Lexcomm Vietnam LLC is a preeminent full-service commercial law firm with market-leading practices in multiple industries in Vietnam.
Our Vietnam qualified lawyers offer specialist legal expertise across the full range of practice areas to advise a diverse range of clients on strategic legal issues with the ability to handle complex multibillion-dollar landmark transactions and projects.
We are proud to be recommended by numerous prestigious independent authoritative guides to law firms in Vietnam:
The Legal 500 Asia Pacific 2025 has once again ranked our firm Lexcomm Vietnam LLC as a top tier law firm in Vietnam, topping the table of law firms with projects and energy and TMT.
On firm rankings, we have earned Tier 1 for projects and energy for a seventh year in a row this year, Tier 1 for telecoms, media and technology (TMT) for the third year, and Tier 2 for dispute resolution (arbitration). The firm also achieved other practice rankings: corporate and M&A, labour and employment.
On individual rankings, our Managing Partner Pham Ba Linh (Head of Energy, Project Finance and Infrastructure) has maintained his market-leading ranking as “Leading Partner” for projects and energy, and Partner and Head of Hanoi office Nguyen Viet Ha (Head of TMT, Co-Head of Corporate and M&A) achieved “Leading Partner” for TMT. Partner Luong Van Trung (Head of International Arbitration, Co-Head of Corporate and M&A) and Partner Nguyen Hong Hai (Head of Renewables, Head of Compliance, Corporate Governance and Employment) were both recommended lawyers in the practices of dispute resolution (arbitration) and corporate and M&A.
Lexcomm Vietnam LLC
Projects and Energy
Praised for its ‘strong depth of practice and industry knowledge', Lexcomm Vietnam LLC has an expert group in energy, project finance and infrastructure. The team acts for a broad range of international and local energy companies and financial institutions, and is particularly well-versed in transactions and projects relating to LNG and upstream oil and gas. The practice is led by seasoned transactional lawyer Pham Ba Linh in Ho Chi Minh City who focuses on energy and natural resources, and Hanoi-based Nguyen Viet Ha who is ’a top-choice lawyer for projects and energy as well as energy-related dispute resolution’ and Nguyen Hong Hai who also has extensive experience handling projects and energy matters.
‘The firm delivers excellent work through a strategic approach and with strong depth of practice and industry knowledge. The service is truly consistent with the firm’s top-tier reputation.’
‘We highly recommend Nguyen Viet Ha for his extensive knowledge, practical and client-oriented counsel and effective communication. Ha is a top-choice lawyer for projects and energy as well as energy-related dispute resolution.’
‘Their team has excellent commercial sensitivity to every facet and a thorough understanding of the market. Their root cause analysis is always on top, allowing us to deeply comprehend the issues to make right decisions.’
‘Pham Ba Linh and Nguyen Viet Ha are stars are both responsive and willing to go for extra miles. They both have incredible commercial and even “political” sensitivity to every facet of the Vietnamese energy market. Therefore, their advice not only stems from their deep knowledge of the legal regulations but also from other crucial commercial and political factors, which aids us - international corporations with limited local knowledge—in making better plans for the projects following the closing.’
‘The team knows the market well.’
‘Nguyen Viet Ha has extensive knowledge about the renewable energy sector regulations in Vietnam.'
'They are very responsive and reliable.'
TMT
Full-service commercial law firm Lexcomm Vietnam LLC has a well-established TMT practice that advises across a broad range of sectors, including media, tech, telecoms, outsourcing, satellites and entertainment. With a client roster that includes major tech and telecoms companies, as well as energy businesses and financial service actors, the group handless all aspects of IT and telecoms, and also has extensive experience handling transactions and disputes. Leading the team from Hanoi, practice head Nguyen Viet Ha is a highly experienced IT, media and telecoms practitioner, and who is also sought after for his expertise in matters involving corporate and M&A and dispute resolution.
Dispute Resolution: Arbitration
Lexcomm Vietnam LLC boasts a seasoned group of litigators and arbitrators who have extensive experience in various forms of dispute resolution in Vietnam, including litigation, arbitration and alternative dispute resolution. The team is knowledgeable in a broad range of sectors and has ‘deep expertise in energy-related litigation and arbitration’. Leading the group, Luong Van Trung in Ho Chi Minh City specialises in investment, finance, real estate and construction, commercial and energy-related disputes. In Hanoi, Nguyen Viet Ha has ‘top-level legal and sector expertise’ and focuses on disputes in energy, TMT and competition, while Nguyen Hong Hai specialises in labour, cross-border investment and shareholder cases.
‘Very good knowledge of local laws. Lexcomm is superb.'
‘Lexcomm team has a strong track record in dispute resolution work, particularly with deep expertise in energy-related litigation and arbitration. The firm is always top of mind when we have to deal with highly complicated contentious matters.’
‘Nguyen Viet Ha is greatly valued for his top-level legal and sector expertise, commercial savvy and holistic approach.'
‘Their team has excellent commercial sensitivity to every facet and a thorough understanding of the market.'
‘Luong Van Trung and Nguyen Viet Ha are both responsive and willing to go the extra mile. More than that, they have a thorough understanding of the underlying causes of the disputes and excel at managing the dynamics and influence in our relationship with counterparties and other stakeholders.'
Corporate and M&A
With particular expertise in multi-jurisdictional transactions, Lexcomm Vietnam LLC advises on a range of corporate matters and M&A, with unique capabilities in the energy sector. Key figures in Hanoi include the ‘excellent negotiator’ Nguyen Viet Ha, who specialises in corporate work arising out of the IT, media and telecoms industries, and Nguyen Hong Hai, who an expert in M&A, cross-border investments and general corporate matters. In Ho Chi Minh City, Luong Van Trung is highly experienced in foreign direct investments, securities and capital transactions, project financing and corporate and commercial matters.
‘The team is active and very helpful. Even after the service is completed, in case we need any information or explanation from them, they support us.’
‘Nguyen Viet Ha is an excellent negotiator. He always tries his best to protect his clients.’
‘Nguyen Viet Ha is a responsive and reliable partner for M&A.’
Labour and Employment
Lexcomm Vietnam LLC handles a range of employment and labour mandates, from whistleblower investigations and employee termination disputes to internal governance policy reviews and restructurings. Nguyen Hong Hai leads the employment and benefits team, and is noted for his expertise in non-contentious employment mandates and labour litigation.
‘Legal opinions are combined with expertise and practical case studies.’
‘Nguyen Hong Hai is dedicated, provides swift feedback and always listens to the client's ideas.’
In the 2025 edition, Lexcomm Vietnam LLC has been again ranked prominently by Chambers Asia Pacific across its strategically important practice areas:
- Projects, Infrastructure & Energy
- Banking and Finance
- Corporate/ M&A
- Dispute Resolution
- Employment
- Technology, Media, Telecoms (TMT)
Our individual rankings include:
- Managing Partner Pham Ba Linh (Head of Energy, Project Finance and Infrastructure): Band 1 lawyer in Projects, Infrastructure & Energy.
- Partner Nguyen Viet Ha (Head of TMT, Co-Head of Corporate and M&A): Band 1 lawyer in TMT and ranked lawyer in project, infrastructure & energy.
- Partner Luong Van Trung (Head of International Arbitration, Co-Head of Corporate and M&A): Ranked lawyer in dispute resolution.
- Partner Nguyen Hong Hai (Head of Renewables, Head of Compliance, Corporate Governance and Employment): Ranked lawyer in employment.
Lexcomm Vietnam LLC
Projects, Infrastructure & Energy
Lexcomm Vietnam has a well-regarded practice in the energy and infrastructure sector, with especially strong legal knowledge in natural resources mandates. The firm's expertise includes upstream oil and gas matters and the development of coal-fired power projects. The practice often handles project financing and transactional matters relating to BOT and PPP projects. The team represents Vietnamese SOEs and domestic and international energy companies.
“Their analysis of regulatory matters in the energy sector is up-to-date, which is important in Vietnam given that the regulatory tendency frequently changes.”
“Power projects are complicated and involve multiple issues, which Lexcomm was able to advise on well.”
Pham Ba Linh is the managing partner of Lexcomm and is based in its Ho Chi Minh City office. He has impressive experience in a full range of energy and infrastructure projects in the country.
“He is my go-to lawyer for projects in Vietnam.”
“His commercial industry background sets him apart.”
Nguyen Viet Ha is a partner at Lexcomm's Hanoi office. He comes well recommended for his infrastructure and energy projects expertise. He regularly assists with supply agreements, project finance and M&A relating to coal-fired power plants and renewable energy.
“He's very strong and highly recommended.”
“Nguyen Viet Ha offers high-quality advice with reasonable fees.”
Banking and Finance
Lexcomm Vietnam is well-placed to represent global banks in Vietnam-related mandates. The firm demonstrates key capabilities in large value project, trade and commodity financings. The team is further experienced in advising clients on refinancing.
Corporate/ M&A
Lexcomm's corporate law team has an active practice in Vietnam for M&A transactions, frequently advising clients on corporate restructuring, acquisitions and divestments, venture capital and private equity deals. The team is especially experienced in deals in the energy, education and real estate sectors. The firm regularly advises clients on regulatory aspects of M&A activity.
Dispute Resolution
Lexcomm Vietnam has a respected disputes practice with experience handling litigation and arbitration matters. The firm is best known for its work on energy and infrastructure sector disputes, and is also active on real estate and competition cases. The team offers experience in both SIAC and VIAC arbitration.
“The team is very experienced, knowledgeable and result-oriented. The team speaks powerfully at hearings.”
Luong Van Trung is a partner in the firm's Ho Chi Minh City office. He possesses key experience representing clients in both domestic courts and international arbitration. He often handles disputes in the power sector.
Employment
Lexcomm Vietnam's lawyers are well placed to advise on a range of labour disputes in Vietnam, including those involving senior management, as well as daily operational matters. Areas of expertise include internal employment policies, visa issues and workforce restructuring. The firm acts for clients in a range of sectors, including education, energy, technology and banking.
Nguyen Hong Hai is a partner based in Lexcomm's Hanoi office. He regularly assists clients with a range of employment issues, including workforce restructuring, visa issues and labour litigation.
Technology, Media, Telecoms (TMT)
Lexcomm is a busy law firm in the TMT space, active on a wide range of matters in Vietnam, including data privacy, OTT services and fintech matters. The firm is particularly experienced in the film and television space, frequently acting for broadcasters and technology companies. The team is also experienced in handling the Vietnam aspect of cross-border regional transactions.
Nguyen Viet Ha is a founding partner of Lexcomm Vietnam, based in Hanoi and head of the TMT practice. He regularly handles transactions for major technology and media clients and is a former in-house counsel at a Vietnamese telecoms company.
In the IFLR100’s 34th edition (2024/25), Lexcomm Vietnam LLC has been once again ranked Tier 1 for Project development. The firm also achieved other practice rankings, including:
- Banking and finance
- Capital markets (debt), capital markets (equity)
- Mergers and acquisitions (M&A)
In the 2024/25 edition, we have been recommended by Asialaw Profiles in numerous industry sectors and practice areas, including:
Industry sectors:
- Banking and financial services
- Energy
- Infrastructure
Practice areas:
- Banking and finance
- Capital markets
- Corporate and M&A
- Dispute resolution
- Labour and employment
The Legal 500 Asia Pacific 2024 has once again ranked our firm Lexcomm Vietnam LLC as a top tier law firm in Vietnam, topping the table of law firms with projects and energy and TMT.
On firm rankings, we have earned Tier 1 for projects and energy for a sixth year in a row this year, and Tier 1 for telecoms, media and technology (TMT) for the second year. The firm also achieved other practice rankings: banking and finance, corporate and M&A, labour and employment, and dispute resolution (arbitration).
On individual rankings, our Managing Partner Pham Ba Linh (Head of Energy, Project Finance and Infrastructure) has maintained his market-leading ranking as “Leading Individual” for projects and energy, and Partner and Head of Hanoi office Nguyen Viet Ha (Head of TMT, Co-Head of Corporate and M&A) achieved “Leading Individual” for TMT. Partner Luong Van Trung (Head of International Arbitration, Co-Head of Corporate and M&A) and Partner Nguyen Hong Hai (Head of Renewables, Head of Compliance, Corporate Governance and Employment) were both recommended lawyers in the practices of dispute resolution (arbitration) and corporate and M&A.
Lexcomm Vietnam LLC
Projects and Energy
With development and financing mandates in its impressive work portfolio, Lexcomm Vietnam LLC continues to be a leading player in the energy and infrastructure market, advising some of the globe’s largest asset managers, financial institutions and developers on high-value regional and cross-border deals. Oil and gas mandates remain the cornerstone of the practice, but a steady stream of renewable projects pertaining wind, solar and hydropower have also kept the group’s practitioner’s busy, alongside critical transport infrastructure construction and redevelopments. Founding partner and department lead Pham Ba Linh is proficient across the full gamut of energy and infrastructure financing, including project, leveraged and acquisition financing, and commands a strong understanding of the PPP market. Fellow founding partner and team head Nguyen Viet Ha also acts as head of M&A and excels across a range of acquisitions, divestments and joint ventures, whilst also possessing previous in-house industry experience at a leading telecommunications company.
‘Pham Ba Linh is very responsive and gives direct attention to his matters. He is our main contact and the person on whom we rely.’
‘Sector-focus experts and good value-for-money.’
‘Pham Ba Linh has a very strong track record in Vietnamese energy and projects work. The firm’s product is on par with some of the regional heavyweights. In addition, their responsiveness is excellent, they provide good value for money, and they are very easy to collaborate with.’
‘Pham Ba Linh really understands the industry, and having spent time previously in-house he is very attune to ensuring that his advice is client-focused.’
‘Pham Ba Linh knows the oil and gas sector very well. He is very practical and efficient.’
Telecoms, Media and Technology (TMT)
Lexcomm Vietnam LLC is geared to act on the full array of TMT-related issues for a burgeoning roll call of multinational conglomerates that include Microsoft, Uber, and the BBC, as well as a strong list of key domestic clients. The group offers knowledgeable and technical insights into app and e-commerce trading platform launches, data protection and privacy requirements, and multi-million USD M&A deals, as well as a considerable body of contentious work. The team is headed by Nguyen Viet Ha, who has exhibited unprecedented levels of activity over the past year acting across the telecommunication, television, energy, financial services, and gaming industries, and is routinely joined in mandates by Hoang Le Quan, who is steadily building up a formidable portfolio of premium client instructions.
Banking and Finance
Lexcomm Vietnam LLC counts sponsors, multilateral lending agencies international banks, and other financial institutions in its client roster and primarily advises on multicurrency syndicated loan facilities. Founding partner Pham Ba Linh has experience handling a broad range of transactions and is noted for his ability to advise lenders on energy and infrastructure project financings.
Corporate and M&A
Lexcomm Vietnam LLC has a team of practitioners well-versed in cross-border M&A, frequently advising on inbound and outbound foreign investments, as well as business acquisitions by pan-Asian and transatlantic entities. Beyond this area of work, the group has strong regulatory expertise that underpins corporate formation and reorganisations, as well as IPOs and joint ventures. Head of M&A Nguyen Viet Ha is a seasoned practitioner that has particular expertise regarding energy and infrastructure assets, and is highly competent in handling clients’ sizeable foreign investment projects. Both Luong Van Trung and Nguyen Hong Hai possess similar cross-border proficiencies, with the latter also well-regarded for his capital markets and financing work, and the latter for his joint venture, corporate governance and compliance acumen.
‘Responsive, good client service, and good negotiation skills.’
Dispute Resolution: Arbitration
Lexcomm Vietnam LLC‘s clients benefit from the firm’s market expertise in energy and power work, with the practice regularly receiving instructions from some of Asia’s largest utility providers as well as from Vietnamese state-owned companies and oil & gas players. The team is also active in real estate project disputes, contract and agreement breaches, and joint venture disagreements. Founding partner and team head Luong Van Trung specialises in real estate, corporate, commercial, and investor-state arbitration, whereas Nguyen Viet Ha primarily focuses on energy-related disputes. Nguyen Hong Hai is chiefly active in the hospitality sector.
‘Lexcomm is a local firm with international standard of service and it always strives to improve its quality of services to clients. The firm has a strong team with competent individuals and very skilled leaders.’
‘Luong Van Trung is a leading practitioner in arbitration and shows profound knowledge of international arbitration practice and case management strategies. Trung also has a strong support team which helps him deal with complicated and facts-intensive cases. Being a popular VIAC arbitrator, Trung also has the advantage of understanding VIAC procedure and practice in-side-out. When clients choose Lexcomm for their disputes, they are put in good hands.’
‘Lexcomm has the experienced litigators in court and arbitral proceedings.’
‘The lawyers have comprehensive knowledge and experience in dispute resolutions. They are very intelligent. Luong Van Trung and Nguyen Viet Ha are experienced litigators.’
Employment
Lexcomm Vietnam LLC’s employment and benefits team, led by Nguyen Hong Hai in Hanoi, regularly advises its diverse client base, which includes local individuals as well as international corporations, on a wide range of labour law-related matters. This offering encompasses whistleblower investigations and employee termination disputes.
In the 2024 edition, Lexcomm Vietnam LLC has been again ranked prominently by Chambers Asia Pacific across its strategically important practice areas:
- Projects, Infrastructure & Energy
- Technology, Media, Telecoms (TMT)
- Banking and Finance
- Corporate/ M&A
- Dispute Resolution
- Employment
Notably, our Managing Partner Pham Ba Linh (Head of Energy, Project Finance and Infrastructure) has been named one of the very top few Band 1 project finance and energy lawyers in Vietnam. Our other individual rankings include:
- Partner Nguyen Viet Ha (Head of TMT, Co-Head of Corporate and M&A): Spotlight lawyer in TMT and ranked lawyer in project, infrastructure & energy.
- Partner Luong Van Trung (Head of International Arbitration, Co-Head of Corporate and M&A): Ranked lawyer in dispute resolution.
- Partner Nguyen Hong Hai (Head of Renewables, Head of Compliance, Corporate Governance and Employment): Ranked lawyer in employment.
Lexcomm Vietnam LLC
Projects, Infrastructure & Energy
Lexcomm Vietnam has a well-regarded practice in the energy and infrastructure sector, with especially strong legal knowledge in natural resources mandates. The firm's expertise includes upstream oil and gas matters and the development of coal-fired power projects. The practice often handles project financing and transactional matters relating to BOT and PPP projects. The team represents Vietnamese SOEs and domestic and international energy companies.
"Lexcomm have good knowledge of the oil and gas industry and in-country regulations. They suggest the way forward to solve specific matters when we ask for advice."
"The Lexcomm team are able to tailor their advice to the commercial imperatives of the transaction."
Pham Ba Linh is the managing partner of Lexcomm and is based in its Ho Chi Minh City office. He has impressive experience in a full range of energy and infrastructure projects in the country. "He is one of my go-to lawyers for Vietnam-related work, especially for projects. Pham Ba Linh has great client service, and is commercial and practical with his advice." "Pham Ba Linh really understands the energy sector and politics of Vietnam."
Nguyen Viet Ha is a partner at Lexcomm's Hanoi office. He comes well What the team is known for mended for his infrastructure and energy projects expertise. He regularly assists with supply agreements, project finance and M&A relating to coal-fired power plants and renewable energy.
Technology, Media, Telecoms (TMT)
Lexcomm is a busy law firm in the TMT space, active on a wide range of matters in Vietnam, including data privacy, OTT services and fintech matters. The firm is particularly experienced in the film and television space, frequently acting for broadcasters and technology companies. The team is also experienced handling the Vietnam aspect of cross-border regional transactions.
Nguyen Viet Ha is a founding partner of Lexcomm Vietnam, based in Hanoi and head of the TMT practice. He regularly handles transactions for major technology and media clients and is a former in-house counsel at a Vietnamese telecoms company.
Banking and Finance
Lexcomm Vietnam is well placed to represent global banks in Vietnam-related mandates. The firm demonstrates key capabilities in large value project, trade and commodity financings. The team is further experienced in advising clients on refinancing. Pham Ba Linh in Ho Chi Minh City is a key contact.
Corporate/ M&A
Lexcomm's corporate law team has an active practice in Vietnam for M&A transactions, frequently advising clients on corporate restructuring, acquisitions and divestments, venture capital and private equity deals. The team is especially experienced on deals in the energy, education and real estate sectors. The firm regularly advises clients on regulatory aspects of M&A activity. Nguyen Viet Ha is a key point of contact for clients.
"The Lexcomm team are professional and experienced, with sufficient resources to handle the work."
Dispute Resolution
Lexcomm Vietnam has a respected disputes practice with experience handling litigation and arbitration matters. The firm is best known for its work on energy and infrastructure sector disputes, and is also active on real estate and competition cases. The team offers experience on both SIAC and VIAC arbitration.
Luong Van Trung is a partner in the firm's Ho Chi Minh City office. He possesses key experience representing clients in both domestic courts and international arbitration. He often handles disputes in the power sector.
Employment
Lexcomm Vietnam's lawyers are well placed to advise on a range of labour disputes in Vietnam, including those involving senior management, as well as daily operational matters. Areas of expertise include internal employment policies, visa issues and workforce restructuring. The firm acts for clients in a range of sectors, including education, energy, technology and banking.
Nguyen Hong Hai is a partner based in Lexcomm's Hanoi office. He regularly assists clients with a range of employment issues, including workforce restructuring, visa issues and labour litigation.
In the IFLR100’s 33rd edition (2023/24), Lexcomm Vietnam LLC has been promoted to Tier 1 for Project development. The firm also achieved other practice rankings, including:
- Banking and finance
- Capital markets (debt), capital markets (equity)
- Mergers and acquisitions (M&A)
Lexcomm Vietnam LLC
The firm is strongest in project development and has robust banking and finance, capital markets and M&A practices.
The banking team is experienced in advising clients such as international lenders, commercial banks and borrowers on matters involving project finance, acquisition finance, debt restructuring, syndicated lending and regulatory compliance.
On the projects side, the firm has a focus on the energy, oil and gas, utilities, transport, mining and infrastructure sectors. It has a wealth of experience advising an array of clients across a broad spectrum of upstream, midstream, power, petrochemicals and mining exploration projects.
The banking team was active for offshore short-term loan, project financing and refinancing. It also advised on financial services regulatory matters.
In M&A the firm was active on advising sectors including education and energy.
In projects, the firm was highly visible in energy, project finance and infrastructure. In a landmark mandate, the firmadvised AC Energy in relation to its strategic acquisition, which is “first of its kind” deal.
“Professional and experienced in this area.” - Banking and finance
“Aggressive and very good at negotiation.”, “Value for money. Knows the market well. Well placed to advise.” - M&A
“Very knowledgeable, very experienced, very commercial advice.” - Pham Ba Linh
“He is smart, aggressive and very good at negotiation.” , “Professional and experienced.” - Nguyen Viet Ha
In the 2023/24 edition, we have been recommended by Asialaw Profiles in numerous industry sectors and practice areas, including:
Industry sectors:
- Banking and financial services
- Energy
- Infrastructure
Practice areas:
- Banking and finance
- Capital markets
- Corporate and M&A
- Dispute resolution
- Labour and employment
In the 2024 edition, we have been recommended by Benchmark Litigation Asia Pacific in the following practice areas:
- International Arbitration (Highly recommended)
- Energy and Construction (Tier 2)
- Commercial and Transactions (Tier 2)
- Labour and Employment (Other Notable Firms)
On individual rankings, our Partner Luong Van Trung (Head of International Arbitration, Co-Head of Corporate and M&A), Partner Nguyen Viet Ha (Head of TMT, Co-Head of Corporate and M&A) and Partner Nguyen Hong Hai (Head of Renewables, Head of Compliance, Corporate Governance and Employment) were prominently rated as Litigation Stars.
Lexcomm Vietnam LLC
The dispute resolution offering at Lexcomm pairs well with its market-leading corporate and transactions practice. The team, based across two offices in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, is well-versed in various forms of dispute resolution management, and includes experienced litigators and arbitrators. The practice covers a host of areas such as financial services, domestic and international arbitration, investment, energy, insurance, post-M&A and tax disputes, and even product liability claims.
A triumvirate of partners lead the disputes team as practice heads: Trung Luong Van, Ha Nguyen Viet and Hai Nguyen Hong.
The team continues to act for state-owned power giant Vietnam Electricity on the largest dispute in Vietnam arising out of a coal supply agreement for the testing and commissioning of the thermal power plant.
In the 2023 edition, we have been recommended by Legal 500 in numerous practice areas, including:
- Projects and energy
- TMT
- Banking and finance
- Corporate and M&A
- Dispute resolution - Arbitration
- Labour and Employment
In particular, for a fifth year in a row, Lexcomm Vietnam LLC is distinctively ranked a market-leading Tier 1 law firm in Projects and Energy by Legal 500, and Pham Ba Linh has received the accolade of being named one of the very top few "Leading Individuals" energy, project finance and infrastructure lawyers in Vietnam.
In addition, Lexcomm Vietnam LLC has been promoted to Tier 1 for the practice area of telecoms, media and technology (TMT) and our Hanoi-based partner and head of TMT Nguyen Viet Ha is once again individually recognised as one of the very top few “Leading Individuals” TMT lawyers in Vietnam.
Lexcomm Vietnam LLC
Energy, project finance and infrastructure are key ares of focus for Lexcomm Vietnam LLC. More specifically, the team acts for a broad range of clients on LNG and upstream oil and gas projects, as well as renewable energy, petrochemicals and mining and metals. It also supports clients on the regulatory issues of wind and solar energy projects, in addition to handling project finance matters. ‘Standout’ managing partner Pham Ba Linh is based in Ho Chi Minh City and jointly leads the practice alongside Hanoi-based Nguyen Viet Ha. Linh has experience in PPPs and advises international banks, sponsors, investors and private equity and infrastructure funds, while Ha handles cross-border energy and infrastructure transactions.
Good industry knowledge and excellent responsiveness.’
‘Pham Ba Linh is impressive and commercially savvy.’
‘Local knowledge, great sector experience, and good value-for-money.’
‘Pham Ba Linh understands the energy sector and provides excellent local knowledge.’
‘The team is responsive and has great knowledge in oil and gas, energy, M&A, and banking.’
‘Pham Ba Linh provides a partner-led service.’
‘They are quick and responsive.’
‘Pham Ba Linh is a standout lawyer.’
Lexcomm Vietnam LLC has a strong TMT offering on both the contentious and non-contentious side. In the telecoms arena, areas of focus for the group include mobile, satellite, VPN, NGN, terrestrial broadcasting, cable TV and the internet, advising both users and service providers in transactions and disputes. The team also has expertise in the television and film space. Nguyen Viet Ha is practice head with substantial experience in the telecoms sector. Tran Thanh Son and Hoang Le Quan are also key contacts in the team.
Lexcomm Vietnam LLC’s banking and finance practice supports lenders, arrangers and borrowers on debt and equity financings based in Vietnam, and on those with a cross-border element too. Financing Greenfield projects is a key area of focus for the team, in addition to asset, leveraged and acquisition finance transactions. Managing partner Pham Ba Linh heads the practice and has considerable expertise in energy projects.
Lexcomm Vietnam LLC’s corporate and M&A team is adept at advising international clients on acquiring Vietnamese targets. The group’s offering also extends to joint ventures and corporate formation and reorganisation. Its client roster includes sellers, buyers financial investors and fund managers. Energy and infrastructure are areas of strength for Nguyen Viet Ha, who jointly leads the team alongside Luong Van Trung, who advises on the transactional and contentious side of M&A mandates.
‘They are a responsive team and provide organised answers to queries.’
‘Their particular strengths are responsiveness, commerciality, good client service, and good negotiation skills.’
‘Nguyen Viet Ha is smart, aggressive and commercially oriented. Ha is very good at negotiation.’
Lexcomm Vietnam LLC’s team is adept at advising local companies and international corporates on a wide range of labour matters, from representing clients in whistle-blowing investigations and other labour-related disputes, to handling terminations, restructurings and internal governance policies. Nguyen Hong Hai leads the practice group.
The experienced Luong Van Trung leads the arbitration practice at Lexcomm Vietnam LLC and is also co-head of the corporate and M&A team; Trung has a focus on disputes involving investment, finance, real estate, construction, corporate and commercial matters. Nguyen Viet Ha is also a key name for arbitration instructions, co-leading the M&A team as well as the TMT group.
‘Lexcomm is a very good law firm. They are very dedicated and supportive. Their particular strengths are responsiveness, commerciality, and good client service.’
‘The team is high quality – each member of the team has a good understanding of arbitration law and practice. In terms of Vietnamese arbitration practice, it is one of the strongest team in Vietnam with lots of practical experience.’
‘The team is led by Luong Van Trung, a highly regarded arbitration practitioner in Vietnam who is most experienced with VIAC both as counsel and arbitrator. Trung is not only experienced in domestic arbitration, but he also has an English law background and has done some international arbitrations under SIAC rules. He is known as very fast and innovative counsel who always deals with the clients’ matters professionally and effectively.’
‘Nguyen Viet Ha and Luong Van Trung are perfect lawyers with wide knowledge, lots of experience.’
In the 2023 edition, we have been recommended by Chambers Asia Pacific in numerous practice areas:
- Projects, Infrastructure & Energy
- Technology, Media, Telecoms (TMT)
- Banking and Finance
- Corporate/ M&A
- Dispute Resolution
- Employment
Testimonials
"Lexcomm have great knowledge of the subject matter and so can provide good advice. They always provide an alternative solution if asked for a way forward.", "They are very responsive, provide a quality service and are attuned to clients' businesses.", "Pham Ba Linh is very knowledgeable on Vietnamese laws and practices in the energy sector including complex and sophisticated matters. He is able to grasp detailed issues and provide practical, commercial advice." - Projects, Infrastructure & Energy
"Lexcomm have strong transaction management skills and are enthusiastic in responding to requests and emails." – Banking and Finance
"The Lexcomm team is very dedicated and supportive. Its particular strengths are responsiveness, commerciality and negotiation skill.", "The team responds to our requests very quickly and the quality of the work is good too." - Corporate/ M&A
"Lexcomm Vietnam always acknowledges emails and responds within 72 hours." - Employment
"Lexcomm has a very good team with diverse experience. This gives them strong capability to provide insightful advice.", "Mr Trung has very strong experience in arbitration matters." - Dispute Resolution
In the IFLR1000’s 32nd edition (2022/23), we have been recommended in numerous practice areas, including:
- Banking and finance
- Capital markets (debt), capital markets (equity)
- Project development
- Mergers and acquisitions (M&A)
Client feedback
“Good industry knowledge, good commercial advice.” - M&A
“Excellent, insightful, timely and helpful collaboration as local counsel in Vietnam.” - Project development
“They are commercial and responsive, and partner Linh in particular understands clients' needs.” - Project finance
In the 2022/23 edition, we have been recommended by Asialaw Profiles in numerous industry sectors and practice areas, including:
Industry sectors:
- Banking and financial services
- Energy
- Infrastructure
Practice areas:
- Banking and finance
- Capital markets
- Corporate and M&A
- Labour and employment
- Dispute resolution
In the 2023 edition, we have been recommended by Benchmark Litigation Asia Pacific in the following practice areas:
- International Arbitration
- Energy and Construction
- Commercial and Transactions
- Labour and Employment
On individual rankings, our Partner Luong Van Trung (Head of International Arbitration, Co-Head of Corporate and M&A), Partner Nguyen Viet Ha (Head of TMT, Co-Head of Corporate and M&A) and Partner Nguyen Hong Hai (Head of Renewables, Head of Compliance, Corporate Governance and Employment) were prominently rated as Litigation Stars.
Lexcomm Vietnam LLC
The dispute resolution offering at Lexcomm pairs well with its market-leading corporate and transactions practice. The team, based across two offices in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, is well-versed in various forms of dispute resolution management, and includes experienced litigators and arbitrators. The practice covers a host of areas such as financial services, domestic and international arbitration, investment, energy, insurance, post-M&A and tax disputes, and even product liability claims.
A triumvirate of partners lead the disputes team as practice heads: Trung Luong Van, Ha Nguyen Viet and Hai Nguyen Hong.
The team continues to act for WHA Utilities and Power on a dispute at the Vietnam International Arbitration Center regarding the exercise of put options under a share purchase agreement. This is the landmark case dealing with post-completion covenants.
The firm is blazing a trail with a seminal antitrust that is currently at the appellate stage. It remains as counsel for rideshare giant Uber in the first-ever economic concentration case that has gone to trial in Vietnam. Upon the outcome of this case, the government will have to introduce new antitrust law to tighten up its competition rules.
In another highlight, the firm is representing a state-owned enterprise in the energy sector in one of the largest disputes in the country relating to coal supply for a thermal power plant.
In the 2022 edition, we have been recommended by Legal 500 in numerous practice areas, including:
- Projects and energy
- TMT
- Banking and finance
- Corporate and M&A
- Labour and Employment
In particular, for a fourth year in a row, Lexcomm Vietnam LLC is distinctively ranked a market-leading Tier 1 law firm in Projects and Energy by Legal 500, and Pham Ba Linh has received the accolade of being named one of the very top few "Leading Individuals" energy, project finance and infrastructure lawyers in Vietnam.
Lexcomm Vietnam LLC
Lexcomm Vietnam LLC has a strong track record advising on upstream oil and gas and LNG projects and project finance transactions. The team has additional strengths in advising on renewable energy, petrochemicals and mining matters. Clients include banks and international energy companies. Managing partner Pham Ba Linh, who is based in Ho Chi Minh City, co-heads the practice with Hanoi-based partner Nguyen Viet Ha.
Lexcomm Vietnam LLC has a strong pedigree in the TMT arena, which is evidenced by the fact that its client roster includes names such as Microsoft, Xiaomi and the BBC. The practice captures a significant portion of transactional, commercial, regulatory and contentious work across multiple subsets of TMT; areas of activity include satellite, terrestrial broadcasting, online, mobile and VPN. The main contact at the firm is Hanoi-based partner Nguyen Viet Ha, who has 20 years of experience in the IT, media and telecoms spheres. His private practice expertise is complemented by his previous experience of working as in-house counsel at Vietnam Post and Telecommunications Group. In addition, Ha was also the head counsel at Vietnamobile. In one ongoing mandate, he is acting as the lead Vietnamese counsel to Uber Vietnam and Uber BV on the first economic concentration case that made it to a trial in Vietnam.
Lexcomm Vietnam LLC ‘s skillset within this space primarily falls under project financing, syndicated loans and regulatory assistance, with a client base consisting of major banks such as HSBC, MUFG Bank and BNP Paribas. Managing partner Pham Ba Linh, who is based in Ho Chi Minh City, is a respected name for financing energy projects. He co-heads the team with Hanoi-based partner Nguyen Ngoc Quy.
Testimonials
‘Generally very knowledgeable about Vietnam law and practice.’
‘Pham Ba Linh has excellent instincts and is very responsive and commercially-minded.’
‘High profile and seems to publish a lot.’
‘LEXCOMM provide a multi-subsector service. We particularly like their responsiveness and their adaptability on fees.’
‘Pham Ba Linh is our key contact there. He is very easy to deal with and provides a good amount of partner support on transactions.’
‘They are excellent. Very commercial and have a good grasp of the political vibe behind major infrastructure projects.’
‘Pham Ba Linh is an absolute star. He has the commercial know-how to get the deal done.’
‘We highly recommend Ba Linh for his wealth of transactional and regulatory experience and expertise across the energy value chain in complex upstream and midstream gas infrastructure, liquefied natural gas (LNG), refining and petrochemicals, LNG-to power projects in Vietnam.’
‘In my view, Pham Ba Linh is a top drawer, astute and technically brilliant banking lawyer. He is very well known in the Vietnam market and extremely experienced in advising international banks across the debt spectrum. I particularly note that Linh excels on advising on complex cross-border multi-source financings, reserve based lending, project finance, asset and structured finance, and capital markets offerings.’
In the 2022 edition, we have been recommended by Chambers Asia Pacific in numerous practice areas:
- Projects, Infrastructure & Energy
- Technology, Media, Telecoms (TMT)
- Corporate/ M&A
- Employment
- Dispute Resolution
Lexcomm Vietnam LLC
Lexcomm Vietnam has a growing presence in the energy and infrastructure sector, with especially strong legal knowledge in natural resources mandates. Expertise includes upstream oil and gas matters and the development of coal-fired power projects. Often handles project financing and transactional matters relating to BOT and PPP projects. Represents Vietnamese SOEs and domestic and international energy companies. Key clients include Nexif Energy, Hibiscus Petroleum and Nghi Son Refinery and Petrochemical.
Lexcomm is a busy law firm in the TMT space, active on a wide range of matters in Vietnam, including data privacy, OTT services and fintech matters. Particularly experienced in the film and television space, frequently acting for broadcasters and gaming companies. Also experienced handling the Vietnam aspect of cross-border regional transactions. Some of its key clients include Uber, Xiaomi and Robert Bosch.
Lexcomm's corporate law team has a growing reputation in Vietnam for M&A transactions. Frequently advises on corporate restructuring, acquisitions and divestments, venture capital and private equity deals. Especially experienced on deals in the energy, education and real estate sectors. Some of its key clients include Mutosi, Nexif Energy Management and Viet Nam Australia International Education.
Lexcomm Vietnam LLC has a growing disputes practice with experience handling litigation and arbitration matters. Best known for its work on energy and infrastructure sector disputes, its lawyers are also active on real estate and competition cases. Offers experience on both SIAC and VIAC arbitration.
Testimonials
The team at Lexcomm Vietnam is noted by sources for its "good reputation in oil and gas work."
An interviewee highlights that the team has "an excellent work product and is incredibly responsive."
A client comments that he [Nguyen Viet Ha] is "an experienced lawyer advising on legal issues in the field of energy and projects."
A source comments that he [Pham Ba Linh] is "responsive, always keeping us in the loop, and the briefs are easily digestible."
The firm is recognised by a source for providing "good advice for TMT advisory matters."
Market sources confirm that "he [Nguyen Viet Ha] is a good regulatory lawyer from a telecoms perspective."
The legal team at Lexcomm is described as "responsive and easy to communicate with" by a client. – M&A
One client appreciates that Lexcomm's lawyers "are willing to spend time, even outside working hours, to guide and discuss with the client about unclear issues or problems that arise." – Dispute resolution
In the IFLR1000’s 31th edition (2021/22), we have been recommended in numerous practice areas, including:
- Banking and finance
- Capital markets (debt), capital markets (equity)
- Project development
- Mergers and acquisitions (M&A)
Lexcomm Vietnam LLC
The firm is strongest in project development and has robust banking and finance, capital markets and M&A practices.
The banking team is experienced advising clients such as international lenders, commercial banks, and borrowers on matters involving project finance, acquisition finance, debt restructuring, syndicated lending and regulatory compliance.
On the projects side, the firm has a focus on the energy, oil and gas, utilities, transport, mining and infrastructure sectors. It has a wealth of experience advising an array of clients across a broad spectrum of upstream, midstream, power, petrochemicals and mining exploration projects.
Client feedback
"Fast feedback, commercial approach to legal advice." - M&A
"They gave us sound advice on evaluation, legal matters, contract terms and negotiation, future operation. " - M&A
"Responsive, accurate and communicative." - Project development
"They are always very responsive, incisive and very commercial. We always appreciate their guidance on how to navigate some of the complex matters." - Project development
In the 2022 edition, we have been recommended by Asialaw Profiles in numerous industry sectors and practice areas, including:
Industry sectors:
- Banking and financial services
- Energy
- Infrastructure
Practice areas:
- Banking and finance
- Capital markets
- Corporate and M&A
- Labour and employment
- Dispute resolution
In the 2022 edition, we have been recommended by Benchmark Litigation Asia Pacific in the following practice areas:
- Energy and Construction
- Commercial and Transactions
- Labour and Employment
- International Arbitration
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In the 2021 edition, we have been recommended by Legal 500 in numerous practice areas, including:
- Banking and finance
- Projects and energy
In particular, for a third year in a row, Lexcomm Vietnam LLC is distinctively ranked a market-leading Tier 1 law firm in Projects and Energy by Legal 500, and Pham Ba Linh has received the accolade of being named one of the very top few "Leading Individuals" energy, project finance and infrastructure lawyers in Vietnam.
Lexcomm Vietnam LLC
At Lexcomm Vietnam LLC, the banking and finance practice is co-led by capital markets expert Nguyen Ngoc Quy in Hanoi, and head of projects Pham Ba Linh in Ho Chi Minh City. The team has significant expertise in all aspects of financing transactions, including project finance, asset finance and leveraged finance deals, with expertise in acting for both borrowers and lenders. Also in Hanoi is Nguyen Viet Ha, who is a key name for complex, high-value, and often cross-border financing mandates for energy sector clients.
Lexcomm Vietnam LLC has strength in upstream oil and gas projects, and handles heavy project financing matters in that industry. Jointly led by managing partner Pham Ba Linh in Ho Chi Minh City and Nguyen Viet Ha in Hanoi, the team also covers renewable energy mandates, petrochemicals, and handles high-value transactions for international clients. Senior associates Le Lien Huong, energy disputes expert Nguyen Hong Hai, and Tran Thanh Son all comprise the core team. The group is also skilled in PPP and infrastructure work.
Testimonials
‘Pham Ba Linh is a strong player, they’re a small operation but are very good at what they do.‘
In the 2021 edition, we have been recommended by Chambers Asia Pacific in numerous practice areas:
- Projects, Infrastructure & Energy
- Technology, Media, Telecoms (TMT)
- Employment
- Dispute Resolution
Lexcomm Vietnam LLC
Growing presence in the energy and infrastructure sector, with especially strong knowledge in natural resources mandates. Expertise includes upstream oil and gas matters and the development of coal-fired power projects. Often handles project financing and transactional matters relating to BOT and PPP projects. Represents Vietnamese SOEs and domestic and international energy companies.
Recognised as a growing presence in this area, especially in relation to telecoms. Advises on network, satellite and licensing issues, as well as outsourcing and entertainment-related matters. Particularly experienced in the film and television space, frequently acting for broadcasters. Also experienced handling the Vietnam aspect of cross-border regional transactions.
Well placed to advise on a range of labour disputes, including those involving senior management, as well as daily operational matters. Areas of expertise include internal employment policies, staff outsourcing and workforce restructuring. Acts for clients in a range of sectors, including manufacturing, technology and banking.
Growing disputes practice with experience handling litigation and arbitration matters. Best known for its work on energy and infrastructure sector disputes, the firm is also active on real estate-related cases. Offers experience on ICC and VIAC arbitrations.
Testimonials
Interviewees recommend the firm, reporting: "They are very user-friendly for international parties. I would tend to go to them as first port of call for most things."
"Lexcomm is well regarded," confirms another source.
Pham Ba Linh has impressive experience in a full range of energy and infrastructure projects in the country. One interviewee states: "I know him to be a reliable and well-regarded practitioner."
Interviewees describe Lexcomm as a "standout firm" which is "very efficient and able to offer TMT sector advice."
Nguyen Viet Ha is a founding partner of Lexcomm and is a "well-known lawyer who has good knowledge," according to interviewees. He regularly handles transactions for major technology and media clients. He is a former in-house counsel at a Vietnamese telecoms company, and a market source comments that he "has industry knowledge" in the sector.
Clients say: "Their service is awesome. They make an effort to update us on their progress."
Nguyen Hong Hai regularly assists clients with a range of employment issues, including workforce restructuring, staff outsourcing and labour litigation. A client praises him for "proactively providing pros and cons on actions and sharing his considerations whenever we are indecisive."
One satisfied client comments: "They are able to provide clear statements and arguments which convince everyone in quite a short time. They are able to offer complete and effective solutions for the dispute and bring more confidence to the client."
In the IFLR1000’s 30th edition (2020/21), we have been recommended in numerous practice areas, including:
- Banking and finance
- Capital markets (debt), capital markets (equity)
- Project development
- Mergers and acquisitions (M&A)
The firm is strongest in project development and has robust banking and finance, capital markets and M&A practices.
The banking team is experienced advising clients such as international lenders, commercial banks, and borrowers on matters involving project finance, acquisition finance, debt restructuring, syndicated lending and regulatory compliance.
On the projects side, the firm has a focus on the energy, oil and gas, utilities, transport, mining and infrastructure sectors. It has a wealth of experience advising an array of clients across a broad spectrum of upstream, midstream, power, petrochemicals and mining exploration projects.
An eye-catching banking deal saw the firm advise a group of international clients on the landmark refinancing of an oil refinery project. The project was the country’s largest foreign investment project to date.
The corporate team recently acted for both buyers and sellers across a wide variety of industries.
The projects team was recently active for stakeholders such as contractors, sponsors and project companies. The firm advised on several newsworthy deals in the oil and gas sector; for example, it advised international clients on a confidential landmark project in the oil and gas sector.
In the 2021 edition, we have been recommended by Asialaw Profiles in numerous industry sectors and practice areas, including:
Industry sectors:
- Banking and financial services
- Energy
- Infrastructure
Practice areas:
- Banking and finance
- Capital markets
- Corporate and M&A
- Dispute resolution
- Labour and employment
Lexcomm is a full service commercial law firm particularly well-known for its expertise in energy and infrastructure. It has recently expanded its practice into dispute resolution and is newly featured in our ranking table. Ba Linh Pham, Viet Ha Nguyen and Van Trung Luong are key individuals.
Appointed to act as lead Vietnam counsel to a group of international energy companies in a $9 billion oil refinery refinancing project. It is the biggest foreign investment project in the country to date.
Advised leading commercial banks on a complex debt restructuring and distressed debt sales.
Advised Inspired Education Holdings on acquiring a minority share of ACG Education’s Vietnam subsidiary.
Assisted An Phat Holdings in the cross-border acquisition of TLC Korea.
Represented on behalf of Uber before Vietnam Competition Council in 2019 in relation to the sale of its ride-hailing business to Grab.
Retained by Coherent Vietnam to advise on employment-related matters.
Advise Ariston Thermo Group on a variety of employment issues, including internal labour arrangements and compliance, cross-border training and secondment arrangement within the group.
In the 2021 edition, we have been recommended by Benchmark Litigation Asia Pacific in the following practice areas:
- Energy and Construction
- Commercial and Transactions
- Labour and Employment
- International Arbitration
“The dispute resolution offering at Lexcomm pairs well with its market-leading corporate and transactions practice. The team, based across two offices in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, is well-versed in various forums of dispute resolution management, and includes experienced litigators and arbitrators. The practice covers a host of areas such as financial services, domestic and international arbitration, investment, energy, insurance, post-M&A and tax disputes, and even product liability claims.
A triumvirate of partners lead the disputes team as practice heads: Trung Luong Van, Ha Nguyen Viet and Hai Nguyen Hong.
A key matter for the team was its role advising two Vietnamese respondents in a SIAC-seated dispute over an alleged breach of a share purchase agreement, shareholders’ agreement and company manager’s duty. The team successfully persuaded the tribunal to accept less than 30% of the indemnity claim, which was equivalent to less than 3% of the original total claim value. This was a landmark case that set precedent in an international tribunal by recognising that Vietnamese laws have similarities with the Common Law regarding certain rules, principles and damage calculations.
In another seminal case that is currently at the appellate stage, the firm represented rideshare giant Uber in the first-ever economic concentration case that has gone to trial in Vietnam. Upon the outcome of this case, the government will have to introduce the new antitrust law to tighten up its competition rules.”
In the 2020 edition, we have been recommended by Legal 500 in numerous practice areas, including:
- Banking and finance
- Projects and energy
Lexcomm Vietnam LLC
Lexcomm Vietnam LLC's banking and finance team is led by new partner and capital markets expert Nguyen Ngoc Quy in Hanoi, who joined from Allen & Overy Legal (Vietnam) LLC. The group has experience in project finance, corporate finance and regulatory work. Managing partner Pham Ba Linh in Ho Chi Minh is skilled in the energy and project space, advising clients on complex financing and acting for foreign investors.
The 'knowledgable' team at Lexcomm Vietnam LLC provides a comprehensive projects and energy service, with a particular core strength in upstream oil and gas.
Overseen by Pham Ba Linh in Ho Chi Minh City and Nguyen Viet Ha in Hanoi, the group covers high-value renewable energy matters, petrochemicals and mining work for high-profile clients.
The team is supported by a handful of senior associates such as Le Lien Huong, who is notable for her advisory work to sponsors of power plant projects. Nguyen Hong Hai has energy disputes expertise.
Testimonials
‘This is a good team with good knowledge, high commitment to clients, and always meeting the deadline.’
‘Pham Ba Linh has great knowledge of oil and gas, banking and infrastructure industry and provides valuable advice.’
In the 2020 edition, we have been recommended by Chambers Asia Pacific in the following practice areas:
- Projects, Infrastructure and Energy
- Technology, Media and Telecoms (TMT)
What the team is known for [Projects, Infrastructure and Energy]
Growing presence in the energy and infrastructure sector, with especially strong knowledge in natural resources mandates. Expertise includes upstream oil and gas matters and the development of coal-fired power projects. Often handles project financing, structural and transactional matters relating to BOT projects. Lends its PPP expertise to projects mandates.
Strengths
Market sources enthusiastically praise the firm, noting: "They are responsive and resourceful and can easily recognise the international considerations."
One client reports that they select the practice for its "breadth and depth of technical legal ability to advise across upstream oil and gas, energy, project finance and infrastructure," adding: "This law firm is a top choice for strategic oil and gas, LNG and power projects in Vietnam."
Notable practitioners
Sources report that Ba Linh Pham is "widely regarded in Vietnam as a market-leading energy and project finance lawyer." He is praised for "doing a fantastic job on complicated matters" and his "in-depth understanding of best market practices in this area." He has extensive experience in the energy sector, frequently assisting clients with both conventional and renewable energy projects. He is often sought after for his expertise in upstream oil and gas, pipelines and LNG matters.
Hanoi-based Viet Ha Nguyen is experienced in assisting clients with infrastructure, telecommunications and BOT power projects. He is a proven expert in project finance and frequently advises clients on coal-fired and renewables projects.
What the team is known for [Technology, Media and Telecoms]
Recognised as a growing presence in this area, especially in relation to telecoms. Advises on network, satellite, mobile and licensing issues, as well as outsourcing and entertainment-related matters. Particularly experienced in the film and television space, frequently acting for broadcasters. Nguyen Viet Ha is the main point of contact for the firm's practice.
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In the 2020 edition, we have been recommended by IFLR1000 in numerous practice areas, including:
- Banking and finance
- Capital markets (debt), capital markets (equity)
- Project development
- Corporate and M&A
Although Lexcomm is active across the financial and corporate space in Vietnam, the firm shines in terms of its project development work.
During the research period the banking acted for international lenders, commercial banks, borrowers, on matters involving loan facilities, debt restructuring, and syndicated lending.
In capital markets work the firm advised on bond work and notably acted for a corporate issuer in private placement offerings of senior secured notes.
A noteworthy M&A mandate saw the firm acting for the seller in the largest M&A transaction in fintech in Vietnam to date.
On the projects side the firm has a focus on the energy, oil and gas, utilities, transport, mining, and infrastructure sectors.
The firm has a wealth of experience in advising an array of clients across a broad spectrum of upstream, midstream, power, petrochemicals, and mining exploration projects.
An eye-catching mandate saw the firm acting as lead Vietnamese counsel to a group of international energy companies for the development and financing of Vietnam’s largest foreign investment project to date.
The firm also advised the sponsors on the development of a “first of its kind” LNG-to-power project in Vietnam.
Client feedback
“Highly professional and knowledgeable.” – Banking and finance
“I have worked with the 2 principle partners (Pham Ba Linh and Nguyen Viet Ha) for over 20 years. They are strong lawyers, particularly in energy and infrastructure.” – Project development
“I've known Lexcomm for 3-4 years and this law firm is a top choice for strategic oil and gas, LNG and power projects in Vietnam.” - Project development
“Experienced staff. Good insight on government policies and industry trends” - Project development
“The Lexcomm team are excellent. While they have a solid grasp of the local law, they are able to apply this in a very commercial manner suitable for international clients. They are extremely responsive too, which helps on fast moving issues.” – Project development
Pham Ba Linh
“Strong in energy advisory.”
“Pham Ba Linh is widely regarded in Vietnam as a market-leading energy and project finance lawyer with an in-depth understanding of best market practices in this area."
"Ba Linh has a high reputation for complex upstream oil and gas with his great industry knowledge and his legal advice is valuable, practical and has commercial implication/solution as well.”
“Knowledgeable, professional, communicative, risk aware and a problem solver.”
In the 2020 edition, we have earned an accreditation of the prestigious Asialaw Profiles 2020 confirming our firm's elite status as a "Highly Recommended Firm" in the Vietnam legal market.
Our firm has made tremendous strides in Asialaw Profiles 2020, and is ranked prominently across its key practice areas, including banking and finance, capital markets, corporate and M&A, energy and infrastructure.
In particular, our award-winning, highly talented and technically skilled Banking and Projects lawyers have achieved Asialaw's top rankings "Highly Recommended" in Energy, "Recommended" in Infrastructure and "Recommended" in Capital Markets, demonstrating our exceptional market position and diverse strength as the Vietnam counsel of choice to provide strategic, insightful and pragmatic legal advice to high-profile clients in their most complex cross-border transactional and contentious matters in Vietnam.
Advising mandated lead arrangers on a $300 million multi-tranche syndicated secured borrowing base facility.
Advising a group of foreign energy companies on all aspects of the development and financing of an oil refinery project valued at $9 billion, which is known to be Vietnam’s largest foreign investment project to date.
Advised BIDV MetLife on a proposed investment in VND-denominated bonds issued by a corporate issuer in Vietnam.
Advised Vietnam Australia International School on the divestment of its interests valued at nearly $100 million.
