news story Archives - Page 6 of 12 - RIAA Barker Gillette

Faisal Spinning Mills signs renewable wind plant deal to cut energy costs

Posted on January 26, 2024 - 3:33 pm by Penny Dewar

Our client, Faisal Spinning Mills Limited (FSML), recently signed an agreement with Orient Energy Systems Private Limited (Orient Energy) to establish a 4.5MW renewable wind power plant in Nooriabad.

RIAA Barker Gillette (Pakistan) acted for FSML on this renewable captive power project. We advised on regulations, taxation and other key areas and represented FSML in price negotiations, delivery, and performance liquidated damages. Our legal counsel covered assessing and mitigating risks, identifying opportunities and bringing the transaction to fruition.

The agreement comes at a time when implementing sustainable energy solutions is becoming increasingly necessary for industries across Pakistan. As grid electricity and fuel costs continue rising, textile, cement, and other energy-intensive industries are turning to sustainable captive power. Wind and solar plants provide attractive options to supplement and replace grid electricity and fuel generators.

“We were privileged to play an integral role in this renewable energy project between FSML and Orient Energy by providing strategic legal counsel and contributing to our client’s adoption of a forward-thinking and environmentally sustainable energy solution.”
Bilal Shaukat, the Managing Partner of RIAA Barker Gillette (Pakistan)

RIAA Barker Gillette (Pakistan) is at the forefront in advising numerous textile, cement, and FMCG companies in their pursuit of captive renewable power solutions.

We look forward to continuing our work in shaping the future of sustainable energy solutions for industries across the industry.

Please contact Managing Partner Bilal Shaukat for legal advice on implementing a renewable wind plant or other sustainable energy solutions for industries.

This article is not legal advice; it provides information of general interest about current legal issues.

RIAA Barker Gillette is Pakistan’s premier law firm, with an on-the-ground presence in four major cities in Pakistan: Karachi, Islamabad, Lahore, and Peshawar, and affiliated offices in Dubai (DIFC) and London.

The firm practices in all areas of corporate, commercial and dispute resolution law. Leading international legal directories consistently recognize the firm as a top-tier law firm in Pakistan.

RIAA Barker Gillette is the exclusive member firm in Pakistan for Lex Mundi, the world’s leading network of independent law firms with in-depth experience in over 125 countries worldwide.

RIAA Barker Gillette represent Turkish soda ash exporters in an anti-dumping duty dispute

Posted on November 21, 2023 - 3:57 pm by Penny Dewar

RBG represent Turkish Soda Ash Exporters a major component in the manufacture of glass.

We represent Turkish manufacturers in litigation proceedings to determine the legality of anti-dumping duties imposed on imports into Pakistan of disodium carbonate, commonly known as soda ash, an essential raw material for manufacturing glass. Imposing such duties would increase the cost of glass, a major material used in the construction industry.

At the request of Pakistan’s domestic industry, the National Tariff Commission (NTC) decided to investigate soda ash imports. We represented Turkish manufacturers in contesting these proceedings. The NTC terminated the investigation, agreeing with our argument that the import period was too short for a meaningful assessment and that the available data did not support the conclusion that the imports had adversely impacted the domestic industry.

Significant players in Pakistan’s domestic industry then challenged the decision of the NTC in appeal proceedings before the Anti-Dumping Appellate Tribunal (the Tribunal). Our representation of Turkish exporters continued, and the Tribunal directed the NTC to revise the investigation period and make a new determination.

The domestic industry challenged the decision of the Tribunal before the Islamabad High Court, where we currently represent the Turkish exporters.

In the intervening period, the NTC, which had become inactive due to its members’ retirement earlier this year, has resumed operations by appointing new members and a Chairperson. It can now act on any directions the Islamabad High Court gives in the pending proceedings.

Our team acting on this matter is led by Pakistan partners Mazhar Bangash and Yousaf Khosa, who Senior Litigation Counsel Omair Saleem Malik, Associates Momin Taufiq Khan and Khushbakht Naeem and Junior Associate Saman Shahrukh assist.

For further information, contact Mazhar Bangash, Head of Trade Law.

This article is not legal advice; it provides information of general interest about current legal issues.

The firm practices in all areas of corporate, commercial and dispute resolution law. Leading international legal directories consistently recognize the firm as a top-tier law firm in Pakistan.

RIAA Barker Gillette is the exclusive member firm in Pakistan for Lex Mundi, the world’s leading network of independent law firms with in-depth experience in over 125 countries worldwide.

RIAA Barker Gillette wins case against stay order on abuse of process grounds

Posted on November 21, 2023 - 2:15 pm by Penny Dewar

text image on our win against a stay order

Grant Thornton Anjum Rahman (“GT”) is a leading professional services firm in Pakistan providing assurance, tax and advisory services. GT is organised as a partnership firm under the Partnership Act 1932. We have been advising GT on a dispute with one of its former partners (the “Disputing Partner”),

In early 2023, the Disputing Partner was found guilty of misconduct by GT and expelled. The Disputing Partner sought to challenge the expulsion by means of a suit at the Sindh High Court. In these proceedings, he sought an interim injunction, commonly known as a ‘stay order,’ suspending the expulsion. The High Court did not grant the stay order at the first hearing after our intervention.

Several months later, the Disputing Partner moved another such application before a different Judge and obtained an order suspending his expulsion at an ex parte hearing. The earlier application for interim injunction was not disclosed to this Judge at this hearing.

We moved an intra-court appeal challenging the grant of the stay order in June 2023, during the annual summer vacations of the High Court. On our urging, the Division Bench was minded to hear and decide the appeal as an urgent case during vacations.

As per judicial precedent, appellate Courts refuse to interfere with the grant of ad-interim relief in first-instance proceedings. The Courts take the position that only orders deciding applications for interim injunction can be challenged in appeal.

Shahbakht Pirzada, Partner in our Dispute Resolution practice, represented GT in the appeal, which was argued over the course of two months. The appeal confined itself to grounds of abuse of process, eschewing any argument on the merits of the expulsion. The Division Bench pronounced judgment in favour of GT and vacated the stay order granted to the Disputing Partner. The reasoned judgment of the High Court is a welcome addition to the substantial body of judicial precedent on abuse of process, requirements of fair disclosure and standards of propriety that a litigant applying for injunctive relief must observe, notwithstanding the merits of the underlying dispute.

Pakistan partner Shahbakht Pirzada argued the matter.

If you require advice on partnership or other commercial disputes, contact Shahbakht Pirzada today.

This article is not legal advice; it provides information of general interest about current legal issues.

The firm practices in all areas of corporate, commercial and dispute resolution law. Leading international legal directories consistently recognize the firm as a top-tier law firm in Pakistan.

RIAA Barker Gillette is the exclusive member firm in Pakistan for Lex Mundi, the world’s leading network of independent law firms with in-depth experience in over 125 countries worldwide.

Partner Omer Soomro appointed as Minister

Posted on August 20, 2023 - 8:37 am by Penny Dewar

As widely reported in the press, Omer Soomro was yesterday appointed Minister for Law, Religious Affairs and Human Rights in the caretaker Provincial Cabinet of Sindh.

Omer is a highly regarded advocate. He became a Partner at RIAA Barker Gillette in 2009 and headed our dispute resolution practice in Karachi. His appointment is a testament to his expertise, integrity and commitment to public service.

Omer Soomro will not be practising law with the firm during his term in office. Designated partners will handle the matters for which he was responsible to ensure continuity of client service.

We congratulate Omer on adding this latest achievement to his distinguished career. He previously served for two terms as Honorary Secretary of the Sindh High Court Bar Association.

All of us at RIAA Barker Gillette wish Omer the very best as he embarks on this important appointment in service to the people of Sindh.

For more information, contact Mayhar Kazi today.

This article is not legal advice; it provides information of general interest about current legal issues.

The firm practices in all areas of corporate, commercial and dispute resolution law. Leading international legal directories consistently recognize the firm as a top-tier law firm in Pakistan.

RIAA Barker Gillette is the exclusive member firm in Pakistan for Lex Mundi, the world’s leading network of independent law firms with in-depth experience in over 125 countries worldwide.

Endeavor Global expands into Pakistan

Posted on August 18, 2023 - 9:01 am by Penny Dewar

Endeavor Global is a leading global community that selects, supports and invests in high-impact entrepreneurs to build thriving entrepreneurial ecosystems in emerging and underserved markets worldwide. Endeavor Global has recently established a presence in Pakistan by setting up a new non-profit entity, Endeavor Pakistan. This marks their 40th office globally, a major milestone in Endeavor’s mission to support economic growth through entrepreneurship.

We played a pivotal role in licensing and incorporating Endeavor Pakistan as a not-for-profit Section 42 company. This new office is anchored by strong founding members who are leaders in major businesses, multinationals and venture capital funds in Pakistan. With deep roots across multiple industry sectors in Pakistan, Endeavor Pakistan aims to support high-potential entrepreneurs in the country.

Our team is currently assisting Endeavor Global and Endeavor Pakistan with obtaining necessary permissions for foreign funding, ensuring adherence to local laws and regulations to pave the way for Endeavor’s smooth expansion into the Pakistani market.

Our corporate partner, Shafaq Rehman, leads the team advising Endeavor Global and Endeavor Pakistan.

“Our association with Endeavor Global reinforces is a testament to our capability to serve the new generation of tech and entrepreneurship driven businesses thriving in Pakistan. We understand the unique challenges and opportunities presented here and are excited to play a role in enabling the next wave of entrepreneurial success in the country.”
Shafaq Rehman, Corporate Partner, RIAA Barker Gillette

We look forward to supporting Endeavor’s growth in Pakistan. Our expertise helps emerging companies and non-profits successfully navigate complex regulatory environments while pursuing expansion. We provide strategic advice to empower innovative ventures.

Contact Shafaq Rehman today for legal advice on Pakistan’s startups, emerging businesses and non-profits.

This article is not legal advice; it provides information of general interest about current legal issues.

The firm practices in all areas of corporate, commercial and dispute resolution law. Leading international legal directories consistently recognize the firm as a top-tier law firm in Pakistan.

RIAA Barker Gillette is the exclusive member firm in Pakistan for Lex Mundi, the world’s leading network of independent law firms with in-depth experience in over 125 countries worldwide.

Restraining injunction secured for SAPT

Posted on August 17, 2023 - 1:42 pm by Penny Dewar

We recently achieved a significant win for our client, South Asia Pakistan Terminals Limited (SAPT), Pakistan’s largest container terminal operator, by obtaining a restraining injunction against Karachi Port Trust (KPT) in an ongoing dispute.

SAPT is the country’s first deep-water container terminal, designed to accommodate super post panamax ships. The US$1.4 billion terminal operates as a partnership between Hutchison Ports Pakistan, a member of the Hutchison Ports network, and Karachi Port Trust.

SAPT and KPT had entered into an agreement for SAPT to construct and operate Pakistan’s first deep-water container terminal at Kemari, Karachi. Under the agreement, both parties took on obligations tied to an implementation schedule. As security for meeting its obligations, SAPT provided a $2 million performance guarantee to KPT.

The parties’ obligations were interdependent under the agreement – delays by one party inevitably delayed the other. However, despite this interdependency, KPT claimed SAPT failed to meet agreed completion dates. Due to the alleged delays, KPT threatened to draw down on SAPT’s $2 million guarantee funds.

As counsel for SAPT, we filed suit in the Sindh High Court seeking an injunction to prevent KPT from taking the guarantee funds. The Court granted an ad-interim order restraining KPT from calling on SAPT’s guarantee.

This was an important result for SAPT, as courts rarely restrict parties from drawing on guarantees and set a high bar for granting such relief. Our Dispute Resolution Partner, Omer Soomro, called the order “a significant victory protecting our client’s rights while it continues to work to resolve a complex, high-value dispute with a state entity.”

The team acting for SAPT was led by Pakistan partner Omer Soomro.

Contact Omer Soomro today if you require our assistance on a complex commercial dispute or to seek a restraining injunction.

This article is not legal advice; it provides information of general interest about current legal issues.

The firm practices in all areas of corporate, commercial and dispute resolution law. Leading international legal directories consistently recognize the firm as a top-tier law firm in Pakistan.

RIAA Barker Gillette is the exclusive member firm in Pakistan for Lex Mundi, the world’s leading network of independent law firms with in-depth experience in over 125 countries worldwide.

Review to shape sustainable shipping in Pakistan

Posted on August 17, 2023 - 11:41 am by Penny Dewar

We have been mandated by the Pakistan Regional Economic Integration Activity on behalf of USAID to undertake a crucial review of green shipping practices in Pakistan, analyzing laws and regulations to develop recommendations for reducing environmental impact and promoting sustainable shipping practices in Pakistan.

Leveraging our maritime and environmental law expertise, we are conducting a comprehensive review of existing legal and policy frameworks, relevant international conventions, industry best practices and diverse stakeholder perspectives. The goal is to develop practical and tailored recommendations attuned to Pakistan’s context to inform the adoption of greener alternatives within the shipping industry.

The wide-ranging study will assess legislative measures to curb emissions, boost the adoption of renewables, and implement energy-efficient marine technologies. By engaging public and private stakeholders, it seeks to build consensus on transitioning towards sustainable shipping practices in Pakistan.

“This timely review will help shape evidence-based policies enabling the shipping sector to grow responsibly,”
Mazhar Bangash, Partner and Head of the International Trade Practice at RIAA Barker Gillette

The study will provide valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities around green shipping in Pakistan. Its findings will aim to shape future policies, regulations and initiatives to create a more sustainable, resilient and economically thriving shipping industry aligned with global environmental commitments.

As the study progresses, we will continue collaborating closely with partners for an impactful outcome. The findings will aim to provide a crucial roadmap to align the shipping industry with environmental stewardship goals.

The team undertaking this study is led by Mazhar Bangash (Partner – Pakistan) and includes Momin Taufiq (Associate), and Saman Shahrukh (Junior Associate).

To learn more about our International Trade practice, please contact Mazhar Bangash.

This article is not legal advice; it provides information of general interest about current legal issues.

The firm practices in all areas of corporate, commercial and dispute resolution law. Leading international legal directories consistently recognize the firm as a top-tier law firm in Pakistan.

RIAA Barker Gillette is the exclusive member firm in Pakistan for Lex Mundi, the world’s leading network of independent law firms with in-depth experience in over 125 countries worldwide.

SECMC wins key litigation protecting Thar Coal project

Posted on August 17, 2023 - 6:58 am by Penny Dewar

The Sindh High Court recently dismissed a constitutional petition filed by local residents challenging the establishment of a reservoir to store groundwater extracted from sub-surface aquifers to enable open-pit coal mining in Tharparkar. This judgment protects a key component of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) priority Thar lignite mining and power generation project.

We acted for Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company (SECMC), a joint venture between the Government of Sindh, Engro Corporation, and other leading Pakistani companies. The USD 2 billion project, the first of its kind in Pakistan to achieve financial close, involves mining one of the world’s largest lignite deposits and establishing coal power stations.

The petitioners argued that the establishment of the reservoir would damage the environment and wildlife and contravene land acquisition laws. As SECMC’s counsel, we successfully resisted an interim injunction that could have delayed the project.

During the case, the High Court constituted a committee that confirmed that the reservoir would not have an adverse environmental impact on the ambient area and groundwater. SECMC also demonstrated rigorous site selection and that alternate reservoir sites would violate Pakistan’s Ramsar Convention obligations on wetland conservation.

The Court recognised SECMC’s extensive development work for displaced locals, including healthcare, education, and employment initiatives. it was satisfied by studies showing that water quality in the reservoir was similar to nearby drinking wells.

After examining all reports, the Court upheld the legality of the land acquisition and dismissed unproven claims of environmental damage. “This judgment upholds the legality and environmental sustainability of a project vital for Pakistan’s energy security,” said Mayhar Kazi, Partner at RIAA Barker Gillette.

Pakistan partner Mayhar Kazi led the team that secured this significant victory.

This judgment enables SECMC to continue its essential work powering Pakistan’s growth. We are proud to support the project’s success. Should you require our assistance with a complex commercial dispute, please contact Mayhar Kazi.

For more information on how we can help you, speak to partner Mayhar Kazi today.

This article is not legal advice; it provides information of general interest about current legal issues.

The firm practices in all areas of corporate, commercial and dispute resolution law. Leading international legal directories consistently recognize the firm as a top-tier law firm in Pakistan.

RIAA Barker Gillette is the exclusive member firm in Pakistan for Lex Mundi, the world’s leading network of independent law firms with in-depth experience in over 125 countries worldwide.

Working capital financing for Punjab Thermal Power

Posted on February 1, 2023 - 1:05 am by riaabgmanager

RIAA Barker Gillette has advised a syndicate of banks on providing Punjab Thermal with funded working capital financing facilities (approximately PKR 5 billion in total).

Punjab Thermal Power (Private) Limited, which the Government of Punjab wholly owns, is developing a 1,263 MW combined cycle RLNG-fired power plant in Jhang, Punjab.

We advise a syndicate of banks, including Meezan Bank Limited, on providing funded working capital financing facilities to Punjab Thermal Power (for a cumulative amount of approximately PKR 5 billion) to enable payments to the gas supplier.

For more information on power projects, contact Managing Partner Bilal Shaukat.

For further details, read the following article.

This article is not legal advice; it provides information of general interest about current legal issues.

The firm practices in all areas of corporate, commercial and dispute resolution law. Leading international legal directories consistently recognize the firm as a top-tier law firm in Pakistan.

RIAA Barker Gillette is the exclusive member firm in Pakistan for Lex Mundi, the world’s leading network of independent law firms with in-depth experience in over 125 countries worldwide.

RIAA Barker Gillette (Pakistan) engaged to advise on major highway projects

Posted on February 1, 2023 - 12:56 am by riaabgmanager

We are pleased to announce that the consortium comprising RIAA Barker Gillette, Exponent Engineers (Private) Limited, Global Environmental Management Services, and IQ Capital Plus has been awarded the contract for conducting the feasibility study and providing transaction advisory services for the development of dual carriageway highway projects from Tando Muhammad Khan to Sujawal (est. 80.7km), and Hyderabad to Tando Ghulam Ali (est. 68.4km) under public-private partnership. The contract was awarded by the Works and Services Department, Government of Sindh, after a competitive bidding process.

Managing partner Bilal Shaukat will lead our project team, including partner Nadir Altaf and associate Mahnoor Javed.

The highways will vastly improve transport infrastructure in southern Sindh and enhance linkages between urban and rural economies. We look forward to working with the Government of Sindh on this project.

For more information, call Bilal Shaukat today.

This article is not legal advice; it provides information of general interest about current legal issues.

The firm practices in all areas of corporate, commercial and dispute resolution law. Leading international legal directories consistently recognize the firm as a top-tier law firm in Pakistan.

RIAA Barker Gillette is the exclusive member firm in Pakistan for Lex Mundi, the world’s leading network of independent law firms with in-depth experience in over 125 countries worldwide.

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Category Archives: news story

Faisal Spinning Mills signs renewable wind plant deal to cut energy costs

RIAA Barker Gillette represent Turkish soda ash exporters in an anti-dumping duty dispute

RIAA Barker Gillette wins case against stay order on abuse of process grounds

Partner Omer Soomro appointed as Minister

Endeavor Global expands into Pakistan

Restraining injunction secured for SAPT

Review to shape sustainable shipping in Pakistan

SECMC wins key litigation protecting Thar Coal project

Working capital financing for Punjab Thermal Power

RIAA Barker Gillette (Pakistan) engaged to advise on major highway projects

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