Petroleum, Natural Gas, Minerals and Other Natural Resources

Natural resources are scarce in Japan so international procurement of petroleum and natural gas, etc. is important for the stable supply of energy, as is the domestic development of renewable energy, etc.; we advise domestic and international clients on such matters, including:

(1) Procurement

We have extensive experience in petroleum and natural resource procurement projects by energy companies and providing advice and support on a wide range of related matters, from LNG procurement contracts (long-term and spot contracts) to more recent trends such as transportation contracts related to LNG procurement and the establishment of Japan's first sales contract scheme for use of LNG as a marine fuel.

(2) Nuclear energy

We advise electric power companies on uranium purchase contracts for nuclear power generation and EPC companies on their participation in overseas nuclear power generation projects.

(3) Overseas mining development

We have participated in a wide range of projects on behalf of a diverse range of parties, including government agencies, developers, and financial institutions on investments in overseas mining development projects for non-ferrous metals.

(4) Financing

We have advised sponsors, developers and financing parties on project financings related to petroleum, natural gas, and other natural resources, leveraging our experience and track record in project contracts as described above.

When advising foreign clients, our firm can field a team of expert Japanese lawyers and foreign lawyers who have relevant experience and bi-cultural sensitivity. Our team can do business and draft documents in Japanese, English, German, Mandarin, Hindi, Korean, and Marathi, and provides services around the clock through our global affiliated offices.