Maria Sit Secures Landmark Victory for Asia Cement in Hong Kong
Deal News | May 12, 2025 | Hogan Lovells
In a landmark legal victory, Maria Sit, a partner at Hogan Lovells, successfully defended Asia Cement Corporation (ACC) against allegations of an unlawful conspiracy in a case pursued by China Shanshui Cement Group Limited. The case, heard before the Hong Kong High Court, involved claims from Shanshui and its subsidiaries accusing ACC, China National Building Material Company Limited, and former directors of conspiring to maintain control of Shanshui through illegitimate means. After a 35-day trial, the Court dismissed these allegations, finding no proof of agency or misconduct by the directors involved, thereby reinforcing the legal benchmarks for unlawful means conspiracy claims in Hong Kong. This outcome is part of an ongoing, multi-jurisdictional dispute involving proceedings in Hong Kong and the Cayman Islands. The case highlights Hogan Lovells’ prowess in managing intricate, high-stake cross-border disputes.
Sectors
- Legal Services
- Construction Materials
Geography
- Hong Kong – The legal case was adjudicated in the Hong Kong High Court, highlighting its relevance to the region.
- China – China is relevant due to China Shanshui Cement Group Limited being a major Chinese cement producer.
Industry
- Legal Services – The involvement of Hogan Lovells and a complex litigation case contributes to the legal services industry classification.
- Construction Materials – Asia Cement Corporation and China Shanshui Cement Group Limited are significant players in the cement and construction materials industry.
Financials
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hogan Lovells | Legal Advisor | Company | A major law firm providing legal representation for Asia Cement Corporation. |
| Maria Sit | Partner at Hogan Lovells | Person | Lead litigation partner for the case, securing victory for Asia Cement Corporation. |
| Asia Cement Corporation (ACC) | Defendant | Company | A defendant in the lawsuit alleging unlawful control over Shanshui. |
| China Shanshui Cement Group Limited | Plaintiff | Company | A Hong Kong-listed company and one of China’s largest cement producers, pursuing legal claims against ACC. |
| Tianrui (International) Holding Co Ltd | Shareholder and Supporter | Company | Backing the new board which brought the claims against ACC. |
| China National Building Materials Company Limited | Co-Defendant | Company | Alleged co-conspirator in the claims raised by Shanshui. |