China’s “tech muscles” need legal advice in Norway

Norwegian legal expertise will be a decisive factor in the coming wave of matchmaking between Norwegian and Chinese interests.

Norway and China are expected to form a free trade agreement during the coming year. The agreement will add pressure from Chinese companies showing an interest in cooperation, acquisition and establishment in Norway. Norwegian legal expertise is expected to be a decisive factor in the coming wave of matchmaking between Norwegian and Chinese interests.

“Only a few years ago, the label “Made in China” was used to describe something of low quality. Now we see that Chinese companies are fully on track and gradually moving past the most sophisticated tech companies from the West” says Partner and Head of Haavind’s tech team, Leif E. Thrane. He is currently in China with Partner in M&A and Oil & Gas, Bård Sandstad.

Both Haavind Partners are part of the Norwegian delegation which this week, led by His Majesty King Harald and Her Majesty Queen Sonja, meets with Chinese industry and commerce and representatives of the Chinese authorities. Haavind partners, both returning to China following several visits, are active parts of Haavind’s focus on the region. Although at an early stage, the interest from Chinese companies to cooperate with Norwegian law firms is certainly there.

“Norway has the technology and expertise Chinese companies find exciting. We therefore believe in increased cooperation in the future, and there will be a growing need for consultants who can facilitate this”, concludes Bård Sandstad.

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