The Clifford Chance foreign trade team advises multinational corporations, financial investors and sovereign states on international transactions, complex regulatory review procedures and global trade challenges. Jointly led by Marc Besen, Thomas Voland, Dimitri Slobodenjuk and Moritz Keller, the practice is particularly recognised for their strength at the intersection of investment control, foreign subsidies, sanctions, export control and ESG-driven supply chain compliance. Voland brings extensive expertise in ESG, sustainability and public policy, often shaping debates on the German Supply Chain Act and the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive. Keller is highly regarded for his experience in investment arbitration and treaty disputes, frequently representing states and corporations in complex proceedings. Slobodenjuk brings authority on foreign direct investment control and antitrust law, while Besen contributes comprehensive competition law expertise for high stakes trade-related transactions.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'High level expertise, highly recommended.'
- 'Thomas Voland always provides excellent legal advice, well respected in the industry and among clients.'
Key clients
- Energy Transition Minerals Ltd.
- Haier
- Merck
- Republic of Croatia
- Republic of Serbia
- Republic of Slovenia
- United Parcel Service Inc.
Work highlights
Advising Merck on merger control and foreign trade law aspects of its proposed acquisition of Unity-SC, a French supplier of measurement and testing equipment for the semi-conductor industry.
Advising a battery manufacturer on two projects for the procurement of battery raw materials, including advice on compliance in the supply chain.
Representing the Republic of Slovenia in negotiations and arbitration proceedings under the Energy Charter Treaty and potentially other bilateral investment treaties against an energy exploration and production company.
Practice head
Marc Besen; Thomas Voland; Dimitri Slobodenjuk; Moritz Keller
Other key lawyers
Caroline Scholke; Arne Gayk