Author: brslawyers2017

Blumenthal Richter & Sumet (BRS) proudly acknowledges the dedication of Senior Associate Patsawut Waithanomsat and Associate Nuttanich Settasakol, who played key roles in the search, rescue, and recovery efforts following the recent earthquake in Thailand.

A certified firefighter and K9 handler/instructor, Patsawut volunteered with United SAR K9 to assist at the collapsed State Audit Office headquarters, the only major rescue site in Bangkok. When the earthquake struck, Patsawut was conducting a real estate due diligence in southern Thailand. Upon receiving an urgent official call for private-sector volunteers with trained search-and-rescue dogs, he immediately returned to Bangkok with his German Shepherd, Mimijung, to join the mission. As Search Mission Control Coordinator and Safety Officer, he ensured the safety of handlers and their highly trained K9 partners, which included German Shepherds, Belgian Malinois, Labradors, and a Beagle.

These humanitarian rescue dogs undergo more than two years of specialized training to detect survivors trapped beneath debris. Their ability to navigate hazardous environments and sense live humans was instrumental in guiding emergency teams to those in need. “In the first 72 hours, every second counts. These dogs are our lifeline, leading us to survivors before dehydration or injuries take hold,” said Patsawut.

Demonstrating extraordinary commitment, Patsawut spent three days at the disaster site, working tirelessly alongside first responders. He even returned directly to the BRS office from the rubble, covered in dust and minor injuries—an example of service and resilience.

Meanwhile, Nuttanich leveraged her legal expertise and crisis management experience to support the Bangkok Governor’s War Room at City Hall, where officials worked around the clock to coordinate response efforts. A former legal specialist for Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt before joining BRS’s Litigation Practice, Nuttanich played a critical role in processing and managing more than 15,000 earthquake-related reports between March 29–30, 2025. These reports covered urgent issues such as structural damage, infrastructure failures, and public safety concerns.

“In an emergency, clear communication and fast, accurate information processing are essential to an effective response,” said Nuttanich. “Beyond physical damage, concerns about the safety of apartments and office buildings have a deep impact on mental health. People need reassurance that their homes and workplaces are secure. Addressing these issues quickly helps restore confidence and stability.”

Blumenthal Richter & Sumet commends Patsawut, Nuttanich, Mimijung, and all the K9 and War Room teams for their dedication to the rescue and recovery efforts. Our thoughts are with those affected, and we recognize the strength of the Thai people and the Bangkok community in their recovery.

Blumenthal Richter & Sumet (BRS) has been ranked in Chambers Global 2025 for its Corporate/Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) practice, highlighting its strength in foreign direct investment and cross-border transactions. This recognition follows its continued ranking in Chambers Asia-Pacific for the 12th consecutive year, reinforcing the firm’s position as a trusted advisor to international businesses operating in Thailand.

BRS’s M&A team advises foreign and domestic clients across various industries, including technology, manufacturing, and services. Senior Partner Andreas Richter, together with Partners Stefan Riedl and Ekkarat Ritthiplang, work closely to provide foreign investors with strategic guidance and practical solutions. With their extensive combined expertise in corporate structuring, M&A, and foreign direct investment, they assist clients in navigating Thailand’s legal and regulatory landscape, ensuring smooth and effective market entry and business operations.

Stefan specializes in corporate structuring, M&A, and foreign direct investment, with a focus on transactional contract drafting and negotiations. Ekkarat, a highly regarded corporate law practitioner, plays a key role in facilitating investment transactions and ensuring seamless execution within Thailand’s regulatory framework. The firm’s international reach is further strengthened by its China Desk, led by Andreas Richter and Akemi Xie, a Chinese-licensed attorney, and its Japan Desk, led by Andreas and Ryo Sakata, a U.S.-trained and Japan-licensed attorney.

The Chambers Global ranking reflects BRS’s expertise in handling complex, multi-jurisdictional matters and its strong reputation in cross-border M&A and foreign investment. With a global client base and a team of internationally experienced lawyers, BRS remains a key partner for businesses navigating multi-jurisdictional challenges.

Senior Partner Andreas Richter stated, “Being ranked in Chambers Global is an important recognition for our firm, and we are truly honored. This achievement reflects the dedication and expertise of our team in delivering high-quality legal services to both domestic and international clients. However, our work does not stop here. True success comes from continuous effort and an unwavering commitment to creating value for our clients. This recognition reinforces our dedication to supporting the evolving landscape of deal-making in Thailand, and we look forward to the opportunities ahead.”

Blumenthal Richter & Sumet is pleased to announce that newly appointed partner Ekkarat Ritthiplang has been recognized as a Recommended Lawyer in The Legal 500 directory. This accolade comes in his first year as a partner, reflecting his growing reputation in Thailand’s legal market.

With over a decade of experience, Ekkarat is a trusted advisor to European, Chinese, Japanese, and Thai companies across industries such as automotive, transportation, manufacturing, hospitality, chemicals, and cosmetics. His expertise covers corporate and commercial transactions, foreign direct investment, and regulatory compliance, with a focus on mergers and acquisitions and business takeovers. He is well-regarded for his work with the Thai Board of Investment and other regulatory bodies, guiding clients through licensing, permitting, contract negotiations, and Thai labor and insurance laws.

Over the past year, Ekkarat has advised leading companies, including:

• A major beverage manufacturer and distributor on the entire business transfer of its Thai affiliate.
• Advising a client, Germany-based internationally recognized manufacturer of innovative and high quality space and water heating systems with annual revenue of over USD 52 million, on their new factory investment project in Thailand”.
• Numerous Chinese businesses entering the Thai market as a key member of the firm’s China Desk.

As part of the firm’s Corporate / M&A team, ranked in The Legal 500 for 2025, Ekkarat has been praised for his practical approach, accessibility, and ability to coordinate between foreign clients and Thai authorities. Clients describe him as providing “usable advice” and commend his responsiveness and problem-solving mindset.

Expressing his gratitude, Ekkarat stated, “I am honored by this recognition and sincerely thank our clients for their trust and positive feedback. Their support drives me to continue delivering high-quality legal services.”

Ekkarat represents the next generation of leadership at Blumenthal Richter & Sumet, bringing fresh perspectives and a commitment to excellence. His recognition by The Legal 500 underscores his standing as one of Thailand’s rising corporate lawyers.

The Legal 500 is a globally recognized legal directory that ranks law firms and lawyers based on client feedback, peer reviews, and independent research, serving as a benchmark for excellence in the legal profession.

Blumenthal Richter & Sumet is pleased to announce that three of our practice areas have been recognized in the distinguished Legal 500 Directory for 2025. Additionally, five of our lawyers have received individual rankings, reflecting the firm’s ongoing commitment to providing high-quality legal services.

The firm’s Real Estate practice, led by Senior Partner Robert Schuler and Partner Weerasa Makepongtorn, has been ranked for the twelfth consecutive year. This recognition underscores the team’s consistent delivery of strategic solutions in the real estate sector. Similarly, the Tax practice, headed by Senior Partner Mingmongkolmitr and Partner Promboon Sookatup, has been acknowledged for the eleventh year, highlighting their comprehensive approach to complex tax matters. The Corporate and M&A practice, led by Senior Partner Andreas Richter along with Partners Ekkarat Ritthiplang and Stefan Riedl, has also been ranked for the twelfth year, reflecting the team’s experience in navigating complex transactions.

Several of our lawyers have received individual distinctions. Robert Schuler and Sumet have been recognized as Leading Partners for the twelfth and eleventh consecutive years, respectively, reflecting their standing as experienced practitioners who lead on significant deals and are highly regarded by peers and clients. Andreas Richter has been acknowledged as a Recommended Lawyer for the tenth year, an accolade given to lawyers who are consistently recommended for their expertise and commitment to client service.

Ekkarat Ritthiplang, who was promoted to the firm’s partnership in 2024, received his first Recommended Lawyer commendation. Achieving this recognition early in his partnership reflects his growing influence and contributions to the firm. Senior Associate Sudarat Jirakietwattana, who supports Sumet in the firm’s Tax & Customs practice, received her first listing as a Leading Associate, after being listed as a Rising Star Associate, reflecting her active involvement in significant matters and recognition as an emerging talent.

The inclusion of new individuals such as Ekkarat  and Sudarat  in this year’s rankings highlights the development of Blumenthal Richter & Sumet’s next generation of legal professionals. Their recognition reflects the firm’s focus on nurturing talent and maintaining high standards of service.

The Legal 500 is an established legal directory that evaluates law firms based on comprehensive research, including feedback from clients and peers. Rankings are determined by the quality of legal services, team expertise, and notable case work.

Blumenthal Richter & Sumet thanks our clients for their continued trust and support. These recognitions reaffirm our commitment to delivering exceptional legal services and fostering long-term client relationships.

The recently released 2025 Chambers Asia-Pacific Guide has acknowledged Blumenthal Richter & Sumet’s excellence, applauding three of our practice areas and recognizing two of our esteemed lawyers.

The firm’s Real Estate Practice, led by Senior Partner Robert Schuler and Partner Weerasa Makepongtorn, has been ranked for the sixteenth consecutive year. Meanwhile, our Tax Practice, under the leadership of Senior Partner Sumet Mingmongkolmitr, has achieved its fifth ranking in this highly regarded directory.

Both practices have demonstrated significant growth over recent years, with the addition of a total of six lawyers to support an expanding client base that includes multinational corporations operating in Thailand, high-net-worth individuals, private equity firms, and major Thai institutions.

This year also marks the recognition of our Corporate/M&A Practice. Led by Senior Partner Andreas Richter and Partners Stefan Riedl and Ekkarat Ritthiplang, the practice had a very busy year assisting with the structuring and executing complex cross-border transactions. The team has advised on high-value acquisitions, joint ventures, and regulatory matters, with a strong focus on foreign direct investment in Thailand. The establishment of dedicated Chinese and Japanese Desks has further enhanced the firm’s ability to serve international clients, positioning the practice as a trusted advisor for businesses entering the Thai market.

Additionally, two of our lawyers have received individual commendations in the latest rankings. Robert Schuler has been honored for the ninth time, and Sumet Mingmongkolmitr for the eighth time, reflecting their continued leadership and expertise in their respective fields.

Chambers & Partners evaluates and ranks leading law firms and attorneys across over 200 jurisdictions. The rankings are based on in-depth research, including interviews with clients, industry experts, and legal professionals, providing a comprehensive analysis of technical expertise, client service, and value delivered.

As President-Elect Trump prepares to resume office, global trade dynamics continue to evolve and businesses worldwide are seeking ways to adapt and thrive. The United States tariffs on Chinese goods continue to affect supply chains, presenting both challenges and opportunities for businesses. For Chinese businesses and investors, these shifting landscapes present both challenges and opportunities. Thailand has emerged as a strategic and attractive destination for foreign direct investment (FDI), offering advantages such as proximity, robust infrastructure, and a supportive economic environment.

The enduring U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods have underscored the need for businesses to diversify their supply chains and reduce costs. Many Chinese manufacturers, especially those with export markets in the United States and Europe, are reconfiguring operations and exploring new production bases. Thailand, with its established industrial ecosystem and favorable policies, stands out as a key choice for such strategic realignment.

In addition to its logistical and economic advantages, Thailand’s Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with China further strengthens its appeal. This agreement facilitates reduced tariffs and streamlined trade between the two nations, enabling Chinese businesses to integrate seamlessly into the Thai economy while enhancing their competitiveness in global markets.

Thailand’s Competitive Advantage for Chinese Investors

Thailand offers a range of compelling benefits for Chinese businesses seeking to expand or relocate operations.

Key factors include:

•Robust Industrial Infrastructure: Thailand is home to a well-established industrial sector, including specialized zones like the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), which supports high-tech industries such as electric vehicles, electronics, and renewable energy.

•Government Incentives: Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI) offers attractive investment packages, including tax exemptions, streamlined permits, and access to critical resources. In 2022, the BOI reported a 42% year-on-year surge in investment applications, reaching a decade- high of $21.7 billion—a testament to the country’s growing appeal.

•Strategic Location: Located in the heart of ASEAN, Thailand offers easy access to regional markets and serves as a gateway to the broader Southeast Asian economy.

•China-Thailand Free Trade Agreement: The FTA between the two countries facilitates preferential trade terms, enhancing market access and reducing costs for Chinese businesses operating in Thailand.

The Eastern Economic Corridor: A Hub for High-Tech Investment

The EEC, covering the provinces of Rayong, Chon Buri, and Chachoengsao, has become a focal point for high-tech industries and foreign investment. Chinese enterprises, in particular, have shown growing interest in this area, leveraging its cutting-edge facilities and proximity to ports and global markets.

The EEC’s emphasis on industries like electric vehicles, robotics, and biotechnology aligns well with the goals of Chinese companies looking to expand into high-value sectors. Compared to other regional destinations, Thailand also boasts a skilled workforce, reliable energy infrastructure, and comprehensive government support—key factors for long-term success.

Partnering for Success in Thailand

Thailand’s strategic advantages, combined with the economic collaboration fostered by the China- Thailand FTA, make it a prime destination for Chinese investors navigating today’s global challenges.

Blumenthal Richter & Sumet’s China Desk specializes in guiding Chinese businesses through the complexities of investing in Thailand. From securing BOI incentives to ensuring full regulatory compliance, our team of experienced Thai and Chinese lawyers provides tailored turn-key support for establishing and expanding operations in the country.

By leveraging Thailand’s unique position in the global economy and the expertise of a trusted legal partner, Chinese investors can position themselves for sustained growth and success in a dynamic global economy.

Chinese automakers have disrupted Japan’s dominance of the Thai automotive market by introducing affordable electric vehicles, which cater to a growing demand for EVs in Thailand. Brands like BYD, Great Wall Motor, and SAIC Motor Corporation have made significant advances, offering fully electric models at competitive prices.

At the recent 2nd China New Energy Vehicle Industry Conference in Bangkok, Blumenthal Richter & Sumet (BRS) Senior Partner Andreas Richter delivered a highly regarded presentation, sharing strategic insights into Thailand’s EV sector for manufacturers and suppliers. Andreas outlined Thailand’s regulatory framework, compliance requirements, environmental standards, and key supply chain and labor considerations. He also provided guidance on risk mitigation in this competitive, rapidly evolving market.

The conference, which brought together over 350 Thai and Chinese officials, industry experts, and investors, created a platform for impactful exchanges aimed at strengthening the electric vehicle ecosystem in a country with a well-established automotive industry. Supported by BRS’s Head of China Desk, Akemi Xie, Andreas emphasized Thailand’s strong growth prospects for EVs as the nation advances towards sustainable transportation. He noted that this shift offers significant opportunities for foreign manufacturers to lead the industry transition.

The BRS China Desk, alongside the firm’s expert foreign direct investment team, is well-positioned to assist multinational companies in establishing a successful presence in Thailand’s dynamic EV sector.

Blumenthal Richter & Sumet is delighted to announce its recognition as a Notable Firm in Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) by the IFLR 1000 directory. This esteemed recognition highlights the firm’s excellence in managing complex cross-border M&A transactions in Thailand and the region.

This accolade follows Senior Partner Andreas Richter’s distinction as a Highly Regarded Individual in the same directory, reflecting his leadership and the firm’s dedication to providing outstanding M&A legal services. The firm’s Foreign Direct Investment team, led by Andreas, with the support of Partners Stefan Riedl and Ekkarat Ritthiplang, has been instrumental in executing high-profile cross-border transactions. Their combined expertise ensures the seamless structuring and negotiation of deals, particularly those involving European and North American  entities.

Blumenthal Richter & Sumet’s China Desk and Japan Desk have also been vital to the firm’s success, offering specialized guidance to clients from these markets as they navigate the intricacies of foreign direct investment in Thailand.

Andreas remarked, “We are honored to be recognized as a Notable Firm in M&A by the IFLR 1000. This accolade reflects the hard work and dedication of our entire team. I extend my thanks to Stefan and Ekkarat for their invaluable contributions. We look forward to continuing to deliver exceptional service to our clients as they pursue their international M&A objectives.”