With extensive experience in handling cross-border commercial arrangements, the team at RIAA BARKER GILLETTE is sought after for its ability to close complex transactions. The group has particular expertise in supporting clients with greenfield and brownfield investments, advising local and international companies on commercial agreements, including financial contacts, enabling the team to undertake various cross-border matters. Its clients include entrepreneurs, companies, and non-profits entities, among others. Ahsan Zahir Rizvi, who is currently based in London, is noted for his comprehensive knowledge of the corporate and commercial landscape, advising on financial restructuring and privatisation matters. Bilal Shaukat is another leading member, with expertise in conventional and Islamic finance agreements. Yousaf Khosa is a key contact for matters involving oil and gas, while Mazhar Bangash provides expertise in international trade and trade remedies. Momin Taufiq is another key name.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
'RIAA Barker Gillette has a great team of young lawyers. Their distinction is being young, energetic and disciplined and that enormously helps in managing the litigations and other assignments.'
'The partners brings extensive expertise, proven judgement, and client-focused leadership to the practice. Clients benefit from the direct involvement of a senior partner in strategy and execution, while routine tasks are handled cost-effectively by associates who are being rigorously trained in line with the firm’s standards. The combination ensures quality control, efficiency, and competitive pricing.'
'Mazhar Bangash is well experienced in this area. He is very smart and is easy to communicate and grasp the key point in each case.'
'Team is very capable, responsive and effective.'
‘We have cooperated with RIAA BARKER GILLETTE for a long time, and it is our first choice of Pakistan cooperating team in international trade and Corporate and M&A area.'
'The team is very professional and well experienced. It also has very good relationship with the investigation authority.'
Key clients
- Commerzbank AG
- M/s Total Energies Marketing Services
- Thal Limited
- JCM Power Pakistan (SMC-Private) Limited
- Omni Power Private Limited
- BYD Auto Industry Company Limited
- Investeringsfonden for Udviklingslande
- Bank of Azad Jammu and Kashmir
- All Pakistan Paper Merchants Association
- Pakistan Yarn Merchants Association
- Fujian Youyi Adhesive Tape Group Co., Ltd.
- Pakistan Regional Economic Integration Activity and USAID
Work highlights
Advising the Bank of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (Bank of AJK) as part of a consortium on its expansion into Pakistan through the establishment of a scheduled commercial bank.
Advised Commerzbank AG on the establishment of its liaison office in Pakistan, including advising on regulatory guidance and coordination with key authorities, including the Board of Investment, State Bank of Pakistan, and Ministry of Interior.
Advised Muller & Phipps (Private) Limited and its Affiliates on the acquisition of Novartis Pharma Pakistan Limited through an auctioned sale.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Ahsan Zahir Rizvi; Bilal Shaukat; Yousaf Khosa; Mazhar Bangash
Other key lawyers
Momin Taufiq