am very impressed with the international arbitration team at Dentons Rodyk in Singapore. They are professional, effective and extremely competent.’

‘Rodney Keong is the partner with whom my firm and I work, and he is commercially savvy as well as a very good lawyer. He is definitely an advocate that I would always like to work with on the same side. Rodney leads a strong team of lawyers, who are responsive, efficient and effective. ’

‘Dentons Rodyk Singapore has a reputable and high-quality of partner in international arbitration.’

‘The individuals I have worked with in Dentons-Rodyk Singapore are exceptional.’ 

 

Duxton Hill Chambers

The team at Duxton Hill Chambersbrings extensive knowledge of substantive and procedural Singaporean law to the table’, acting on a wide range of cross-border arbitrations for domestic and international clients. The group practice, which comprises a number of individuals with advocacy experience who practice independently like a barristers' chambers, includes a number of highly commended individuals, including ‘exceptional advocateColin Liew, ‘standout practitioner' Chan Leng Sun SC, and ‘very talentedToby Landau KC. Jern-Fei Ng KC is highlighted as a ‘top-notch litigator’, and ‘master strategist’, and has vast experience across jurisdictions, as does Calvin Liang, who is ‘practical, thorough, and concise’.

Other key lawyers:

Colin Liew; Chan Leng Sun SC: Toby Landau KC; Jern-Fei Ng KC; Calvin Liang


Testimonials

‘Colin Liew is a formidable lawyer and very user-friendly.’

‘Colin Liew is an exceptional advocate who is able to digest the most complex of cases, I would highly recommend him. ’

‘Duxton Hill Chambers has a solid international arbitration practice, and brings extensive knowledge of substantive and procedural Singapore law to the table. ’

‘It is a pleasure to work with Calvin Liang. His input is practical, thorough, and concise. In his role as local counsel, Calvin has shared extensive knowledge of Singapore substantive and procedural law. His views on the broader strategy are very valuable, and demonstrate extensive experience in the field of international arbitration.’

‘Chan Leng Sun SC is a standout practitioner. He is a great strategist and he is able to work flexibly with instructing solicitors. ’

‘Colin Liew has an encyclopedic knowledge of the law. Toby Landau is very talented.’

‘Jern-Fei Ng KC is a top-notch litigator and master strategist who is able to map out the different steps and possibilities in the multiverse of complex litigation. Is the commander-in-chief in assembling the team of different advocates and solicitors to execute the strategy. A giant in the courtroom and arbitration room when submitting legal arguments and cross-examining witnesses.’

Mayer Brown

The international arbitration practice at Mayer Brown is reputed for its expertise in the energy sector, with LNG disputes, oil and gas, energy-related commodities, and power all key strengths of the area. The team offers full-service capabilities for its clients, acting across TMT, sports, media, hospitality, and defence industry disputes. Yu-Jin Tay is the head of the practice that notably includes Kay-Jannes Wegner and Paul Teo. The team continues to expand, with Kate Apotolova joining the practice from Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer in October 2022, and Matthew Shaw from DLA Piper in December 2022.

Practice head(s):

Yu-Jin Tay


Other key lawyers:

Kay-Jannes Wegner; Paul Teo; Kate Apotolova; Matthew Shaw


Key clients

National University of Singapore, Professor Ayelet Berman (Head of Global Health and Governance)


Work highlights


  • Advising a leading Asian LNG trader on an LNG-related dispute against its upstream LNG seller. The dispute relates to contested issues of force majeure invoked by the upstream LNG seller as a result of a force majeure event in the US.

Norton Rose Fulbright

Norton Rose Fulbright has ‘a diverse team with exceptional strengths and capabilities’ that has vast expertise across energy, infrastructure, telecoms, and investor-state disputes, frequently acting on complex multi-jurisdictional matters. Katie Chung is recognised for her ‘strategic acumen’ as well as ‘exceptional client communication and negotiation skills’, and leads the team that is commended for its ‘exceptional expertise, dedication to clients, and innovative problem-solving’. Kent Phillips joined the team from Hogan Lovells Lee & Lee in November 2023.

Practice head(s):

Katie Chung


Other key lawyers:

Kent Phillips


Testimonials

‘NRF has a wide range of capabilities available, and has proved to be able to coordinate those resources effectively.’

‘We work primarily with Katie Chung who has been very responsive and effective.’

‘This practice stands out due to its innovative approach to collaboration, cutting-edge technology integration, and a diverse team with exceptional strengths and capabilities. Potential clients would appreciate the practice’s commitment to personalized billing solutions and its track record of delivering exceptional results. Compared to other firms, this practice’s emphasis on diversity, technology, and collaborative methodologies sets it apart in the industry, making it a reliable and forward-thinking choice for clients seeking exceptional legal services.’

‘The individuals we work with stand out for their exceptional expertise, dedication to clients, and innovative problem-solving. Their unique blend of legal acumen, industry knowledge, and client-centric approach sets them apart from competitors. We value their strong work ethic, adaptability, and commitment to delivering outstanding results. Specific stand-out partner includes Katie Chung for their strategic acumen and for her exceptional client communication and negotiation skills.’

‘The NRF team have proven to be extremely responsive and cognizant of our needs from both a legal and commercial perspective. They have a superior appreciation of the unique cultural aspects of foreign client’s businesses and adapt their advice and delivery accordingly to most effectively achieve a positive outcome.’

‘Katie Chung in particular stands out as a remarkably devoted and extremely bright lawyer who selflessly ensures that critical legal advice is delivered timely and above and beyond the expected standards. Violet Huang is also an invaluable supporting associate on the NRF Singapore Team who complements the senior partners’ role there. ’

‘The team at Norton Rose Fulbright is a safe pair of hands when it comes to handling international arbitration cases. They work like a well-oiled machine and deliver very strong results for their clients. The hard work and dedication of the team is evident from the first interaction, and the team is relentless in coming up with multiple solutions to problems faced by their clients. The team is diverse, with members from the local bar in Singapore and international counsel, and this allows for a broad range of experience and expertise. ’

‘The most important difference between NRF team members and others is the level of dedication and hard work. In particular, Katie Chung is an exceptional lawyer and puts her heart and soul into her cases. She is relentless in assisting her clients with her superior legal acumen and extensive knowledge of Asian businesses. She is particularly strong with managing her cases end-to-end and delivers excellent results. As a leader, she is a mentor to her team members and one who is often considered a role model by many. ’

Key clients

NEPC Consortium Power Ltd (a subsidiary of Edra Global Energy Bhd)


Pinsent Masons MPillay

Pinsent Masons MPillay’s international arbitration practice is ‘incredibly strategic and thoughtful’, and at the forefront of disputes linked to commercial and financial matters. The team is jointly led by Sam Boyling and Alvin Ho, both with expertise in energy and infrastructure linked arbitration. Integral to the team is Toh Chen Han, a ‘tremendously gifted strategist’, Frédéric Gillion who ‘provides commercially and legally sensible advice to clients’, and Yong Neng Chan. At associate level ‘superstarWee Jian Ang  and ‘brilliantYap Chun Pin are noted.

Practice head(s):

Sam Boyling


Other key lawyers:

Alvin Ho; Toh Chen Han; Frederic Gillion; Yong Neng Chan; Wee Jian Ang; Yap Chun Pin


Testimonials

‘Pinsent Masons is very experienced as counsel in international arbitrations. Their cross-border team is very effectively staffed and their lawyers are legally and commercially strong across all levels of seniority. They are currently handling a set of proceedings that is factually, technically, and legally complex, involving expert reports numbering hundreds of pages and factual matters going back about a decade. However, they were able to quickly distill the key issues, digest this information, and formulate and execute an effective strategy going forward. ’

‘They are also incredibly strategic and thoughtful. They can anticipate the counter-party’s tactics, and always provide reasoned and honest assessments of the pros and cons of any one approach.’

‘The partner leading the file, Toh Chen Han, is a tremendously gifted strategist and can be counted on to provide creative, logical, effective, and commercially sensitive solutions.’

Key clients

Strabag International Gmbh


Razel-Bec


Petrofac International (UAE) LLC


Work highlights


  • Acted for a major Chinese contractor in a Singapore seated SIAC arbitration and related court proceedings arising out of substantial delay damages, variation claims, and a performance bond call on a combined cycle power plant project in Pakistan. This included successful hearings on novel issues of privilege over the evidence adduced, resulting in a reported judgment.

Reed Smith LLP

Reed Smith LLP’s international arbitration practice is a ‘class act’, that is commended for its ability to ‘work efficiently and promptly and deliver absolutely top-class results’. The team is noted for its capability in trading, commodities, and shipping work, along with extensive experience in energy and natural resources. ‘BrilliantTimothy Cooke is described by one client as ‘all class, all of the time’, and leads the team, with proficiency in private equity and energy-related disputes. Kohe Hasan is integral to the team along with Collin Seah and Bernard Yee. At associate level, Joyce Fong is also notable.

Practice head(s):

Timothy Cooke


Other key lawyers:

Kohe Hasan; Collin Seah; Bernard Yee; Joyce Fong


Testimonials

‘Timothy Cooke is the partner I have experience with. He is thoughtful, widely experienced, and mentally agile, at the same time with a sense of humour. He is a pleasure to work with, and someone who sees deeper into the issues at hand. ’

‘The Reed Smith International Arbitration team, headed up by Timothy Cooke, is a class act. They work efficiently and promptly and deliver absolutely top-class results. The diversity in their team is excellent, as is their depth. Their ability to handle cross-border arbitration matters, involving emerging market jurisdictions such as Vietnam, is superb.’

‘Timothy Cooke is not only a brilliant arbitration lawyer and advocate, but an exceedingly pleasant person with whom to deal. Timothy cuts through the guff and gets directly to the point. In my experience, Timothy has never wasted a single unit of billable time. Timothy is all class, all of the time.’

Work highlights


Stephenson Harwood LLP

Stephenson Harwood LLP is a notable firm for international arbitration in Singapore, with sector expertise in energy, construction, maritime, and international trade. The practice is especially knowledgeable in investor-state work and crypto-related arbitrations. At leadership level, Chris Bailey is a ‘great guy’, and described as ‘razor-sharp’. He is joined by Daryll Ng, John Simpson, and Michelle Yong, with expertise in the oil and gas sectors, restructuring and insolvency, and international trade disputes. Managing associate Rebecca Crookenden is noted, with experience across the full gamut of commercial disputes.

Practice head(s):

Daryll Ng; Chris Bailey; John Simpson; Michelle Yong


Other key lawyers:

Justin Gan; Rebecca Crookenden


Testimonials

‘We work with Christopher Bailey and his team: Rebecca Crookenden and Leila Parry. The team covers issues in both Singapore and London. The team has a great grasp of international law and international arbitration. They were successful in a large and complex investment arbitration and now do great work in the coordination of the recovery of the claim.’

‘Chris Bailey is a great guy, relaxed, friendly and accessible, but razor sharp. Rebecca Crookenden is one to watch, we would expect her to make further steps in the firm.’

 

Key clients

Berge Bulk Shipping and other major creditors


Volatility Token Master Fund


Work highlights


  • Instructed on an ethics wall basis by three major creditors of TPT Shipping, deploting two teams in Singapore to handle issues arising from the collapse of TPT Shipping in New Zealand.
  • Successfully represented Volatility Token Master Fund in a Singapore International Arbitration Centre arbitration and obtained a Final Award against EFC Foundation Ltd. for, amongst others, specific performance relief whereby EFC Foundation Ltd. was ordered to deliver up certain cryptocurrency tokens (worth about US$13 million at the cryptocurrency token’s peak price) to Volatility Token Master Fund.

Allen & Overy

The arbitration practice at Allen & Overy is ‘experienced, thorough, responsive, and effective’, advising on disputes across energy, construction, insurance, and banking and finance, with investment treaty arbitration another key focus of the team. The team has extensive geographical reach, acting for leading blue-chip clients in disputes across the region. Head of the team Sheila Ahuja is ‘hardworking, determined, and experienced in the field’, advising multinational corporations in both commercial and investor-state arbitrations. Christopher Mainwaring-Taylor is noted in the team, with expertise across energy, natural resources, power, and infrastructure-linked disputes.

Practice head(s):

Sheila Ahuja


Other key lawyers:

Chris Mainwaring-Taylor


Testimonials

‘The arbitration team under Sheila Ahuja is experienced, thorough, responsive, and effective. They have ready access to the legal and administrative support of A&O worldwide.’

‘Sheila Ahuja is a model of all that one wants in lead counsel in commercial arbitration: she is an excellent lawyer, hard working, determined, and experienced in the field. She is a first-rate advocate and deals with witnesses and the tribunal with an assured touch. She has that all too rare ability to ally her determination with reasonableness. She wins the trust of the Tribunal – a priceless asset.’

‘Sheila Ahuja is very smart and thorough – she picks up quickly on key issues, offers new perspectives, and is one of the best advocates in the market. ’

Key clients

BG Exploration and Production India Limited


Reliance Industries Limited


The Republic of Korea


Korea National Oil Company


Blackstone & Gold

Boutique firm Blackstone & Gold for one client, is the ‘holy grail for dispute resolution and arbitration in Singapore’ with the ‘right blend of commercial nous and arbitration experience’. Commodities disputes are a key strength of the practice, with the team well-versed in financing, trading, enforcement, and fraud-related disputes, in addition to crypto-related arbitrations. Baldev Bhinder is ‘the best commodities disputes lawyer in the market’, and is ‘fantastic for managing a team’. Key to the team is Raman Kaur, who is according to some the ‘most hard-working disputes lawyer you will ever meet’.

Practice head(s):

Baldev Bhinder


Other key lawyers:

Raman Kaur


Testimonials

‘Baldev Bhinder and his team are the holy grail for dispute resolution and arbitration in Singapore. They are lean, hard-working, and highly skilled. Baldev is fantastic at managing a team and is highly experienced. His raison d’etre is to get clients what they want how they want it. Ramandeep Kaur is the most hard-working disputes lawyer you will ever meet.’

‘Expert surgeons with the right blend of commercial nous and arbitration experience. They knew the right tool to use for every claim. Agile team which is very responsive to our needs. ’

‘Raman Kaur is also very hard-working and goes the extra mile for clients.’

‘Baldev Bhinder is exceptional, understands the practicalities of international trade, is well connected in the commodities market, knows the arbitration process inside and out, instinctively knows where the pressure points are, and can map out an effective strategy from the get-go.’

‘Baldev Bhinder is well known in the market for his commodities work and network. His understanding of international trade is second to none and he brings that expertise to any claim or arbitration.’

‘On multiple occasions, Baldev and Raman had gone the extra mile in giving their advice on matters that do not necessarily fall under their official scope of work. Their genuine desire to help us achieve a positive outcome makes working together a pleasure.’

‘Excellent team with deep knowledge of commodities disputes ’

‘Baldev Bhinder is the best commodities disputes lawyer in the market.’

Key clients

EFA Group


Avani Resources


MRI Group


NS Bluescope


Pertamina


Idemitsu International


Global Transit Trading


QBE Insurance


Work highlights


  • Advising and acting for a global insurance company in relation to numerous claims and investigations involving likely fraudulent and fictitious trades in the commodities market straddling court and arbitration proceedings with a total claim value in excess of $70m. The case involves novel points of law with respect to circular, financing or fictitious trades and whether they are covered under a trade credit policy.
  • Successfully acted for a Singapore commodities trader in SIAC proceedings against an Indonesian miner in respect of a novel issue as to which party should bear the loss for a third party hacking, spoofing and diversion of payment. The case involved a successful arbitration defence alongside ancillary court proceedings in Hong Kong for third party disclosure orders and Indonesian court proceedings for enforcement.
  • Advised a lender in respect of a global enforcement exercise against a shipping group including obtaining a UK freezing order alongside Singapore court proceedings in respect of diversion of trade finance loans in excess of $150m from various lenders.

CMS Cameron McKenna Nabarro Olswang (Singapore) LLP

CMS Cameron McKenna Nabarro Olswang (Singapore) LLP has an extensive geographical reach, acting on complex arbitrations across energy, infrastructure, and construction sectors. Technology, insurance, and life sciences are also key strengths of the practice. Lynette Chew leads the team alongside Kelvin Aw, who has almost three decades of relevant experience. Lakshanthi Fernando has a practice focusing on infrastructure and construction disputes, and Jonathan Warne is a key name in the team, acting as head of international disputes. At associate level, Asya Jamaludin is another notable name.

Practice head(s):

Lynette Chew; Kelvin Aw


Other key lawyers:

Lakshanthi Fernando; Jonathan Warne; Asya Jamaludin


Testimonials

‘A first class team of talented individuals led by the ever outstanding Jonathan Warne.’

‘Jonathan Warne is rightly regarded as one of the best litigators of his generation. Clever, quick to get to the point and to focus on what really matters, he has an easy manner which inspires confidence. A please to work with.’

‘Jonathan Warne is excellent’

‘This firm appear as counsel in large construction arbitrations. They are excellent, well-organised and worked very well together as a team. The entire team in at least one case was female attorneys, which is unusual in construction arbitrations. Anyone who has any doubt about the quality of female advocates in this traditionally male-dominated sector should meet this team. Superb. ’

‘Partners Lynette Chew and Asya Jamaludin. They are a superb team, assisted ably by Grace Lu. They know when to be aggressive, when to hold back, how to manage the case and the witnesses and experts, etc. All around expertise in the field is also evident. ’

‘This practice is well grounded in the law and has the advantage of being competent in bread and butter work as well as more complicated matters (which realistically is not always the case). As clients, we appreciate always being kept fully and promptly briefed.’

‘Other than the ease of working with Lynette Chew and Grace Lu, as already stated, we appreciate the appropriate and prompt updates as well as Lynette’s ability to come up with out of the box, elegant alternative ways of approaching situations and possible solutions.’

Key clients

SMM Pte Ltd (a subsidiary of Surbana Jurong Group)


Samsung C&T Corporation


Cluny Development Pte Ltd


WSP Consulting Pte Ltd


SP PowerGrid Limited


Work highlights


  • Representing Samsung C&T Corporation in an SIAC arbitration against a specialist mechanical and electrical sub-contractor in relation to a major mixed-use development being one of the largest shopping malls in Singapore.
  • Successfully represented and secured a comprehensive win for a top Korean construction and engineering conglomerate in Singapore seated ICC arbitration proceedings against its subcontractor for disputes in relation to and arising out of a mechanical and piping works subcontract at a combined-cycle power plant project in Jurong Island, Singapore.
  • Advising the successful claimant in a $5billion UNCITRAL arbitration award in enforcement proceedings in Singapore against a state entity, including the engagement of asset tracers to determine scope of enforcement.

Dunbar & Lim Chambers LLC

Recently established boutique firm Dunbar & Lim Chambers LLC, led by Simon Dunbar and Kevin Lim, has a ‘technically excellent’ international arbitration practice, boasting a ‘world-class arbitration practice in a boutique structure’. The founding partners are described as ‘advocates and arbitration specialists of the highest calibre’ and have vast experience in joint venture, energy, tech, and infrastructure disputes, representing state-owned entities in high-value disputes.

Practice head(s):

Simon Dunbar; Kevin Lim


Testimonials

‘The team is technically excellent and thinks strategically, to achieve great outcomes in an efficient and commercial manner, keeping client needs at the centre. The team is diverse and therefore able to effectively deal with global and cross-jurisdictional issues.’

‘Simon is one of the best lawyers I have ever worked with – he is exceptionally smart, very calm, responsive, organised, and hard working.’

Simon and Kevin are extremely diligent arbitration counsel, with strong strategic approach combining a big picture view and attention to detail, including quantum aspects of the case.’

Work highlights


  • Representing a North Asian conglomerate in an ICC arbitration in Singapore against an Indian listed company in relation to a joint venture dispute.
  • Representing two affiliates of a US multinational in an UNCITRAL arbitration in Singapore against an Asian power company, concerning misappropriation of technology under a licensing agreement.
  • Representing a North Asian conglomerate in an SIAC arbitration and a related Emergency Arbitration proceeding in Singapore against an Indian listed company in relation to a joint venture dispute.

HFW Singapore LLP

HFW Singapore LLP 's international arbitration practice has a strong presence in energy, resources, trade, commodities, and maritime work. The team has strong links to arbitration teams in other leading jurisdictions, adding to the cross-jurisdictional capabilities of the practice. Dual-qualified in England and Wales and Singapore, Chanaka Kumarasinghe leads the team, frequently leading on complex international arbitrations. He is joined at leadership level by Adam Richardson and Dan Perera. At associate level, Suzanne Meiklejohn, Justine Barthe-Dejean, and Sadhvi Mohindru are noted.

Practice head(s):

Chanaka Kumarasinghe; Adam Richardson; Dan Perera


Other key lawyers:

Suzanne Meiklejohn; Justine Barthe-Dejean; Sadhvi Mohindru


Key clients

White Oak Trade Finance LLC


InVivo Trading


Deepwater Australasia Pty. Ltd.


Vitol Asia Pte. Ltd.


Hartree Partners Singapore Pte Ltd


Petrolneos Trading Limited


Pavilion Energy Pte. Ltd.


JOVO Group/Singapore Carbon Hydrogen Energy Pte. Ltd.


Verra


Freepoint Commodities Pte. Ltd.


Jones Day

Jones Day‘s international arbitration practice is a strong choice for energy, oil & gas, mining, and infrastructure work, with members of the team further noted for their capability in manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and M&A work. Zachary Sharpe sits at the helm of the team, frequently representing clients across a range of jurisdictions on international arbitrations spanning engineering, oil and gas, and technology.

Practice head(s):

Zachary Sharpe


Work highlights


K&L Gates Straits Law LLC

K&L Gates Straits Law LLC boasts an ‘empathetic yet effective’ international arbitration practice, that provides ‘timely and practical advice’ for its clients. Investment treaty disputes under bilateral and multilateral investment treaties are a key area of focus for the team, which also has extensive experience in arbitrations related to M&A and shareholder disputes. Raja Bose acts as head of the team and has a wealth of experience across construction, infrastructure, and engineering matters. Integral to the team are Sreenivasan Narayanan, the managing partner of the Singapore office, and Valerie Ang.

Practice head(s):

Raja Bose


Other key lawyers:

Narayanan Sreeni SC; Valerie Ang


Testimonials

‘We always get timely and practical advice.’

‘Narayanan Sreeni SC is good on commercial disputes and strategies. ’

‘The team is empathetic yet effective. ’

Key clients

Hyundai Global Service Singapore Pte Ltd


Work highlights


  • Representing Hyundai Global Service Singapore Pte Ltd in back-to-back SCMA arbitrations involving the seller and the buyer, where our client acted as an intermediary sleeving party for a sale and purchase of approximately 650 MT of VLSFO 0.5%. The dispute involves an alleged off-specification of the fuels delivered by the seller.

Linklaters

The international arbitration practice at Linklaters is noted for its capability in domestic and multi-jurisdictional commercial arbitration and investment arbitration. The team enjoys a strong reputation in multiple fields, acting across a wide range of sectors including private equity, energy, infrastructure, and technology. Jelita Pandjaitan is the head of the team, with particular knowledge of financial and energy-related arbitrations. The group continues to expand, with the arrival of Rebecca James from the firm's London office in November 2022, and Andrew Battisson from Norton Rose Fulbright in June 2023. At counsel level, Hansel Ng is ‘outstanding’.

Practice head(s):

Jelita Pandjaitan


Other key lawyers:

Rebecca James; Andrew Battisson


Testimonials

‘Great small team’

‘Hansel Ng is outstanding.’

 

LVM Law Chambers LLC

LVM Law Chambers LLC has a ‘very sharp and solution-oriented’ international arbitration team that acts on a wide range of complex commercial disputes, across a range of sectors. Shipping, insurance, aviation, and transport are all key strengths of the team. Joint managing partner of the team Joseph Lee is the head of the practice, with a wealth of experience across sectors. Mohd Haireez is reputed for his work on international trade and shipping-related disputes.

Other key lawyers:

Mohd Haireez; Benjamin Ow


Testimonials

‘I would describe the team as very sharp and solution oriented. They comprehend the issues quickly and give right direction to the client. We don’t have to struggle in explaining the matter as the team is skilled in handling contract and trade related disputes. ’

‘Mohd Haireez is a very sharp lawyer. The quality of work we receive from his team is quite impressive. It is the attention to details, and we can always see the value addition from his end.

‘We have been interacting with Benjamin Ow for over a year now and he has shown immense ability to comprehend our issues quickly and always shown impeccable work. ’

 

Key clients

Fajarbaru Builders Sdn Bhd


Work highlights


  • Acting for Fajarbaru Bulders Sdn Bhd against an individual to enforce an arbitral award obtained from Malaysia in Singapore.
  • Acting for a health supplement company against a multinational health supplement company in a franchise dispute worth USD 50 to 100 million.
  • Acting for a woodchip supply company against its purchaser in contractual disputes worth a total of about USD 90 million.

Mishcon de Reya LLP

Mishcon de Reya LLP has a ‘nimble team’ that is commended for its ‘first-hand know-how on how to deal with crypto disputes’. The ‘small but well-regarded arbitration team’ has expertise across a range of industries, including energy, fintech, and cryptocurrency. International trade and investor-state disputes are both key areas of focus for the practice. ‘Seasoned arbitration lawyerGavin Margetson leads the team, bringing two decades of relevant experience. ‘Personable and very pragmaticHenry Winter is an ‘exceptional talent’, specializing in cross-border arbitrations. At associate level, Daniel Ng is recommended.

Practice head(s):

Gavin Margetson; Henry Winter


Testimonials

‘Nimble team with regional experience and first hand knowhow on how to deal with crypto disputes/asset recovery. ’

‘Henry Winter is a known name in the arbitration space. Personable and very pragmatic ’

‘Gavin Margetson is outstanding arbitration lawyer with a very good feel for commercial law matters. He is very good with clients.’

Key clients

Minor Hotels Group


AK Jensen


Coda Payments


QBE Insurance (Singapore) Pte Ltd


MHG IP (Singapore) Pte Ltd


Work highlights


Morgan Lewis Stamford LLC

The practice at Morgan Lewis Stamford LLC is ‘dedicated, very smart, and provides good advice’ for its clients, routinely acting on high-value and complex disputes, including bet-the company arbitrations. Fraud-related arbitrations are another strength of the practice, which is highly reputed for its focus on international trade and maritime law. Wendy Tan is ‘sharp and fast’ and sits as head of the team. Tan regularly leads on many of the mandates undertaken by the practice. Pardeep Khosa is noted, having joined the firm from Davinder Singh Chambers in October 2022 with a client roster consisting of governments, listed companies, and high net-worth individuals.

Practice head(s):

Wendy Tan; Pardeep Khosa


Testimonials

‘The team is dedicated, very smart, and provides good advice.’

‘Very versatile area of law, respectful to clients and always updating clients so that they are not kept in the dark.’

‘Wendy Tan and her team comprising of Kelley Wong and Terry Xu had been exceptional in an international arbitration matter. Ms Wendy Tan has the ability to explain complex legal concepts clearly and concisely. She was always mindful to be respectful to clients and let them finish before explaining the legal consequences or legal strategy. Her team did an excellent job in drafting the pleadings.’

Key clients

PetroChina International (Singapore)


Thaumas Marine Ltd


China Merchants Energy Trading


Chimbusco International Petroleum (Singapore) Pte Ltd


COSCO Group – Cosco Petroleum Pte Ltd and Sinfeng Marine Services Pte Ltd


Coastal Energy Solutions Pte Ltd


Clean Marine AS


Starryway Trading and Shipping Company Limited


Shook Lin & Bok LLP

The international arbitration practice at Shook Lin & Bok LLP acts across a wide range of industries, notably including banking and financial disputes, credit insurance, shipping, energy, fraud, and white-collar crime. Sarjit Singh Gill SC is the head of the team, with a practice focusing on corporate and commercial, banking, and shareholder disputes, along with being well-versed in professional negligence and fraud work. Probin Dass and Moses Lin are key to the team, with expertise in shipping and commodities. David Chan is another notable name in the team.

Practice head(s):

Sarjit Singh Gill SC; David Chan


Work highlights


  • Successfully acted for a local bank in an arbitration claim against credit insurers.
  • Acting for a Hong Kong subsidiary of a listed Chinese company to reclaim a US$10 million deposit placed with a Seychelles-incorporated company in relation to an infrastructure project in Indonesia.
  • Acting for the liquidator of two related commodities trading companies, part of a larger commodities trading group of companies, in claims against a credit insurer for non-payment of credit insurance claims amounting to US$22.5m.

Sidley Austin LLP

The practice at Sidley Austin LLP has ‘great experience in investment arbitrations‘, acting on high-value, cross-border mandates. Blue-chip clients, governments, and multinational corporations all rely on the expertise of the team in many industries, including life sciences, energy, technology, and shipping. The ‘extremely talented, charismatic, and brilliant‘ New York-qualified Tai-Heng Cheng leads the team, and is a ‘very effective advocate who reads the tribunal well‘. Jennifer Lim  and Meera Rajah  are other key names in the team.

Practice head(s):

Tai-Heng Cheng


Other key lawyers:

Jennifer Lim; Meera Rajah


Testimonials

‘Sidley Austin is a blue chip dispute resolution and international arbitration practice and is led by the extremely talented, charismatic, and brilliant Tai-Heng Cheng.’

‘Tai-Heng Cheng is the consummate lawyer. Highly intelligent and formidable, he is world-class. Puts his heart into an assignment and is a very effective advocate who reads the tribunal well. A great person to have in your corner in any complex dispute.’

‘Tai-Heng Cheng is well-versed in international arbitration and has great experience in investment arbitrations’

‘Sidley Austin provides prompt and excellent service.’

‘Partners Tai Heng-Chang and Jennifer Lim are highly recommended and very easy to work with.’

Key clients

I-Mab Biopharma Co., Ltd.


PACC Offshore Services Holdings (POSH)


PT J ResourcesNusantara


Tennor Holding B.V. (Lars Windhorst)


Work highlights


  • Successfully represented PACC Offshore Services Holdings (POSH), part of the Kuok Group of Singapore, in an investment treaty arbitration against Mexico, administered by ICSID under the UNCITRAL Rules, in connection with the expropriation of claimant’s investment in the Mexican offshore marine services industry.
  • Successfully represented PT J Resources Nusantara in a US$600 million SIAC arbitration against another Indonesian company Pani Bersama Tambang (PBT), a subsidiary of Indonesia’s Merdeka Copper Gold and secured a swift and favourable outcome for our client.
  • Successfully represented life sciences company I-Mab Biopharma Co., Ltd. (“I-Mab”), a public company based in China and the U.S., in a multi-year long, hard fought, nine-figure international arbitration against Tracon Pharmaceuticals (“Tracon”).

Squire Patton Boggs

Squire Patton Boggs has a ‘cohesive and very hard-working’ international arbitration practice, with expertise across international commercial and investment treaty arbitrations, as well as public international law disputes. Energy, shipping, commodities, and infrastructure are particular areas of focus of the team. At leadership level, Rodman Bundy is a ‘great advocate and brilliant strategist’, and is head of the ‘team of great partners and associates’ along with Barry Stimpson, who brings expertise in energy and commodities. Also highly active in the commodities space is Chris Swart. The team continues to expand with the arrival of Joel Cockerell from HFW Singapore LLP in August 2022, and associate Arnavi Panda from Mills & Co in May 2023.

Practice head(s):

Barry Stimpson; Rodman Bundy


Other key lawyers:

Chris Swart; Joel Cockerell; Arnavi Panda; Christopher Bloch


Testimonials

‘The team has grown significantly since they started up in c. 2019 – building a team of great partners and associates.

They are very good at distilling highly complex issues into robust arguments and positions to support clients in front of tribunals.’

They work seamlessly across offices and have the ability to call on some very specialized teams who are global leaders (specifically thinking for investor state or gas pricing matters). Very user friendly experience. ’

‘Rod Bundy: great advocate and brilliant strategist. Chris Bloch: the engine room for all the disputes he is engaged (both in Singapore and more generally), great legal mind that also considers commercial aspects of decisions / strategy. Very articulate and super sharp.

‘Other great support comes from Angela Yap and Alvin Yap. ’

‘The team is cohesive and very hard working. They roll their sleeves up and get into the detail yet remain strategic and nimble.’

Key clients

Government of Guatemala


Government of Bolivia


Southern Solar Power Ltd


Work highlights


  • Advising several Asian gas buyers and public utilities in a series of gas price review negotiations and arbitrations.
  • Representing the local subsidiary of SunEdison Inc, an American renewable energy company, in two parallel proceedings related to the development of a large-scale, grid-tied solar power project in Bangladesh; the dispute arose in relation the allegedly improper termination of a power purchase agreement, allegedly in the wake of refugees from Myanmar entering Bangladesh.
  • Representing the Government of Guatemala in a case before the International Court of Justice against the Government of Belize concerning centuries-old boundary dispute.

Three Crowns LLP

The ‘excellent, reliable, efficient and professional legal team’ at Three Crowns LLP represents leading Asian and global companies in complex disputes, with particular expertise in energy, construction, financial services, and the investment treaty sectors. Daryl Chew and Simon Elliot lead the practice, and are commended for their ‘excellent understanding of the commercial issues facing both owners and contractors’.

Practice head(s):

Daryl Chew; Simon Elliot


Other key lawyers:

Shaun Pereira; Penny Martin


Testimonials

‘Three Crowns LLP is very experienced in the international arbitration. They know exactly what they are doing based on their experience. The tell us what needs to be done and even prepare the legal product. this is very helpful for the client since usually we are not familiar with the arbitration process.’

‘Daryl Chew and Shaun Pereira work very well together. They are very experienced and they understand what the client wants. They also prepare the strategy for the clients so that the client can achieve their goals.’

‘The firm tends to use a higher partner to associate ratio than other comparable firms, but the partners are all “working” lawyers and thus bring real value for money to the client. The team have very complementary skills, particularly in respect of complex construction disputes, and there is a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities from both and owner’s and contractor’s perspective.’

‘Both Daryl Chew and Simon Elliott have significant experience of the resolution of disputes in EPC contracts for major energy and infrastructure projects. They also have an excellent understanding of the commercial issues facing both owners and contractors and have are able to develop innovative solutions that present opportunities for amicable settlement while retaining a strong position in the event disputes go to arbitration.’

‘Excellent, reliable, efficient and professional legal team with attention to detail and a commercial, pragmatic approach. Hardworking and responsive team consisting of highly skilled and knowledgeable lawyers with excellent reputation in their field who care about providing high-quality advice and representation in all legal matters.’

‘Simon Elliot and Etienne Vimal du Monteil are outstanding, excellent, efficient and very talented arbitration lawyers. They are problem solvers and original thinkers providing confidence to their clients. They have high expertise and knowledge of all key legal areas delivering quality advice on time, highly collaborative and always available to discuss any issue arising.’

‘The team showed impressive skill in picking up technical engineering concepts that were crucial to the case. The organization inside the legal team was streamlined so each member would we the most efficient. Their efficient use of modern IT infrastructure was also key to efficient tasks distribution.’

‘I was mostly involved with Shaun Pereira who was at the same time able to grasp the technical fine points, but also make sure that we (non-legal people) were able to follow the process and understand the key legal aspects.’

Key clients

Petronas


Elliot Associates


Trafigura


TotalEnergies


Sacyr


Guardian Holdings


BP


Work highlights


  • Representing Greek industrial conglomerate Mytilineos in a €500m construction dispute relating to a new hybrid power plant in Algeria.
  • Representing Sacyr in its $1bn treaty claim against the Republic of Panama under the Spain-Panama BIT relating to the Third Set of Locks expansion for the Panama Canal.