Playing by Different Rules: A Practical Workshop on Contracting with States and SOEs in Southeast Asia

Doing business with governments and state-owned enterprises (SOEs) in Southeast Asia presents a unique and complex set of challenges for in-house counsel.  Unlike commercial counterparties, states and SOEs operate within shifting political landscapes, where policy changes, sovereign immunity and enforcement uncertainty can fundamentally alter the risk profile of a contract - often when it is too late to act.

This interactive, small-group workshop brings together practitioners, political risk consultants and in-house counsel to share real-life experiences and practical insights with peers in an informal setting.  Drawing on their experience across ASEAN, facilitators will explore the questions that in-house lawyers must ask before signing, the clauses that matter and the moments when SOEs stop behaving commercially.  Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of which risks are acceptable, which are non-negotiable and how to push back effectively against unrealistic contract terms.  Whether you are navigating front-end contract negotiations or managing back-end disputes, this session will generate frank, actionable insights.