Akin‘s international trade practice is often engaged on the negotiation of transactions affected by sanctions, as well as issues relating to compliance, investigations and enforcement matters. Practice co-chair Jasper Helder – ’an absolute authority in his domain” – is a key contact for UK, EU and US trade compliance matters involving enforcement actions and other regulatory scrutiny. Fellow practice co-chair Chiara Klaui – regarded by one client as ‘truly outstanding’ – regularly advises EU, UK and Swiss clients on trade compliance. In September 2024, the team was strengthened by the arrival of Ross Denton, highly experienced in international trade compliance.
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Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Very knowledgeable, pragmatic and client-focused. Great understanding of the industries in which clients operate in order to tailor advice to that required for a specific issue/opportunity. Robust coverage of a range of jurisdictions using a one-stop shop principle.’
‘Excellent knowledge in sanctions and export controls, very quick and practical advice. Very reasonable approach to risks.’
‘We have been working with Chiara Klaui for several years on EU and UK sanctions and export controls. She is truly outstanding. The advice is always straight to the point and practical. She explains everything so clearly making it easy to implement. Often we get instant advice, unlike from some competitors that first need to discuss internally, research, etc. Chiara is truly one of the best professionals in the sanctions area.'
'Jasper Helder provides very clear advice and has a good balance in terms of risks. He is one of the most experienced lawyers in the field. ’
‘We have worked with Jasper Helder, an absolute authority in his domain. Jasper is a fast and creative thinker who does not shy away to get into the practical side of things. His assistance was crucial in navigating one of the most complex cases our company has dealt with in the past decade.’
‘Jasper Helder is an absolute expert on sanctions and FDI matters. ’
Key clients
- VEON
- Nexperia
- Ad hoc Group of Ozon bondholders
- ExxonMobil
- COFCO
- Intel Corporation
- Juniper Networks
- Nike
- Royal Boskalis Westminster N.V.
- Van Oord Dredging and Marine Contractors
Work highlights
- Advising VEON on a debt restructuring involving many Russian (sanctioned) debt holders in order to enable a divestment of its Russian subsidiary.
- Assisting Japan Tobacco International with global sanctions and trade compliance counsel.
- Assisting Fortenova with an innovative financial restructuring of a debt portfolio including Russian banks under EU, UK and US sanctions.
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
Jasper Helder; Chiara Klaui
Other key lawyers
Ross Denton