Balsanyda & Asociados' esteemed practice boasts particular expertise in shipping and shipping finance. The team is active in commercial and tourist shipping and is recognised for its strength in insurance, finance and corporate structuring. Its client roster consists of international shipping companies, ship brokers and protecting agents, as well as port operators and cruise liners. Balsanyda & Asociados' lawyers also have notable experience advising on the establishment of joint ventures on the island, domiciliation of holding companies and assisting international airlines with licences to operate commercial flights to and from Cuba.

Senior statesperson Ydael León comes highly recommended by market commentators due to his wide-ranging expertise in the shipping, transportation, importation and foreign investment arenas. An interviewee declares: "He is one of the most brilliant legal minds." Another observer states: "Ydael León is a standout lawyer in Cuba."

Stellar practitioner Boris Florit Quero boasts a market-leading practice advising clients on maritime law as well as across corporate mandates. His practice encompasses a wide range of sectors including shipping, insurance and finance, as well as aviation and biotechnology. An impressed interviewee states: "Boris Florit Quero is a highly prominent commercial lawyer in the Cuban legal market." A different observer highlights his activity in the market and adds: "He is an excellent lawyer."

Active practitioner Lenia Labarta is well placed to assist many of the firm's key international clients with insurance claims and charter party disputes. She is a former in-house lawyer at a major Cuban shipping company. A market commentator notes: "Lenia Labarta is a strong lawyer who stands out in the sector."

Up-and-coming practitioner Alex Chiang offers a strong maritime practice advising clients on the buying, selling and registration of vessels. He is also well placed to assist with joint venture agreements between Cuban and foreign counterparties. An interviewee reports: "Alex Chiang is a very good lawyer who has good expectations for the future," adding: "He is an excellent professional who is well prepared to assist with commercial matters."

Up-and-coming practitioner Lianet Toranzo joins the rankings this year after eliciting significant praise from market commentators, with one reporting: "She is an incredibly capable lawyer working at a strong traditional firm." Another interviewee adds: "Lianet Toranzo has impressed me due to her commercial awareness, flexibility and professionalism."