Chambers Asia Pacific (2016 Edition)
The rankings and editorials on R&T Asia (Thailand) released by the Chambers Asia Pacific are highlighted below.
Dispute Resolution (Band 3)
Ranked Lawyer - Surasak Vajasit (Band 2)
What the team is known for
Sizeable disputes practice, especially busy representing international clients on civil and administrative cases. Particular expertise in international trade, advising on contentious customs and anti-dumping issues. Additional capabilities in employment matters.
Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients)
"I think they're good, making aggressive moves in Thailand."
Work highlights
Advised Philip Morris on a THB460 million dispute with the Thai Customs Department concerning historical imports from Indonesia.
Represented Nippon Steel & Sumitomo Metal in safeguarding and anti-dumping proceedings.
Notable practitioners
Surasak Vajasit has acted on a number of high-value disputes. He is described by a market source as "a very senior guy whose expertise runs across many practice areas." He is especially skilled on contentious cross-border matters and recently took the lead representing Philip Morris in its THB460 million tax and customs dispute.
Significant clients Glow Group, DTAC, Semperit Technische Produkte.
Banking & Finance (Band 3)
Ranked Lawyer: Surasak Vajasit (Band 2)
What the team is known for
Leverages off the firm's regional strength, often advising Thai banks on cross-border financings. Notable areas of expertise include ship finance. Additional experience acting as counsel to international lenders on local issues.
Notable practitioners
Surasak Vajasit has significant experience providing local law advice on ship financing, and also advising on the acquisition and construction of vessels. In the past year, he has also worked with clients on financing in the resources sector and corporate guarantee issues.
Restructuring /Insolvency
Ranked Lawyer - Surasak Vajasit (Band 1)
Surasak Vajasit is the managing partner of Rajah & Tann (Thailand) Limited, and is widely considered to be an eminent figure in the market. Peers consider him "a standout lawyer," and report that he is "very good at restructuring work."