CMS Grau’s ‘comprehensive and versatile’ infrastructure and projects team advises on all stages of project development, covering design, regulatory compliance, financing, contracts and construction. Commended for his ’excellent knowledge of the sector’, practice co-lead Giancarlo Villafranqui draws on experience in the public sector to provide counsel on PPPs, concessions and investment projects. Fellow co-head Miguel Viale, a natural resources and infrastructure specialist, advises on project finance and cross-border M&A. Among the firm’s key professionals are also Juan José Hopkins, noted for his vast experience in the financing of infrastructure projects; Nestor Shimabukuro, who specialises in PPPs, private initiatives and concessions, among other key areas; and Ramon Huapaya, whose practice centres on infrastructure, public services regulation and concessions. At the associate level, key contacts include seniors Cinthia Canepa, who assists with financing transactions, and Oscar Alejos, who regularly advises energy, telecoms and transport concessionaires, as well as public contractors, construction companies and public entities on public procurement and PPPs. The practice group has been further strengthened by the June 2025 hire of former Rubio Leguía Normand partner Julio Vidal, who arrived with senior associate Evelyn Román, and associates Tais Rabanal and Fernanda Paz.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘They are a firm that always thinks of the client and not of their billing. They have great expertise in any matter related to projects and infrastructure.'
- ‘The added value is their knowledge of the market, the dedication of the partners, and their experience in Peru in both the public and private sectors. Their writing is very objective, and they always advise with the client’s best interest in mind.'
- ‘The practice of CMS GRAU is unique for its quality and its capacity to adapt to the needs of the sector.’
- ‘Giancarlo Villafranqui is a man of integrity and stands out for his excellence and knowledge.’
- ‘The practice is comprehensive and versatile.’
- ‘Giancarlo Villafranqui has excellent knowledge of the sector, not only in regulatory matters, but he also keeps fully up to date with the developments of different initiatives, tenders, and projects.’
- ‘The team’s strengths are their multidisciplinary expertise and flexibility, both in the provision of services and in the way they structure their fees, adapting at all times to the client’s needs.’
- ‘They are a very agile and versatile firm. Giancarlo Villafranqui is an excellent lawyer with extensive experience in infrastructure projects. He offers solutions not only from a legal perspective but also from a business standpoint, which is highly valued in our sector.’
Key clients
- Equans Perú
- Concesionaria de Colegios de Alto Rendimiento
- Consorcio Ruesma
- Concesionaria de Proyectos de Infraestructura
- Benito Roggio Transporte
- Autopista del Norte
- S.A. de Obras y Servicios (COPASA)
- Activos Mineros
- Transporte Urbano de Lima (Línea 1 de Metro)
- Aleatica
Work highlights
Advised Equans Perú on the structuring and submission process for the Villa El Salvador Emergency Hospital concession valued at $290m.
Advised Concesionaria de Colegios de Alto Rendimiento on the execution of the COAR Centro concession contract.
Advised Autopista del Norte on the execution of the Red Vial N° 4 concession.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
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
Giancarlo Villafranqui; Miguel Viale
Other key lawyers
Nestor Shimabukuro; Ramon Huapaya; Cinthia Canepa; Oscar Alejos; Julio Vidal; Evelyn Román; Tais Rabanal; Fernanda Paz