Japan Desk

Japan and the European Union have strong economic relations within the G7.

Germany and Japan share fundamental values and have many political, economic and social ties. Both countries have a strong industrial base and a desire to fully partake in the opportunities digitalisation and technology offer. The long-standing industry and market knowledge of the members of our Japan Desk make us an ideal partner to help structure and carry out cross-border transactions and implement solutions for typically highly complex projects and dispute resolution.

Employment

We advise on all employment-related matters shaping and optimising corporate and operation structures

Compliance and investigations

We advise regulated companies and corporate groups on how to minimise the risks stemming from their business activities, in particular regarding compliance programmes, whistle blowing schemes, employee training programmes, internal audits, sanctions and customs, compliance infringements, prosecution and defence.

Corporate governance and co-determination

We advise on planning and setting up the corporate governance structures best suitable for the business, on co-determination and strategy, compensation and incentive models, ESG and the composition of governing bodies.

Data privacy

Germany and the EU have a strong data protection framework as part of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which provides for risks but also opportunities. We provide practical and technology-oriented advice.

Digitalization

We advise on the opportunities and legal challenges digitalisation means for businesses such as industry 4.0, artificial intelligence, big data, e-commerce, payment systems, IT outsourcing, cloud computing and cyber risk.

Financing

For any type of financing necessary for businesses and transactions our banking and finance team advises on equity and debt, alternative financings, efficient structuring and financial regulation.

Intellectual Property

We specialise in the safeguarding and use of industrial property rights and intellectual property and advise on how to proactively develop, reliably protect, commercialise and sustainably enforce your intellectual property assets.

Expansion

We advise companies on how to expand their production capabilities and in connection with distribution systems, supply chains, quality assurance and product safety.

Investment protection

Over 100 litigation specialists provide comprehensive support throughout Europe in successfully resolving national and international business disputes, such as post-M&A disputes, W&I insurance, D&O liability, cyber risks, antitrust disputes, product liability and safety, white-collar crime, compliance and investigations.

Regulatory framework

Being able to navigate the regulatory framework in Germany and the EU is essential. We advise at a national and EU level on FDI restrictions, antitrust and competition matters and antitrust investigations.

Transactions

M&A is one of our key strengths. As a transactional firm we advise nationally and cross-border on public and private takeovers, business combinations and joint ventures.