Dr. Nguyễn Trung Nam, representing EPLegal, attended a side event of HICAC 2026 titled “Lessons from Metro and Railway Projects: Practical Challenges and Opportunities in Contract and Risk Management”, held on 10 April 2026 in Ho Chi Minh City.
The event brought together a wide range of experts, policymakers, and project stakeholders in the infrastructure and construction sector, at a time when Vietnam is accelerating the development of large-scale metro and railway projects.
Key discussions focused on: – Opportunities for metro and railway development amid the new wave of infrastructure investment – Common challenges in contract management and risk allocation – International practices and practical lessons in Vietnam regarding schedule control, cost management, and dispute resolution
A consistent theme throughout the discussion was the need for a systematic, lifecycle approach to contract and risk management. Early risk identification, effective risk allocation mechanisms, and well-structured dispute resolution processes were highlighted as critical factors in minimizing disputes and ensuring project success.
Dr. Nguyen Trung Nam’s participation reflects EPLegal’s continued focus on legal issues in the infrastructure and construction sector, particularly as projects grow in scale, complexity, and governance demands.
For more information on EPLegal’s expertise in these areas, please feel free to get in touch with our team.
On the afternoon of April 8, Dr. Nguyen Trung Nam, Partner at EPLegal, held a working session with representatives of VIFC-DN and several potential investors to discuss the Center’s development orientation, operational framework, and collaboration opportunities.
During the meeting, the parties exchanged views on investor onboarding procedures and requirements, as well as investment incentive sectors at the Center. Discussions also covered regulatory and operational aspects, including sandbox mechanisms for pilot business activities, supervision and monitoring frameworks, member protection mechanisms, as well as dispute resolution and enforcement of arbitral awards.
The practical insights shared by VIFC-DN provided greater clarity on the legal framework and requirements for enterprises seeking to participate in its ecosystem.
Representing VIFC-DN, Mr. Dang Dinh Duc shared valuable information regarding the Center’s operational model, as well as its development orientation and upcoming plans.
The meeting provided EPLegal with an opportunity to stay updated on key developments, enabling the firm to continue supporting clients in effectively accessing and leveraging investment opportunities at VIFC-DN and across the Central Vietnam region.
For more information on EPLegal’s expertise in these areas, please feel free to get in touch with our team.
As Paris Arbitration Week 2026 comes to a close, representatives of EPLegal continued to engage in professional exchanges and international networking activities, further expanding their connections in the field of arbitration and dispute resolution.
As part of the side meetings, the delegation held discussions with representatives of the American Arbitration Association (AAA) and the International Centre for Dispute Resolution (ICDR), focusing on the development and operation of arbitral institutions, as well as practical recommendations on ensuring independence, transparency, and building market confidence in newly established arbitration centres.
Moments from the delegation’s visit in France.
At the same time, EPLegal’s representatives participated in various networking activities with the international legal community in Paris, providing opportunities to exchange professional insights and gain broader perspectives on cross-border dispute resolution practices.
Building on earlier engagements throughout the week, EPLegal’s active participation at Paris Arbitration Week reflects a comprehensive journey – from attending and engaging in professional discussions to strengthening international connections.
Through these activities, EPLegal continues to reaffirm its commitment to international integration, gradually expanding its professional network and enhancing its capacity to engage in arbitration and cross-border dispute resolution.
A cordial dinner with the French Ministry of Justice delegation.Engaging with international legal professionals.
As part of the official working visit to France, the delegation of the Ministry of Justice of Vietnam, led by Deputy Minister Nguyen Thanh Tinh, held a meeting with representatives of the French Ministry of Justice to exchange views on legal frameworks and dispute resolution mechanisms.
The discussions focused on practical experience in the development and operation of dispute resolution systems, particularly the relationship between arbitration and national courts, the supportive role of the judiciary in arbitration, and key factors in building a transparent, stable legal environment that fosters investor confidence.
The Vietnam Ministry of Justice delegation poses for a group photo at the French Ministry of Justice
Both sides also shared perspectives on the development of legal and arbitration professionals, emphasizing the importance of enhancing practical capabilities and aligning with international standards and practices in the context of deepening global integration.
The meeting also provided an opportunity for the Vietnamese delegation to present its orientation for the development of dispute resolution institutions, while learning from the French experience as one of the world’s long-standing and influential arbitration hubs.
Dr. Nguyen Trung Nam at the ceremonial hall of the French Ministry of Justice.
Dr. Nguyen Trung Nam, Founding Lawyer of EPLegal, participated in the delegation and actively contributed to the discussions, bridging practical insights with policy-level exchanges, while further strengthening professional connections with international counterparts.
Through this engagement, EPLegal continues to reinforce its strategic focus on dispute resolution and international arbitration, while progressively expanding its network and enhancing its capacity to engage in cross-border legal matters.
Overview of the bilateral meeting.A warm and engaging atmosphere during the meeting.
For more information on EPLegal’s expertise in these areas, please feel free to get in touch with our team.
As part of the Paris Arbitration Week 2026, the delegation of the Ministry of Justice of Vietnam held a working session with representatives of the International Court of Arbitration of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) – one of the world’s leading and most influential arbitral institutions.
During the meeting, the delegation exchanged views with the ICC on the orientation for the establishment and development of the Vietnam International Financial Centre Arbitration Centre (VIFCA), while also gaining insights into international best practices in operating an independent, efficient, and internationally aligned arbitral institution. Representatives of the ICC shared valuable recommendations on building investor confidence, the supportive role of national courts, as well as training and capacity-building programs in the field of arbitration.
The delegation also expressed its interest in strengthening cooperation with the ICC in professional areas such as training, expert networking, and support in identifying suitable international candidates for key positions of VIFCA in its early stages.
Notably, Dr. Nguyen Trung Nam, Founding Lawyer of EPLegal, participated in the delegation, contributing both practical and academic perspectives in the field of arbitration. His direct engagement in discussions with the ICC provided valuable opportunities to stay abreast of evolving dispute resolution practices, while also facilitating EPLegal’s efforts to expand professional exchanges and strengthen connections with leading arbitral institutions.
Through its participation in these high-level engagements, EPLegal continues to reaffirm its strategic focus on dispute resolution and international arbitration, while progressively enhancing its capacity to contribute to global legal dialogues.
Image: Deputy Minister of Justice of Vietnam Nguyen Thanh Tinh presented a commemorative gift to Ms. Claudia Salomon, President of the ICC.
For more information on EPLegal’s expertise in these areas, please feel free to get in touch with our team.
On 23 March 2026, the 10th ICC European Conference on International Arbitration took place in Paris, marking the opening of Paris Arbitration Week 2026 (PAW 2026) – one of the world’s leading forums in international commercial arbitration.
Notably, the conference welcomed a delegation from the Ministry of Justice, led by Deputy Minister Nguyen Thanh Tinh, with the participation of Dr. Nguyen Trung Nam, Founding Partner of EPLegal. Attending the event provided valuable opportunities to gain first-hand insights into the latest trends, thinking, and practices in international arbitration, while fostering exchanges and connections with leading experts and institutions, thereby contributing to enhancing Vietnam’s position in dispute resolution.
The event brought together approximately 300 international participants, with discussions focusing on key issues in contemporary arbitration practice, including how arbitral tribunals make decisions, the role of psychology and advocacy strategies, the impact of financial factors on dispute outcomes, and the design of effective procedural and case management strategies.
On the sidelines of the conference, the Ministry of Justice delegation held a working meeting with representatives of the ICC International Court of Arbitration. The discussion highlighted the widespread global use of ICC arbitration, including States and state-owned enterprises, reflecting strong trust in its integrity and neutrality. The ICC emphasized the importance of a reliable dispute resolution framework – combining arbitration and an effective court system – in strengthening investor confidence. Both sides also explored potential areas of cooperation, particularly in capacity building, institutional development, and enhancing the capabilities of Vietnam’s legal professionals in line with international standards.
Through the participation of Dr. Nguyen Trung Nam as part of the Ministry of Justice delegation, EPLegal continues to affirm its strategic focus on dispute resolution and international arbitration, while contributing to knowledge exchange and the adoption of international best practices, thereby supporting the ongoing development of Vietnam’s legal framework and arbitration practice.
For more information on EPLegal’s expertise in these areas, please feel free to get in touch with our team.
March 24 2026 | Department of International Cooperation | Vietnam Law Newspaper
Within the framework of an official visit to the French Republic, on 23 March 2026, Nguyen Thanh Tinh, Deputy Minister of Justice of Vietnam, together with an inter-agency delegation, attended the opening ceremony of Paris Arbitration Week 2026 (PAW 2026) and held a meeting with the President of the International Court of Arbitration at the headquarters of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC).
On the morning of 23 March 2026, Deputy Minister Nguyen Thanh Tinh led the Ministry of Justice delegation, comprising Mr. Nguyen Huu Huyen (Director General of the Department of International Cooperation), Mr. Nguyen Tan Cuong (Deputy Director General of the Department of Judicial Support), Ms. Hoang Thanh Hang (Officer of the Department of International Law and Investment Dispute Settlement), and Nguyen Trung Nam, Director of EPLegal and Founding Representative of the International Arbitration Centre under the proposed International Financial Centre of Vietnam, to attend the opening ceremony.
The significance of Paris Arbitration Week was evident from its opening session, which featured high-level speakers including Gérald Darmanin, Éléonore Caroit, and Louis Degos. Their opening remarks underscored the importance and global standing of this year’s forum.
Paris Arbitration Week serves not only as a major platform for international experts and arbitrators to discuss key issues in commercial and investment arbitration, but also as a forum promoting connectivity grounded in the rule of law, diversity, and innovation. The presence of the Vietnamese Ministry of Justice delegation reflects Vietnam’s strong commitment to international integration in the field of dispute resolution through arbitration.
Following the opening ceremony, Deputy Minister Nguyen Thanh Tinh and the delegation held a working session with Claudia Salomon, along with Ms. Donna Huang (Head of North Asia Case Management, ICC) and Mr. Tejus Chauhan (Head of South Asia Case Management, ICC).
During the meeting, the Deputy Minister shared Vietnam’s strategic vision, objectives, and legal framework for the development of an international financial centre. He emphasised that, for such a centre to operate effectively, it is essential to establish a transparent, credible dispute resolution mechanism aligned with international standards. He also expressed his expectation that the ICC leadership would share practical experience in the selection of the President and arbitrators of the International Court of Arbitration, thereby providing guidance for the establishment of an international arbitration centre within Vietnam’s future financial centre.
In response, Ms. Claudia Salomon commended Vietnam’s strategic direction in developing its international financial centre and agreed on the importance of a transparent and internationally aligned dispute resolution framework. She further provided two key recommendations: (i) the legal framework governing the arbitration centre should be consistent with national law; and (ii) the role of courts in supporting arbitration is critical. She also elaborated on the ICC’s procedures for appointing its President and arbitrators, highlighting the principles of transparency and fairness underpinning the process.
At the conclusion of the meeting, the Deputy Minister reaffirmed Vietnam’s respect for investors’ freedom to choose dispute resolution mechanisms and expressed high regard for the reputation of the ICC International Court of Arbitration. He also called for continued support from the ICC in the establishment and development of the international arbitration centre within Vietnam’s future international financial centre.
As part of Paris Arbitration Week 2026 (PAW 2026) – one of the leading global events in international arbitration, Dr. Tony Nguyen is present in Paris to participate in a series of activities taking place from 23 to 27 March 2026.
Held annually in Paris – a global hub for law and international arbitration – PAW brings together thousands of lawyers, arbitrators, practitioners, and academics from around the world, featuring hundreds of conferences, panel discussions, and networking events that reflect the latest developments in the field.
Dr. Tony Nguyen’s participation highlights the proactive engagement of Vietnamese legal professionals in the global arbitration community, while also providing an opportunity to exchange insights and stay updated on key topics shaping current practice – from the impact of AI in arbitration and investment disputes to issues related to climate change and global supply chains.
For EPLegal, attending PAW 2026 forms part of its broader strategy to strengthen international connections, expand its network with leading experts and institutions, and enhance its capabilities in cross-border dispute resolution.
Through participation in global forums such as PAW, EPLegal continues to affirm its commitment to the development of international arbitration, while progressively reinforcing its position as a Vietnamese law firm handling complex, cross-border disputes.
For more information on EPLegal’s expertise in these areas, please feel free to get in touch with our team.
On 19 March 2026, as part of the AMS 2026, Panel Session 2 titled “Jurisdiction in Chain of Disputes and Practices in Financial Disputes” was successfully held, bringing together leading experts in dispute resolution.
Representing EPLegal, Dr. Nguyen Trung Nam participated as a speaker, sharing practical insights drawn from his experience handling disputes across multiple jurisdictions.
At the panel, experts highlighted a growing trend in financial disputes toward chain of disputes, where interconnected and interdependent transactions give rise to complex dispute structures. In this context, determining the jurisdiction of arbitral tribunals presents significant challenges -requiring a balance between ensuring the legal robustness of arbitral awards and maintaining the efficiency of financial transaction flows.
Drawing on his experience in arbitration proceedings across Europe and Asia, Dr. Nguyen Trung Nam shared perspectives on how leading arbitral institutions such as ICC and SIAC approach chain of disputes. He also elaborated on the application of the Kompetenz-Kompetenz principle in arbitration proceedings in Vietnam.
Through its participation, EPLegal continues to affirm its strong expertise and practical experience in dispute resolution, particularly in international commercial arbitration. With a commitment to sustainable development, EPLegal remains proactive in keeping abreast of evolving legal trends while actively contributing to both academic and practical forums to enhance service quality and deliver meaningful value to clients.
EPLegal sincerely appreciates the organizers, speakers, and participants for fostering such an engaging and insightful platform, and looks forward to further opportunities for collaboration and strengthening professional relationships in the future.
For more information on EPLegal’s expertise in these areas, please feel free to get in touch with our team.
EPLegal is pleased to announce its continued recognition in the 2025 rankings of IFLR1000 for the Vietnam market, with the following results:
Tier 3 – Projects
Tier 4 – Banking and Finance
Tier 4 – Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A)
Notably, the firm’s Tier 3 ranking in the Projects category reflects EPLegal’s strong advisory capabilities in investment, energy, and infrastructure projects—areas that require deep expertise, extensive practical experience, and the ability to navigate complex legal structures. In this category, EPLegal is ranked alongside leading law firms, further reinforcing its growing position in the projects space in Vietnam.
The IFLR1000 rankings are based on independent research, representative transaction records, and client feedback within each jurisdiction. Being ranked across three key practice areas demonstrates EPLegal’s sustained development and solid expertise in finance, investment, and project-related matters in Vietnam.
EPLegal sincerely thanks its valued clients and partners for their continued trust and support, and acknowledges the dedication and efforts of its lawyers and professionals.
