
Norton Rose Fulbright’s banking and finance team in Tokyo stands out for its shipping and project finance expertise. Practice head George Gibson has over three decades of experience in the financing, acquisition, and disposal of infrastructure and energy-related projects. Paul Coggins leads the firm’s maritime practice, primarily advising commercial banks, ECAs, and sponsors on the financing of ships and offshore units. Akihiko Takamatsu’s varied practice covers asset finance, structured finance, and insolvency matters. Mai Tezuka is also noted for her aviation and maritime finance experience.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
- Profile
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Paul Coggins is personable and reliable and has a wide range of knowledge.'
‘George Gibson is always reliable and provides us with lots of great advice with a strong sense of hospitality.'
'The team offers expertise covering various fields.'
'There is good collaboration between the deals and insolvency teams, and also the local (Tokyo) and NY practices.'
Key clients
- Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Bank, Limited
- Marubeni Corporation
- ING Bank
- Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC)
- JERA
- Mitsubishi Corporation
- Mitsui & Co., Ltd.
- Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd.
- Mizuho Bank
- MUFG Bank
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Next generation partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
George Gibson
Other key lawyers
Paul Coggins; Akihiko Takamatsu; Mai Tezuka