Apisith John Sutham, the founder of Thai firm Apisith & Alliance, has joined its rival Weerawong Chinnavat & Partners as a counsel in Bangkok. Following his departure, Apisith & Alliance in January 2021 changed into a newly established firm AWP & Alliance.
Sutham brought his trade and customs practice team, comprising six legal professionals and trade analysts from the firm that he founded in 2002. Both Sutham and Apisith & Alliance were known for their strength in international trade litigation.
Sutham has experience representing Thai and foreign clients in anti-dumping and safeguard investigations, and advising industries on trade and investment strategy. He has also advised Thai and multinational clients on M&A and foreign investment.
“This merger creates a comprehensive platform of resources for our clients and our legal team – together we are better,” Sutham told Asia Business Law Journal. “We are uniquely positioned as an independent law firm with an extensive international network.”
Weerawong Chittmittrapap, senior partner at Weerawong Chinnavat & Partners in Bangkok, said that Sutham’s arrival was perfect timing, given the rise in trade disputes and trade remedies in the region, including anti-dumping, countervailing duty and safeguards.
“We have a shared commitment to providing strategic advice as a trusted adviser to our clients,” said Chittmittrapap.
