Bustamante Fabara‘s team ’is distinguished by its deep knowledge of the hydrocarbon sector and its strategic focus on mitigating regulatory and contractual risks’. While the group concentrates on oil and gas, it has also expanded its workload into hydrocarbons and solar energy. Practice head Rafael Valdivieso focuses on the downstream and upstream segments, and has ‘in-depth knowledge of the oil industry, especially participation contracts’. Gustavo Almeida, a key team member who was promoted to director in April 2025, adeptly handles a variety of matters in the hydrocarbons and electricity sectors, and often advises on services contracts within oil production and electricity projects, including hydroelectricity. Bruno Pesantes, who was also made director in April 2025, is a key contact for mining projects.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'The energy team at Bustamante Fabara is exceptional. One of their greatest advantages is that they are a multidisciplinary team, spanning all energy industries. Despite being a small team, they meet clients' expectations, which also makes them unique, as it is not necessary to have multiple lawyers to accomplish the same goal. Furthermore, one of their strengths is the punctuality and precision of each of their actions. Furthermore, their entire team is prepared to handle the most uncomfortable and difficult situations in a friendly and respectful manner, always meeting client expectations.'
- 'The advantage that makes them stand out the most is their multidisciplinary team. At the helm, Rafael Valdivieso Eguiguren, while leading all areas, has in-depth knowledge of the oil industry, especially participation contracts. This makes him the ideal lawyer to participate in the negotiation with the State. On the other hand, Gustavo Almeida Oleas, senior associate, is one of the few lawyers with experience and knowledge of the electricity sector in the country. His diligence and attention to detail make his work stand out and generate trust among clients. Bruno Pesantes, senior associate, is a key member of the team. He is a diligent lawyer with extensive knowledge of the mining sector. One of his best characteristics is his immediate availability and friendliness with clients. Last but not least, Analía Andrade de Piérola stands out for working cross-functionally with all team members, which gives her knowledge of all areas. Analía is diligent, approachable, and collaborative.'
- 'For us, an important part of the legal practice is identifying risks before they become major problems. In addition to being multidisciplinary, which requires a wide range of skills and knowledge, the Bustamante Fabara team competes with the largest law firms in the country.'
- 'They have efficient and clear processes, which makes the advice immediate. They know our business, so the legal advice is aligned with our objectives.'
- 'Bustamante Fabara team is very solid, with lawyers with extensive experience and multiple specialisations, which facilitated rapid response to problems that required multiple perspectives, allowing the company to make strategic decisions in a timely manner. The interaction between teams has always been optimal, providing a swift response to our requests or clarifications. I believe the firm's differentiating factor is its diverse professional team and swift response, with a speed above the national average.'
- 'The Oil & Gas industry requires a highly specialised level of knowledge. In this regard, Bustamante's lawyers have demonstrated experience and expertise superior to those of their competitors. Their outstanding handling of government procedures has significantly facilitated the obtaining of approvals, negotiations, and agreements that, with other firms, would have taken much longer. I would like to highlight the excellent work of Rafael Valdivieso and Gustavo Almeida. Without a doubt, the Bustamante team has been a key ally in the success of this project.'
Key clients
- Exploraciones Mineras Andinas Ecuador Emsaec
- Hidrosierra
- Primax
- Enap Sipec
- Frontera Energy
- World Kinect Energy Services (formerly World Fuel Services)
- Solaris Resources
- Amara NZero
- The Nature Conservancy
- Silver Crown Royalties
- Petrobell
Work highlights
Assisted Aramco Trading Americas with a review of the Ecuadorian legal framework applicable to the carriage of hydrocarbons by sea, to and from Ecuador, the general environmental liability regime, and the special marine pollution provisions.
Advised Primax on the acquisition of the second largest downstream company, Terpel, and in all its business in Ecuador, including 107 fuel service stations.
Advised EMSAEC on all regulatory matters, including everyday issues, and specifically in the elaboration of a complex matrix of all regulatory risk.
Lawyers
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Rafael Valdivieso