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:
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
- Labour and Employment
- Dispute resolution - Arbitration
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
- Employment
- Dispute Resolution
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 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.
The banking and finance and capital markets teams welcomed partner Quy Nguyen, who joined the firm from Allen & Overy.
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.”
Lexcomm Vietnam LLC has won, for a second year in a row, In-House Community/Asian-Mena Counsel "Vietnam Firm of the Year 2021" awards for the strategically important practice areas of (1) Energy and Natural Resources and (2) Projects and Project Financing.
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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 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 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.
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.
In the 2019 edition, we have been recommended as a leading law firm in Vietnam by Legal 500 in the following practice areas:
- Banking and finance
- Corporate and M&A
- Projects and energy
- Telecoms, media and technology (TMT)
In particular, Lexcomm Vietnam LLC is ranked a market-leading Tier 1 law firm in Projects and Energy by Legal 500 for 2019, 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 the Vietnam market.
Lexcomm Vietnam LLC advises international clients on high-profile transactional and contentious matters.
Lexcomm Vietnam LLC's team is 'responsive and practical on top of its technical ability'.
Lexcomm Vietnam LLC provides 'a very high level of service, market insight and genuine industry expertise in this space - the advice is always to the point'.
Pham Ba Linh is 'a go-to lawyer for Vietnam energy advice - he understands the industry and what is going on in the market'.
He [Pham Ba Linh] and Nguyen Hong Hai handle work including new-to-Vietnam oil and gas exploration projects and transactions concerning existing blocks, as well as work as local counsel on major energy projects for international energy companies.
Nguyen Viet Ha advised Vietnam Electricity, a cornerstone client, on the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contracts required for the Nghi Son 1 and Thai Binh coal-fired power stations.
Le Lien Huong is a key senior associate. The firm also advises on transport infrastructure megaprojects.
Luong Van Trung and Nguyen Viet Ha advised Vietnam Australia International School on its sale to TPG.
The firm advises service providers and their clients' IT and telecoms-related issues, as well as various media and entertainment issues.
Practice leader Nguyen Viet Ha handles work including outsourcing, procurement, telecoms and technology projects.
At Lexcomm Vietnam LLC, Pham Ba Linh advised the mandated lead arrangers of a $300m multi-tranche syndicated loan, and assisted VP Bank Finance Company with a $50m senior secured loan on APLMA terms.
Distressed debt and private placements are other areas of expertise.
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In the 2019 edition, we have been recommended as a leading law firm in Vietnamby Chambers Asia Pacific in the following practice areas:
- Projects, Infrastructure & Energy
- Technology, Media, Telecoms (TMT)
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.
The team's creative approach is commended by sources, who report: "Their quality and responsiveness are both high and they think laterally, which is really positive."
Clients also note the "experienced and dynamic partners" at the firm and highlight its "strength in energy and natural resources matters."
Clients say: "They deeply understand Vietnamese laws and international practice."
Further sources praise the firm's business acumen, describing the team as "responsive, sensible and commercial."
Pham Ba Linh is well regarded for his energy sector expertise, encompassing both traditional and renewable projects. Interviewees praise his "wide and deep knowledge in the energy and oil and gas industries," also noting that "he thoroughly understands clients' business needs and provides practical advice."
Nguyen Viet Ha is well placed to assist clients with BOT projects in the energy sector, as well as telecoms-related matters. His recent work includes advising power companies on the development of coal-fired power projects.
Recognised as a growing presence in this [TMT] area, especially in relation to telecoms. Advises on network, satellite, mobile and licensing issues, as well as outsourcing and entertainment related matters. Frequently acts for broadcasters as well as telecoms groups.
Nguyen Viet Ha is the main point of contact for the firm's [TMT] practice.
International Financial Law Review 2019
In the 2019 edition, we have been recommended by IFLR1000 in the following practice areas:
- Banking and finance
- Project development
- Corporate and M&A
"Lexcomm Vietnam is a full-service law firm with branches in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.”
" The firm is best known for its projects work and also practices in banking and finance and M&A."
“In banking, the firm has experience in acting for both the sponsor and lender on matters such as project finance, asset finance, leveraged and acquisition finance, and corporate finance.”
“In the projects space the firm is focused on energy and infrastructure and acts across a broad spectrum of upstream, midstream, power, petrochemicals, and mining exploration projects.”
“I find Lexcomm to be responsive and always willing to go the extra mile.” - Banking and finance
"Lexcomm Vietnam is one of the best law firms that we have worked with in the last three years.” - Project development
“Lexcomm and [Pham Ba] Linh are our first priority in list of the law firms we will be considering to be our legal consultant for the deal." - Project development
"High quality practice with dedicated and committed practitioners.” - Mergers and acquisitions
"Service minded, knowledgeable and professional."
"Top quality, particularly in oil & gas and energy."
"Intensive experiences in construction projects and EPC contracts, project financing and telecommunication."
In the 2019 edition, we have been recommended by Asialaw Profiles in the following practice areas:
- Energy
- Infrastructure
- Capital markets
"Lexcomm is a preeminent full-service commercial law firm particularly known for its expertise in energy and infrastructure."
“Lexcomm Vietnam is a dynamic firm with experienced lawyers in energy, oil and gas, infrastructure and project financing.”
"The partners have a thorough knowledge of both Vietnamese laws and business as well as international expertise."
“Excellent work! Lexcomm provided us assistance in relation to Vietnam oil and gas laws and regulations.”
“Lexcomm Vietnam has very good expertise and experience in EPC contracts in energy projects.”
“I strongly recommend Lexcomm and [Pham Ba] Linh in particular for advising large-scale Vietnam energy development projects.”
“Pham Ba Linh is one of the best energy and infrastructure lawyers in Vietnam of whom I highly rate for his legal expertise and strong industry knowledge in the Vietnam upstream oil and gas industry.”
“Wow, Ba Linh is a very experienced lawyer in oil and gas, energy, infrastructure and project financing.”
"I have worked with Ba Linh for over ten years in oil & gas projects. He contributes a lot of practical advice to our project."
“Mr [Nguyen Viet] Ha has wide and deep knowledge and experiences in energy and Infrastructure projects, especially the power projects.”
Benchmark Litigation 2019
In the 2019 edition, we have been recommended by Benchmark Litigation in the following practice areas:
- Energy and Construction
- Commercial and Transactions
- Labour and Employment
"Lexcomm handles a full spectrum of dispute matters with a particular strength in the areas of commercial and transactions, energy and construction and labour and employment.
Energy and construction-related disputes proved to be a key area for the firm.
The team is prompt, practical, easily understandable and experienced
Hong Hai Nguyen is recommended for commercial and energy disputes.
Ba Linh Pham is highlighted for energy and international arbitration.
He [Nguyen Hong Hai] is prompt, practical and experienced.”
Lexcomm Vietnam LLC’s energy, project finance and infrastructure practice head Pham Ba Linh has won the "Outstanding Practitioner: Vietnam" category of the prestigious Asialaw Regional Awards 2019 held on Thursday night 30 May 2019 at the Island Shangri-La in Hong Kong.
The award comes on the heels of Ba Linh being internationally recognised as one of the very top few "Leading Individuals" lawyers for Projects and Energy in Vietnam by Legal 500 Asia Pacific 2019, demonstrating our Project Finance team's first-class legal expertise, client focus and strategic vision to assist clients in navigating Vietnam regulatory waters.
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Vietnam-based preeminent full-service commercial law firm Lexcomm Vietnam LLC is awarded the prestigious accolade of 2019 Leading Energy and Infrastructure Financing Lawyer of the Year, Vietnam by Acquisition International.
In the 2018 edition, we have been recommended as a leading Vietnamese law firm by Legal 500 in the following practice areas:
- Banking and finance
- Corporate and M&A
- Projects and energy
- Telecoms, media and technology (TMT)
“Lexcomm Vietnam LLC’s team is helpful regarding various issues in the petroleum and energy sector, such as production sharing contracts, taxes, gas and renewables.”
"…advises international oil companies on block developments and farm-ins regarding oil and gas blocks…"
"…serves as local counsel for developers of gigawatt-plus coal fired power stations…"
"…advised the lead arrangers on the Vietnamese law aspects of a $300m syndicated facility…"
"Other work concerns debt restructuring."
"The firm also acts for water plant developers and road constructors."
“Work in the transport space includes…advising a contractor on the Ho Chi Minh City Metro Line 1 project.”
"…handles buy-side and sell-side M&A work for local and international clients…"
“…advise a foreign buyer on a proposed purchase of a listed pharmaceutical company…”</
