Chambers Asia Pacific (2018)

General Business Law - Band 2
General Business Law: International Firms - Band 2

Ranked Lawyer: Chester Toh (Band 2) - General Business Law: International Firms

What the team is known for 
Highly effective regional platform able to provide domestic and international law capabilities from its Yangon and Singapore offices. Particularly active in advising the consumer products sector on market entry and local franchising issues. Also has experience handling banking, project finance and joint venture matters in the region. Represents an impressive array of Myanmar corporates as well as blue-chip international clients.

Strengths 
Commentary emphasises the team's ability to advise on difficult areas of Myanmar law, with one client saying: "The lawyers are all very, very good. They've navigated the local legal landscape very well, so they're my go-to lawyers for a market where we are very challenged."

Clients laud the firm's comprehensive offering, with one effusing: "They are a lot quicker as they have a local lawyer on the ground and don't need to second work. They work well with the rest of R&T under the umbrella."

Work highlights 
Advised Creation Myanmar Group on forming an USD18.1 million joint venture with AEON to develop AEON-branded supermarkets in Myanmar.

Acted for Viz Branz in undertaking a joint venture with Myanmar GR for the manufacture and distribution of instant beverages in Myanmar.

Notable practitioners 
Chester Toh is recognised for his high levels of activity and broad range of work. He is popular with clients, one explaining: "He's great to work with, very informal and able to advise you on the customs and practices in Myanmar, as well as the law. He offers more than just the basic legal stuff, he gives a comprehensive look at things." He represented Myanma Awba Group as transactional and regulatory counsel regarding a USD10 million convertible facility from IFC.