business areas

international trade

International trade law includes the appropriate rules and customs for handling trade between countries or between private companies across borders.  Over the past two decades, it has become one of the fastest growing areas of international law.

In 1995, in the most important development in the history of international trade law, the World Trade Organization (WTO), a formal international organization to regulate trade, was established.  At ENS (Edward Nathan Sonnenbergs), we provide strategic and technical advice on complying with WTO rules and how to utilise WTO concessions.  Furthermore, we assist clients in applying for WTO trade remedies such as anti-dumping duties, countervailing duties and safeguard measures and this service is supported by our established relationships with leading international trade lawyers in Europe, the United States and at the WTO in Geneva.  In addition, we advise clients on the pitfalls and legal considerations of particular relevance to import/export transactions, including providing assistance in respect of maritime law issues.  We also advise on, and represent clients in, international dispute resolution matters.

Our services include, amongst others:

• Applications for anti-dumping duties, safeguard measures and countervailing duties 
• Assistance on the interpretation of WTO and other free trade agreements 
• Advice on customs duty implications of importing goods 
• Advice on and drafting of international contracts of sale, including terms of international transport and payment, and arbitration clauses 
• International dispute resolution, typically international commercial arbitration 
• Assistance with maritime law matters

As the largest full-service law firm in Africa, we are able to offer cost-effective solutions to our clients by offering advice in all areas of the law thereby eliminating the need to consult elsewhere.  This ensures continuity and an all-round solution to all our clients needs.

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