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How to Obtain Seaport Investment Licenses in Vietnam: Step-by-Step Guide

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The process of obtaining seaport investment licenses in Vietnam requires careful attention to legal requirements and procedures. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential steps and considerations for securing your seaport investment license.

1. Introduction to Seaport Investment in Vietnam

Vietnam’s maritime sector has become increasingly attractive to foreign investors, with the government actively promoting private investment in port infrastructure. Understanding the licensing process is crucial for successful market entry.

Current Investment Climate

  • Growing demand for port infrastructure: With the rise in economic and trade activities, the demand for port infrastructure is increasing. This not only drives the construction and upgrading of ports but also creates a need for maritime transport and logistics support services.
  • Supportive government policies for foreign investment: Government investment support policies, especially for foreign investors, play an essential role in creating an attractive investment environment. Tax incentives, financial support, and administrative procedure simplifications help minimize risks and investment costs.
  • Strategic location in Southeast Asian shipping routes: Vietnam is strategically positioned within Southeast Asia’s shipping routes, providing favorable conditions for connectivity with major markets in the region. This location optimizes logistics and trade activities, contributing to the sustainable development of seaports.

2. Prerequisites for License Application

Before initiating the application process, investors must ensure they meet several fundamental requirements:

Basic Requirements (Chapter II, Decree No. 37/2017/ND-CP)

  1. Enterprise Requirements:
  • Must be a business established under Vietnamese law.
  • If the enterprise has foreign investment and engages in container handling services as part of maritime transport support services, the foreign investor’s capital contribution must not exceed 50% of the charter capital, as regulated by law.
  1. Organizational Structure and Human Resource Requirements:
  • Organizational Structure: The enterprise must have a maritime security management department as required by law.
  • Human Resources: Port security officers must be trained, certified, and meet the standards set by the Minister of Transport, in accordance with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.
  1. Infrastructure and Equipment Requirements:
  • The enterprise must have adequate facilities, warehouses, yards, and equipment that meet national technical standards for seaports.
  • If the port does not have warehouses or yards, the enterprise must have a lease agreement for such facilities (except for floating docks, anchorage areas, transshipment zones, and offshore oil and gas ports).
  • Compliance with occupational safety and fire prevention regulations must be ensured.
  1. Environmental Protection Requirements:
  • The enterprise must have adequate means to receive, collect, and treat ship-generated waste in compliance with the MARPOL Convention and other environmental protection regulations.
  • All environmental protection documents for the port must be approved by competent authorities following the Environmental Protection Law 2020 and Decree 08/2022/ND-CP.

3. Required Documentation

A complete application package must include the following documents:

Essential Documents (Clause 1, Article 10, Decree No. 37/2017/ND-CP)

  • Application form requesting the Certificate of Eligibility.
  • Business registration certificate: A certified copy or a copy with the original for comparison, or an electronic copy from the original register, or a certified electronic copy from the original.
  • List of key positions and labor contracts: A certified copy or a copy with the original for comparison, or an electronic copy from the original register, or a certified electronic copy from the original.
  • Port operation plan of the enterprise: A certified copy or a copy with the original for comparison, or an electronic copy from the original register, or a certified electronic copy from the original.

4. Step-by-Step Application Process

Follow these sequential steps to secure your seaport investment license: (Article 10, Decree No. 37/2017/ND-CP)

Step 1: Consultation and Initial Preparation

Before starting, businesses should thoroughly research legal, technical, and market requirements; conduct field surveys; consult with experts; and draft a detailed investment plan.

Step 2: Preparing the License Application

  • Gather all required documents as per regulations.
  • Prepare any additional documents required by local authorities or specific requests from the Vietnam Maritime Administration.

Step 3: Submitting the Application

Enterprises submit the application for the Certificate of Eligibility to the Vietnam Maritime Administration through one of the following methods:

  • Direct submission at the competent authority.
  • Via postal services.
  • Through the online public service system or other appropriate methods.

Step 4: Application Receipt and Review

  • The Vietnam Maritime Administration receives the application.
  • If the application is incomplete, within 02 working days from the date of receipt, the authority will guide the enterprise to complete the application as required.
  • If the application is complete, the Vietnam Maritime Administration will issue a receipt.

Step 5: Evaluation and Verification of the Application

  • Within 07 working days from the date of receiving a complete and valid application, the Vietnam Maritime Administration will conduct an evaluation and review process.

Step 6: Issuance of the Certificate of Eligibility

  • Following the evaluation, the Vietnam Maritime Administration will decide on the issuance of the Certificate of Eligibility for port operation.
  • The certificate will be sent to the enterprise directly, via postal services, through the online public service system, or by other appropriate means.
  • In case of rejection, the authority will provide a written explanation stating the reasons for denial.

Step 7: Project Implementation and Compliance

After obtaining the license, the enterprise must implement the project according to the approved plan while complying with safety, environmental protection, and legal obligations.

5. Timeline and Fees

Process Stage Timeline Associated Fees
Pre-approval consultation 1-2 months Administrative fees
Initial application review 45-60 days Application processing fee
Final approval 30-45 days License issuance fee

6. Common Challenges and Solutions

Typical Obstacles

Investors often encounter these common challenges:

  1. Documentation Complexity: The licensing and port investment process requires businesses to prepare a large volume of documents, including legal, technical, and financial evidence. These documents must be certified, accurate, and complete according to regulatory requirements. The complexity of documentation can lead to application rejections due to missing or incorrect information.

Solutions:

  • Collaborate with legal experts: Experienced maritime investment lawyers can help businesses review and complete documentation to ensure compliance with all applicable regulations.
  • Establish a robust internal process: Companies should implement thorough document verification procedures before submission to minimize errors and omissions.
  1. Administrative Delays: Processing times at regulatory agencies are often prolonged due to complex administrative procedures and high document volumes. This can cause unexpected delays, affecting project timelines and investor confidence.

Solutions:

  • Maintain frequent communication with authorities: Establishing clear communication channels and proactively tracking the application status helps businesses stay informed and adjust contingency plans if necessary.
  • Prepare contingency plans: Identifying potential risks and formulating solutions for delays can minimize adverse impacts on the project.
  1. Technical Requirements: The operation of seaports requires businesses to meet stringent technical standards for safety, environmental protection, and operational efficiency. Lack of experience or failure to comply with these standards can lead to operational risks, regulatory violations, and even severe incidents.

Solutions:

  • Partner with professional design and operational firms: Companies experienced in port design, construction, and operation can ensure that projects adhere to national and international technical standards.
  • Invest in internal capacity building: Training personnel, engineers, and operational teams enhances self-sufficiency in project management and operations.

7. Post-Approval Requirements

After obtaining the license, investors must comply with ongoing obligations:

  • Regular progress reports submission
  • Project monitoring: Regular reporting enables regulatory bodies to closely track project implementation, ensuring activities align with approved plans and commitments.
  • Early issue detection: Periodic reports help identify and address delays, errors, or arising issues in a timely manner.
  • Transparency: Providing regular updates fosters transparency between investors and regulators, enhancing trust and facilitating support when needed.
  • Environmental compliance monitoring
  • Environmental protection: Monitoring ensures port operations do not negatively impact ecosystems or public health.
  • Regulatory compliance: Environmental supervision is a legal requirement, ensuring all project activities align with current environmental laws and standards.
  • Legal risk mitigation: Fulfilling environmental obligations helps investors avoid legal violations, penalties, or operational suspensions.
  • Safety standard maintenance
  • Ensure safety for employees and customers: Safety standards protect the lives and health of workers and port users.
  • Minimize accident risks: Adhering to safety standards prevents accidents, incidents, and potential operational hazards.
  • Legal compliance: Safety regulations are strictly enforced by law, so maintaining these standards prevents legal penalties and ensures stable operations.
  • Operational permit renewals
  • Regulatory updates: License renewal allows authorities to reassess the company’s compliance with legal, safety, and environmental requirements.
  • Operational continuity: Timely renewal ensures businesses can legally continue operations without disruption due to license expiration.
  • Management quality improvement: The renewal process often involves evaluations and adjustments that enhance port operations’ efficiency and sustainability.

8. Expert Tips for Success

  • Establish strong local partnerships: Partnering with local businesses, organizations, and government entities helps companies gain market insights, receive necessary support, and reduce bureaucratic barriers.

Specific benefits:

  • Access to customer, supplier, and potential partner networks.
  • Better understanding of local regulations and administrative procedures.
  • Enhanced credibility and negotiation leverage in regulatory interactions.
  • Maintain transparent communication with authorities: Frequent and clear communication keeps businesses informed of policy changes, regulatory updates, and procedural requirements.

Specific benefits:

  • Minimizes risks from misinformation or delays.
  • Builds trust with regulatory agencies, facilitating smoother administrative processes.
  • Enables prompt resolution of operational issues.
  • Plan for long-term operational requirements: Port investment requires careful planning beyond licensing, including operational sustainability.

Specific benefits:

  • Identifies necessary resources (workforce, equipment, and infrastructure) to ensure efficient and sustainable operations.
  • Prepares for operational risks, minimizing negative business impacts.
  • Enhances adaptability to market, technological, and regulatory changes.
  • Stay updated on regulatory changes: The maritime industry frequently undergoes regulatory and technical standard updates. Keeping up with these changes ensures legal compliance and operational efficiency.

Specific benefits:

  • Ensures compliance with the latest regulations, avoiding fines or suspension.
  • Enables businesses to adjust strategies in response to policy shifts, safety standards, and environmental regulations.
  • Strengthens reputation and competitiveness by demonstrating a commitment to compliance and industry best practices.

9. Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What is the minimum investment capital required?

    Currently, there are no specific legal requirements for the minimum capital needed to operate a seaport. Investment capital primarily depends on the project’s scale, nature, and financial requirements for effective implementation.

Small-scale port investment projects typically require a minimum of $10 million USD (equivalent to hundreds of billions of VND).

  1. How long does the entire process take?

    From the initial application to full port operation, businesses typically require 2–3 years. After that, the project enters long-term operation with scheduled maintenance and upgrades as per regulatory and strategic planning requirements.
  • 3. Are there restrictions on foreign ownership?

    Foreign capital contribution limits: If the port-operating company is a foreign-invested enterprise engaged in container handling services, regulations stipulate that foreign investors cannot own more than 50% of the company’s charter capital. This means foreigners can contribute up to half, with the remainder controlled by domestic investors.
  • Other regulatory requirements: Beyond capital restrictions, foreign-invested enterprises must comply with legal, organizational, human resources, infrastructure, equipment, and environmental protection regulations under Vietnamese law. These may include training certification, safety standards, and other administrative requirements related to the maritime and port operation sector.

10. Conclusion

Obtaining a seaport investment license in Vietnam requires careful planning, thorough documentation, and patience. Success depends on understanding the regulatory framework and maintaining compliance throughout the process.

Need professional assistance? Contact Harley Miller Law Firm for specialized legal consultation in port development and personalized guidance through the licensing process.

Minh Nguyễn Hoàng

Strategic Seaport Planning in Vietnam: Comprehensive Development Guide

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Vietnam’s strategic location in Southeast Asia has positioned it as a crucial maritime hub, making effective seaport planning essential for sustainable economic growth. This comprehensive guide explores the intricacies of seaport planning in Vietnam, providing valuable insights for stakeholders in the maritime sector.

1. Introduction

1.1 Overview of Vietnam’s Seaport Sector

According to Saigon Giai Phong newspaper, the Vietnam Maritime Administration reports that Vietnam’s seaport system currently has 286 ports, categorized into five port groups, with a total berth length exceeding 96 km. These ports accommodate a throughput of over 706 million tons, playing a crucial role in the country’s economic development. The sector has witnessed significant growth, handling increasing cargo volumes year over year and supporting Vietnam’s export-driven economy.

According to the Vietnam Maritime Administration, by 2030, Vietnam’s seaport system is expected to handle 1,140–1,423 million tons of cargo (including 38–47 million TEUs of containerized cargo) and 10.1–10.3 million passengers. Looking ahead to 2050, Vietnam’s seaport system aims to be comprehensively developed, modernized, and on par with regional and global standards.

1.2 Importance of Strategic Planning

Also, according to Saigon Giai Phong, to achieve this goal, the investment demand for the seaport system by 2030 is approximately VND 313 trillion (covering only commercial cargo handling terminals), primarily mobilized from non-budgetary sources, corporate investments, and other legitimate funding channels. Public funds will be focused on public maritime infrastructure, key areas that create ripple effects, and investment attraction.

Additionally, strategic seaport planning is crucial for ensuring sustainable development, optimizing resource allocation, and maintaining competitiveness in the global maritime industry. Well-planned ports contribute to reduced logistics costs, improved trade efficiency, and enhanced regional connectivity.

1.3 Current State of Port Development

According to the Ministry of Transport of Vietnam, the maritime industry is a highly specialized sector with significant international integration. Over the years, maritime infrastructure, particularly port infrastructure, has played a vital role in supporting national economic growth and fostering international trade and integration. With improving port service quality and increasing demand for maritime transport in Vietnam, major shipping lines have established direct routes connecting Vietnam with other global destinations.

Vietnam’s Lach Huyen Port has received vessels up to 132,000 DWT, while Cai Mep-Thi Vai Port has handled ships up to 214,000 DWT, equivalent to over 18,000 TEUs. From Cai Mep-Thi Vai, nearly 40 weekly shipping routes operate, including 18 to Europe and the Americas and 10 intra-Asia services, gradually positioning Vietnam as a key link in the global maritime supply chain.

While seaport development has contributed significantly to socio-economic growth, pollution mitigation measures remain limited. The transition to “green port” operations, balancing environmental concerns with economic development needs, is essential. Vietnamese ports are undergoing rapid modernization, with several major developments in progress. The government’s master plan emphasizes the development of deep-water ports and specialized facilities to accommodate larger vessels and increasing cargo volumes.

2. Legal Framework for Seaport Planning

2.1 Key Regulations and Laws

The legal framework for seaport planning in Vietnam is governed by several key instruments:

  • Vietnam Maritime Code (2015 and its amendments)
  • National Seaport Master Plan for 2021–2030, Vision to 2050
  • Decree No. 58/2017/ND-CP, detailing several provisions of the Vietnam Maritime Code regarding maritime activities management
  • Circular No. 08/2021/TT-BGTVT, issuing national technical regulations on seaports

2.2 Government Agencies Involved

Vietnam’s legal framework clearly defines the authority of state agencies in maritime management, including:

  • The Government: Overall state management of maritime affairs
  • Ministry of Transport: Responsible for implementing state management of maritime affairs
  • Vietnam Maritime Administration: A specialized agency under the Ministry of Transport, executing state management in maritime affairs as prescribed by law
  • Other Ministries and Agencies: Collaborate with the Ministry of Transport within their respective competencies to implement state management of maritime affairs
  • Local People’s Committees: Implement state management of maritime affairs within their jurisdictions

In addition to the Vietnam Maritime Code, Decree No. 58/2017/ND-CP details specific state management agencies at seaports (Article 3, Clause 5):

  • Maritime Administration
  • Customs Authority
  • Border Guard (Seaport Border Control)
  • Health Quarantine, Animal Quarantine, and Plant Quarantine

3. Strategic Planning Components

3.1 Master Plan for Seaport System Development (Articles 81 & 82, Vietnam Maritime Code)

  • The national seaport master plan must comply with planning regulations and be based on defense, security, demand, resources, and global maritime development trends.
  • When formulating seaport-related plans, ministries, agencies, and provincial authorities must seek written opinions from the Ministry of Transport.

3.2 Strategic Planning Components (Decision No. 886/QD-TTg)

  1. Seaport Infrastructure Development:
  • Planning and Adjustments: Formulate and adjust the National Seaport System Development Master Plan (2021–2030, vision to 2050) to align with national master planning.
  • Infrastructure Investment: Prioritize budget allocation for central public investment projects (2026–2030) to develop port infrastructure and attract private investment for planned projects.
  • Land and Water Use: By 2030, total land demand is projected at 33,600 ha, with 606,000 ha of water area.
  1. Legal Framework Enhancement:
  • Legislative Amendments: Review and propose amendments to the Vietnam Maritime Code (2015) and related decrees and circulars to facilitate effective seaport infrastructure development and management.
  • Pricing and Fee Policies: Improve regulations on port service pricing to enhance investment efficiency, attract international transshipment cargo, and balance national and stakeholder interests.
  • Open Port Policy: Develop regulations and guidance on open port policies for key terminals such as Lach Huyen, Cai Mep-Thi Vai, and Van Phong.
  1. Human Resource Development:
  • Training and Talent Attraction: Develop policies to train and attract high-quality maritime personnel, particularly in port management and operations.
  • International Collaboration: Strengthen partnerships with international organizations and stakeholders to develop maritime human resources.
  1. Science and Technology Advancement:
  • Modern Technology Adoption: Promote digital transformation and advanced technologies in maritime infrastructure development, aligning with Industry 4.0 trends.
  • IT System Development: Invest in and expand Vietnam’s National Single Window for electronic ship clearance and port operation management.
  1. Environmental Protection:
  • Sustainable Development: Prioritize green port development, modernizing the fleet with eco-friendly vessels, and implementing Vietnam’s climate commitments.
  • International Cooperation: Enhance partnerships in environmental research, disaster prevention, and climate change adaptation.
  1. National Defense and Security Assurance:
  • Island Port Infrastructure: Develop port facilities in island districts to support socio-economic development while ensuring national security and sovereignty.
  • Interagency Coordination: Strengthen collaboration among ministries, local authorities, and agencies to safeguard national security and maintain public order in port planning and operations.

4. Development Phases

4.1 Master Planning Process

The master planning process involves:

  1. Defining the planning tasks: 
  • Analyzing and assessing factors, natural conditions, resources, context, current distribution, and spatial use of Vietnam’s port infrastructure. 
  • Forecasting development trends, development scenarios, and climate change directly affecting port infrastructure during the planning period. 
  • Forecasting the development trends of science and technology impacting port development in Vietnam.
  1. Planning: 
  • Defining objectives and development perspectives for the port system. 
  • Proposing development plans for the port system, including port classification, development orientation for port groups, terminals, wharves, buoy berths, water areas, and navigable zones. 
  • Assessing the strategic environmental impact of the plan.
  1. Appraisal and approval of the plan: The Ministry of Transport submits the planning dossier to the Prime Minister for appraisal and approval in accordance with planning laws.
  2. Announcement and implementation of the plan:
  • After approval, the master plan for the development of Vietnam’s port system is publicly announced. 
  • Relevant agencies organize the implementation of the plan according to their assigned functions and tasks

4.2 Implementation Stages

Project implementation typically follows these stages:

  1. Planning and approval: 
  • Defining objectives, scope, and content of the plan. 
  • Conducting research, data collection, and current status analysis. 
  • Drafting the plan and gathering feedback from agencies, localities, and experts. 
  • Finalizing and submitting the plan for approval by the competent authority.
  1. Announcement and implementation: 
  • Announcing the approved plan for stakeholders to be informed and to execute accordingly. 
  • Developing a detailed implementation plan and roadmap. 
  • Assigning responsibilities to relevant agencies and units for the plan’s execution.
  1. Investment and development of port infrastructure: 
  • Listing priority investment projects according to the plan. 
  • Mobilizing and allocating investment capital from the state budget, enterprises, and other legal sources. 
  • Implementing investment projects for the construction, upgrading, and expansion of ports according to the plan.
  1. Monitoring, evaluation, and adjustment of the plan: 
  • Tracking and monitoring the implementation of the plan and investment projects. 
  • Evaluating the effectiveness and impact of the plan on economic, social, and environmental development. 
  • Proposing adjustments and supplements to the plan as necessary to align with actual conditions and national development strategies.
  1. Acceptance and project completion: After completing the planned components, conducting acceptance, evaluating effectiveness, and drawing lessons for future projects.

5. Investment and Funding

Port development requires substantial investment, with various funding options available:

Financing Options

  • Public Investment: The state allocates budget funds to invest in port infrastructure, particularly strategic projects that promote economic development and ensure national security. For example, according to Decision No. 886/QD-TTg dated July 24, 2023, the government prioritizes capital allocation in the medium-term public investment plan for implementing 29 maritime infrastructure development projects.
  • Private Sector Investment: Encouraging domestic and foreign enterprises to invest in port infrastructure through preferential policies and a favorable investment environment. According to the Government Electronic Newspaper, during the 2011-2020 period, the total investment for port infrastructure development reached approximately VND 202 trillion, of which 86% was non-budget capital.
  • International Development Loans: Utilizing concessional loans from international financial institutions such as the World Bank (WB) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to invest in port infrastructure. Vietnam has partnered with strategic allies such as Japan and South Korea and international organizations like JICA and ADB to attract port infrastructure investment capital.
  • Public-Private Partnership (PPP): A cooperation model between the state and the private sector in investing and operating port infrastructure, sharing benefits and risks among stakeholders. The government is studying investment incentives for projects using water areas and maritime zones to enhance investor attraction in maritime infrastructure development.

6. Best Practices and Case Studies

Several successful port developments in Vietnam offer valuable lessons:

Case Study: Lach Huyen Deep-Sea Port

According to Vnexpress, this modern deep-water port demonstrates successful implementation of:

  • Strategic location and reasonable planning: Lach Huyen Port is located in Cat Hai Town, Cat Hai District, possessing a prime location with convenient trade connectivity to domestic and international provinces and cities. According to the plan, this deep-water port complex covers an area of 2,000 hectares, has a 55 km coastline, and aims to reach a capacity of 100 million TEUs per year by 2030, along with a system of 15 modern terminals.
  • Capacity to accommodate large vessels: HICT Port can accommodate container ships up to 14,000 TEUs and general cargo vessels of 160,000 DWT, marking a breakthrough that enables Northern Vietnam’s import-export goods to be shipped directly to Europe and America without transshipment.
  • Operational efficiency and volume growth: Since its commencement in 2018, HICT Port has continuously grown in cargo throughput. In 2024, the port achieved a record throughput of over 1.6 million TEUs, significantly surpassing its initial designed capacity of 1.1 million TEUs. This affirms the port’s operational efficiency and its ability to meet the increasing market demand.
  • International cooperation and effective investment: HICT Port is the result of cooperation between Saigon Newport Corporation and international partners such as Mitsui O.S.K Lines (Japan), Wan Hai Lines (Taiwan), and Itochu (Japan). This partnership not only brought investment capital but also shared management experience and modern technology, enhancing port service quality.

7. Future Outlook and Recommendations

Key considerations for future port development include:

  • Adoption of smart port technologies: Implementing information technology and automation solutions in port management and operations to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance competitiveness. According to the Ministry of Transport, digital transformation not only optimizes processes but also creates transparency and flexibility in logistics activities.
  • Enhanced environmental sustainability measures: According to the Transport Journal, Vietnam’s maritime industry is striving to implement environmental protection measures and international commitments. Newly invested major ports are equipped with modern, automated cargo handling equipment powered by electricity, reducing labor costs, increasing productivity, and improving work efficiency while minimizing greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Improved regional connectivity: According to the Ministry of Transport, strengthening connectivity between ports and domestic transport systems, including roads, railways, and inland waterways, will help reduce transport costs and delivery times.
  • Development of specialized terminals (Decision No. 1579/QD-TTg): Improving mechanisms and policies for managing investment and exploitation of public and specialized maritime infrastructure funded by non-state budget sources to ensure maritime safety and security, effective exploitation, and meeting the overall development needs of ports.

Conclusion

Strategic seaport planning is crucial for Vietnam’s maritime sector development. Success requires careful attention to legal requirements, technical specifications, and environmental considerations while maintaining flexibility to adapt to changing market conditions.

Ready to begin your seaport development project? Contact Harley Miller Law Firm today for expert consultation and guidance throughout the planning process.

 

Minh Nguyễn Hoàng

We are delighted to endorse Denis Philippe as our exclusive Arbitration member & expert in Belgium

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Advisory Excellence, the world’s leading exclusive network of advisory professionals & firms is delighted to confirm that Denis Philippe will continue as our exclusive Arbitration member in Belgium.

Denis is one of the founding partners of Philippe & Partners. He has extensive experience in arbitration, banking and financial law, energy law, European law, insurance, torts and liabilities. He benefits from more than 30 years of professional experience in civil and commercial law and, more specifically, in drafting, reviewing and negotiating national and international contracts, as well as in transactions that include financing aspects.

From 1985 to 1998 Denis Philippe was partner at “Balon Buyle Maingain & Philippe” and from 1998 to 2000 he was partner at “Simonet, Kelder, Philippe, Domont, Lories & Mertens”. He is professor in banking and contract law at the University of Louvain and Paris and he is the author of various academic books, including a thesis on the change of circumstances in contract law and articles relating to privatisations. Denis has been appointed arbitrator by CEPANI and CCI and since 1985 he has been selected numerous times by the European Union to perform the function of expert for the implementation of European directives and for the approximation of legislation’s in Eastern European countries.

Denis Philippe is the current appointed arbitrator by the Arbitration Court of the Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce. He is also author of numerous publications on arbitration.

 

Denis Philippe

We are delighted to endorse Hélène Paty as our exclusive Banking & Finance expert in Benin

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Advisory Excellence, the world’s leading exclusive network of advisory professionals & firms is delighted to confirm that Hélène Paty will continue as our exclusive Banking & Finance expert in Benin.

Banking and finance is a highly sought-after area of law, with financial sectors worldwide relying on legal teams to keep them ship-shape.

Paty is a finance lawyer, graduated in Finance Administration and Risk Management. She is Certified Compliance.

Her practice covers Consulting activities in Banking & Finance (sovereign borrowing, capital markets, finance project etc.), Regulatory Compliance – Risk Management, as well as Legal Due Diligence.

She’s involved in international transactions with a sound experience in reviewing, commenting and structuring loan or facilities agreement(s) – finance documents and investment contracts from Benin – OHADA – WAMU and WAEMU laws perspective ; providing capacity legal opinions ; advising on and helping negotiate security documents relating to transactions: pledges of shares, mortgages, pledges of bank accounts- insurance ; assisting with registration of security and post-signing formalities in relation to the finance documents.

She provides corporate tax advisory services to businesses for best practice process implementation, included corporate tax compliance, reporting and restructuring, real estate taxation, indirect taxation/VAT, employment taxation, investment taxation and customs compliance.

A major portion of work in banking and finance is of a transactional nature. A return to a completed transaction becomes necessary when disputes arise. This constitutes the contentious element of a banking and finance lawyer’s work.

Attorney registered with the Benin Bar, Paty represents and assists clients in context of litigation and dispute resolution through friendly settlement, mediation, arbitration as well as court procedure. She’s the founder of DHP Avocats.

 

Hélène Paty Kounake

Miller (Minh Hoàng) joins Advisory Excellence as the exclusive M&A Law expert from Vietnam

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Advisory Excellence, the world’s leading exclusive network of advisory professionals & firms is delighted to announce that Miller (Minh Hoàng) has joined as our exclusive M&A Law expert from Vietnam.

Mr. Hoang Minh brings 18 years of extensive experience in asset management, wealth planning, investment advisory services, family law, and corporate law. His expertise encompasses managing high-net-worth portfolios, structuring investment vehicles, handling complex corporate transactions, and providing comprehensive legal and financial solutions for both individual and institutional clients.

He specializes in developing tailored asset management strategies and legal frameworks, focusing on wealth preservation, corporate restructuring, and growth through diversified investment approaches. His team has successfully managed numerous significant portfolio restructurings, mergers and acquisitions, and wealth transfer operations.

He holds multiple professional certifications, including a Fund Manager Certificate and a Law Practice Certificate. His dual expertise in legal and financial matters enables him to provide holistic wealth management solutions while ensuring regulatory compliance and legal protection for clients.

 

Minh Nguyễn Hoàng

Samah Abukhodeir joins Advisory Excellence as the exclusive Family Law expert from Florida, USA.

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Advisory Excellence, the world’s leading exclusive network of advisory professionals & firms is delighted to announce that Samah Abukhodeir has joined as our exclusive Family Law expert from Florida, USA.

Samah Abukhodeir is an experienced and highly regarded Family Law attorney based in Florida. She is the founder and managing attorney of The Florida Probate & Family Law Firm, where she leads a dedicated team assisting clients with a wide range of family law matters across the State.

Sam focuses her practice on divorce, child custody, child support, alimony, paternity, collaborative law, prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, post judgement actions and complex family law litigation. Known for her compassionate yet strategic approach, she helps clients navigate some of life’s most challenging transitions with clarity and confidence.

Sam earned her Juris Doctor from Florida International University College of Law. Her legal career began with invaluable experience clerking for the Honorable Marisa Tinkler Mendez and the Honorable Maria M. Korvick in the Eleventh Judicial Circuit of Miami-Dade County, experiences that strengthened her litigation and courtroom expertise.

In addition to her thriving practice, Sam is actively involved in the legal community as Vice-Chair of the Dade County Bar Association’s Probate and Guardianship Committee, a Florida Bar Real Property, Probate, and Trust Law Section Fellow, and an adjunct professor at Florida International University.

Fluent in English and Arabic, Sam brings cultural sensitivity and personalized attention to every client she represents. She has been consistently recognized as a Super Lawyers Rising Star from 2018 to 2023 and named to the Super Lawyers list for 2024 and 2025.

If you require specialized advice or representation in family law matters in Florida, contact Samah Abukhodeir using the details listed below.

 

Samah Abukhodeir