Akin ‘has in-depth knowledge across the board on all WTO matters’, with its WTO work forming part of a broader international trade and regulatory practice that also covers sanctions, export controls and trade compliance. The team is led by Alan Yanovich, who provides ’essential’ counsel to governments on trade disputes and other complex issues under WTO rules. He is supported by Hannes Sigurgeirsson, who is well-versed in WTO law and dispute settlement, as well as Jasper Helder and Chiara Klaui, both of whom offer deep experience in EU and UK trade matters, sanctions and export controls.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction: Lawyer & team quality
Client satisfaction: Billing & efficiency
Client satisfaction: Sector knowledge
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Akin’s WTO practice is hands down the best in Geneva. They are very plugged in, host great events with insiders and offer excellent thought leadership insights.’ \n‘Alan Yanovich is a standout partner for his ability to connect clients with policymakers and key players in the trade space. His counsel is essential to my ability to understand what is going on in the trade space.’ \n‘Alan Yanovich has a very broad range of experience and combines thorough academic knowledge of the law with an excellent grasp of the practicalities of each situation.’ \n‘The team has in-depth knowledge across the board on all WTO matters and its advice is tailored to the needs of clients, taking into account their interests. It offers a range of options based on its knowledge and experience.’ \n‘Alan Yanovich provides a comprehensive service with valuable information and insights around the clock. He understands the information needed by clients and how it can affect decision-making, and provides this nonstop.’ \n‘Excellent support. Alan Yanovich has great and useful experience. Very empathetic and super quick in answering questions. Well supported by Hannes Sigurgeirsson when needed.’
Key clients
- Government of Korea, Ministry of Trade, Economy and Industry
- Government of Japan, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry
- Ministry of Trade of Costa Rica
- Ministry of Economy of the United Arab Emirates
- Republic of Uzbekistan
Work highlights
Advised the Government of South Korea, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry on a broad range of WTO and other international trade issues in relation to potential WTO litigation, bilateral negotiations and multilateral discussions.
Worked with Government of Japan, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry on a number of WTO and international trade issues.
Advised the UAE Ministry of Economy on its free trade agreement program, including negotiations with a range of key trading partners.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Alan Yanovich
Other key lawyers
Jasper Helder; Chiara Klaui; Hannes Sigurgeirsson