Expertise/Russia–China Practice
Practice
The Russia–China Practice specializes in supporting the projects of Chinese companies in Russia and cooperation between Russian and Chinese businesses.
We advise on entering the Russian market, organizing operations, investment and cross-border commercial relationships.
The main areas of work are structuring Chinese businesses in Russia, investment projects, joint ventures and foreign trade transactions. The interests of Chinese investors and of Russian and Chinese participants in commercial projects are represented in negotiations, in the performance of agreements and in the resolution of related disputes.
The practice draws on experience of Russia–China projects, knowledge of the legal systems of both countries and work in Russian, Chinese and English. In developing a legal model, account is taken of the cross-border nature of the relationship, regulatory requirements, payment arrangements and the conditions for the recognition and enforcement of decisions in disputes.
Acting for the Chinese company
Challenge
A Chinese and a Russian partner were setting up a joint venture, and they had different legal traditions, expectations regarding management and views on the allocation of control.
What was done
The Chinese company was advised on the ownership structure, the management and exit mechanics, and the alignment of the parties' interests under Chinese and Russian law. The venture was launched on the agreed terms.
Parent company due diligence
Challenge
A Russian buyer was acquiring a Russian company whose parent was a Chinese company. Closing the transaction required due diligence of the Chinese parent company and its connection with the asset being sold.
What was done
Legal due diligence of the Chinese parent company was carried out, covering the group's corporate structure, the chain of ownership of the Russian subsidiary and the legal risks at the intersection of Chinese and Russian law. The acquisition of the Russian company went ahead with a legal picture that was clear to the parties.
Legal due diligence
Challenge
Independent legal due diligence of a Chinese company was required, covering its corporate structure and legal status at the intersection of Chinese and international law.
What was done
An opinion was prepared on the corporate structure, the chain of ownership and the related legal risks. The client obtained a clear legal picture for its further decisions.
Contract review
Challenge
Contracts for the international sale of goods between China and Russia carry risks of divergence in the governing law, delivery terms and dispute resolution mechanisms. Such contracts were reviewed on behalf of the Chinese company.
What was done
The governing law, delivery terms (Incoterms), currency and tax aspects and the dispute resolution procedure were analysed. The risks were identified and eliminated before signing.
Describe your matter and the circumstances in which it arose. The consultation establishes the possible structure of the work and the scope of legal support required.
