Corporate/M&A: Thailand

Managing partner Simon Makinson is widely acclaimed by market sources. He recently advised Navis Capital Partners on the USD41 million acquisition of its stake in Dunkin' Donuts and Au Bon Pain by Sub Sri Thai.

Suparerk Auychai is noted for his solid track record in advising on heavy-hitting M&A transactions. He recently advised Singapore Telecommunications on its proposed purchase of an interest in Advanced Info Service from Shin Corporation.

Arkrapol Pichedvanichok acted for Siam Cement on the sale of its stake in PTT Chemical in a transaction valued at THB33 billion. Sources highlight his top-drawer experience and knowledge in this sector.

Highly respected amongst the Thai banks, Weerawong Chittmittrapap's top-notch defence of clients' interests and vast experience across the Thai market have cemented his seasoned position.

Chinnavat Chinsangaram represented Recap Investments in its purchase of Mercury Tower, an office block in the heart of Bangkok's central business district.

Peangpanor Boonklum draws profuse praise for her expertise in this sector. In addition to representing the chairman of Thainox in the USD346 million sale of the Mahagitsiri family’s 60% stake in Thainox Stainless to POSCO, she has also recently advised such clients as Charoen Pokphand Foods and Kiatnakin.

Kitipong Urapeepatanapong is a highly respected practitioner who wins plaudits for "his knowledge and passion." "He helped us a lot in our project in Thailand," an interviewee remarks.

Described as "capable and very shrewd," Sorachon Boonsong has a notable presence in this arena. He recently represented an international firm in its acquisition of shares in a large Thai company.  

Noted for his international expertise, Stephen Bennett recently advised Cedar Holdings on the sale of its shares in Shin Corporation to institutional investors, in a transaction valued at around USD300 million. He also represented Thai Rail Investments in the USD120 million sale of its shares in BST Group Holding to Keeree Kanjanapas.

Wilailuk Okanurak is lauded for her experience in handling telecommunications-related transactions. She was the lead partner representing Solar Power Company in the disposal of 40% of its shares in three solar projects to Ratchburi Electricity Generating Holding.

Pichitpon Eammongkolchai is recognised for his broad expertise, which includes corporate/M&A, real estate, and banking and finance. Clients are quick to highlight his thoroughness and approachable manner.

Head of department Ratana Poonsombudlert continues to be sought out by the likes of Akara Mining. Sources highlight her strong knowledge of local laws and expertise on mid-tier transactions.

Andrew Matthews is noted by sources for his pragmatic and innovative problem-solving approach. He recently advised Takachiho Koheki on its purchase of the entire share capital of Tyco Fire Security & Services.

Montien Bunjarnondha is one of a number of LS Horizon lawyers who act regularly in Laos, though based in the firm's Bangkok office. An expert in banking and finance transactions, he "is experienced, understands the legal framework in Laos well and gives good legal advice."

Sunpa-a-sa Sunpasiri is also based in Thailand and has worked on a variety of financial issues related to Laos. Recent work highlights include advising a major Laotian company on a recent share offer.

Chatchavej Chitvarakorn is the key contact for Siam Premier. The firm has more than two decades of experience in the Thai corporate market and has taken the lead in an impressive range of transactions over the years. In a recent highlight the firm represented McGraw-Hill in its purchase of a stake in Tris Rating from the Asian Development Bank.

Chanvitaya Suvarnapunya is the principal contact at the firm. DLA Piper has a strong reputation in handling corporate transactions related to the real estate and insurance sectors. Of late it advised Amazon Falls on the establishment of a Cartoon Network water theme park in Pattaya, valued at THB1 billion. 

The key contact partner for the team is Somboon Kitiyansub. This firm has solid experience in a wide range of corporate transactions across the region. The team recently advised HSBC on the sale of its Thai retail banking and wealth management business to Bank of Ayudhya. This transaction involved working closely with its international offices, including teams from Shanghai, Hong Kong and Singapore.

Cynthia Pornavalai has a wealth of experience in working with Japanese clients in the Thai market. Her fluency in Japanese positions her as a go-to name for such mandates. In addition to the Japanese deal outlined above, she also assisted a major name in the Japanese food industry to acquire 100% ownership of its Thai joint venture firm.