Projects & Energy: International
Asia-Pacific Guide 2025 : Japan
Band 1
Email address
[email protected]Contact number
+81 3 6438 5200Chambers Review
A&O Shearman has a highly respected team of lawyers in Tokyo, frequently instructed by major Japanese lenders and sponsors, as well as prominent borrowers, on the financing of power, mining and LNG projects across Asia and Australia. The team also has deep ties to the biggest ECAs in Japan and South Korea and is adept at handling international solar and offshore wind projects. The law firm leverages its strong Singapore office to provide support for major infrastructure projects throughout the region, and also leverages its strong global presence to represent East Asian lenders and sponsors in projects as far afield as the Middle East and Africa.
Work Highlights
- A&O Shearman advised the lenders to CSN Mineração on the financing of the construction of an iron ore pellet feed production plant in Brazil.
Strengths
Provided by Chambers
"Their legal expertise is complemented by diplomatic skills and excellent contacts."
"A&O Shearman has a strong bench of experienced and junior practitioners across Japanese and English law."
"Their legal expertise is complemented by diplomatic skills and excellent contacts."
"A&O Shearman has a strong bench of experienced and junior practitioners across Japanese and English law."
Notable Practitioners
Matthias Voss comes highly recommended for his expertise in project finance matters, offering particular knowledge of LNG projects. He has experience acting on projects across the region.
"Matthias is one of the most experienced, diplomatic, collaborative and fair lawyers I know."
Scott Neilson is a seasoned lawyer in Japan who has a stellar reputation for his work on both domestic and international project development and financing mandates. He also offers significant experience in energy sector investments, advising on both inbound and outbound transactions.
"Scott Neilson manages the team well and provides us with strong support."
Akira Takahashi is a counsel at A&O Shearman who assists clients on matters involving the financing of projects, including renewables and LNG.
"Akira Takahashi is very strong in every aspect."
"He demonstrates commercial acuity in challenging situations and is able to help both domestic and international counterparties come around to a common solution."
Hitomi Komachi offers extensive experience in financings for energy-related projects, including renewable energy projects and petrochemical projects. Her expertise is often sought by Japanese financial entities.
"We were impressed by her ability to drive the negotiation with the counterparty."
Xue Wang advises a range of international clients on the financing of energy and infrastructure projects, and exhibits experience in the LNG and power sectors.
"Xue Wang is experienced in this type of transaction and has a good sense of the commercial issues."