Department profile
Mori Hamada

Competition/Antitrust

Asia-Pacific Guide 2026 : Japan

Share profile

Mori Hamada

Rankings

About

Provided by Mori Hamada

We have one of the largest and most established competition and antitrust practices in Japan. We are regularly involved in the most high-profile and challenging cases in antitrust enforcement in Japan, Asia and beyond. Our track record of successful clearance and favorable outcomes for our clients speaks for itself, and we strive to be the best competition and antitrust practice group in Japan. Consistently top-ranked in the leading legal directories, our Competition and Antitrust Practice Group consists of highly qualified lawyers who have prior experience studying and working abroad, working for the Japan Fair Trade Commission (JFTC), and regularly providing support for government authorities building competition policies such as the JFTC and the Ministry of the Economy, Trade and Industry (METI).

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Competition/Antitrust - Japan

Band 1

What the Team is Known For

Mori Hamada maintains a highly esteemed practice that is regularly called upon to provide advice on the Japanese aspects of multi-jurisdictional merger control. The firm defends domestic corporations from sanctions and administrative orders issued by the JFTC, as well as from cartel investigations both in Japan and abroad. The team also assists clients with establishing competition law compliance programmes as well as drafting related manuals and providing training to employees. It is bolstered by the expertise of former JFTC officials within the team.

View ranking table

Work Highlights

Provided by Chambers

  • Mori Hamada represented Kyushu Electric Power in its litigation regarding an alleged cartel and more than JPY100 billion surcharges imposed by the JFTC.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

  • They provide realistic advice in a timely manner based on their expertise and information obtained through their networks.

    Competition/Antitrust respondentAsia-Pacific

  • The law firm has a very committed team with excellent professionals. It also has great knowledge of the clients' business models and market trends.

    Competition/Antitrust respondentAsia-Pacific

  • They provide great strategic insights and practical advice.

    Competition/Antitrust respondentAsia-Pacific

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

  • Kenji Ito
    Kenji Ito

    Kenji Ito

    Kenji Ito is highly regarded by market commentators for his expertise in handling antitrust and competition mandates. He is well versed in advising on merger control, global investigations and compliance programmes.

    • He is a competition law master.

      Competition/Antitrust respondentAsia-Pacific

    • Mr Ito is impressive, experienced, smart and thoughtful.

      Competition/Antitrust respondentAsia-Pacific

    • Kenji Ito is very intelligent and sharp.

      Competition/Antitrust respondentAsia-Pacific
    View profile
  • Hideki Utsunomiya
    Hideki Utsunomiya

    Hideki Utsunomiya

    Hideki Utsunomiya's established practice covers both the transactional and behavioural aspects of competition issues.

    • He is an incredible lawyer.

      Competition/Antitrust respondentAsia-Pacific

    • We always receive a high level of service.

      Competition/Antitrust respondentAsia-Pacific
    View profile
  • Yusuke Takamiya
    Yusuke Takamiya

    Yusuke Takamiya

    Yusuke Takamiya has a growing reputation in the field of antitrust law, advising on large corporate transactions as well as cartel investigations.

    • He is quick to respond and deal with issues. He explains things clearly so that we can understand them.

      Competition/Antitrust respondentAsia-Pacific
    View profile

Ranked Individuals at Mori Hamada (3)

Japan

Members

Provided by Mori Hamada

What success is built on

Chambers is the leading data and intelligence partner for the legal sector.

Explore thought leadership