LPA Law Expands Footprint in Vietnam Through APFL Merger
Deal News | Mar 05, 2025 | EIN
LPA Law, a prominent French law firm, has expanded its presence in Asia through a merger with Vietnam-based APFL Partners. This strategic tie-up establishes LPA's presence in Vietnam, one of the region's fastest-growing economies, ensuring seamless client support for international investment projects and cross-border activities. APFL, with 13 lawyers, offers expertise in corporate and commercial law, M&A, banking, finance, and dispute resolution. The merger marks a significant milestone for LPA Law, which aims to be the leading French-speaking law firm in the region. Economic growth in Vietnam, driven by its role as a regional manufacturing hub, has fueled foreign direct investment, making it an attractive market for international law firms. The merger reunites key personnel from both firms with a shared history at Gide Loyrette Nouel. APFL has been noted for its corporate, disputes, and projects work, advising notable firms like CMA-CGM and the Casino Group.
Sectors
- Legal Services
- Mergers and Acquisitions
- Foreign Direct Investment
Geography
- Vietnam – Vietnam is the location of APFL Partners and the market focus of the merger, which involves expanding legal services in this fast-growing economy.
- France – France is the home country of LPA Law, the firm expanding its operations into Vietnam.
Industry
- Legal Services – The merger involves law firms LPA Law and APFL Partners, thereby directly relating to the legal services industry.
- Mergers and Acquisitions – The article discusses a merger between LPA Law and APFL Partners, categorizing it under the M&A industry.
- Foreign Direct Investment – Vietnam's economy, highlighted for its FDI attraction, is central to the context of the merger, impacting legal and commercial landscapes.
Financials
- $38.2 billion – Record high foreign direct investment in Vietnam last year, indicative of the country’s economic growth and attractive legal market.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| LPA Law | Bidding Company | Company | A French law firm expanding its presence in Asia through the merger with APFL Partners. |
| APFL Partners | Target Company | Company | Vietnam-based law firm with expertise in corporate and commercial law, M&A, and more. |
| Frédéric Bailly | Managing Partner | Person | Managing partner of LPA Law leading the firm's expansion efforts in Asia. |
| Arnaud Bourrut-Lacouture | Co-Managing Partner | Person | Co-managing partner, responsible for LPA's operations in Vietnam. |
| Nicolas Audier | Former Managing Partner | Person | Former managing partner of APFL, now a senior counsel. |
| Nicolas Picard | Senior Counsel | Person | Senior counsel at APFL, involved in the firm's transition. |
| Bernadette Fahy | Senior Counsel | Person | Senior counsel at APFL, supporting advisory services. |
| Etienne Laumonier | Current Partner | Person | One of APFL's current partners. |
| Antoine Logeay | Current Partner | Person | Current partner at APFL. |