Following an extensive nomination process, Asia Business Law Journal unveils the A-List of Vietnam’s top 100 lawyers plus 12 legal icons. Byung Jin Park and Miran Lim report
A major surge in infrastructure development is transforming Vietnam, with significant ramifications for its legal sector. By early December 2025, reports indicated that up to 19 ministries, 25 localities, and 13 enterprises aimed to break ground or inaugurate 198 infrastructure projects across the nation on December 19. This momentous date was strategically positioned ahead of the 14th National Party Congress set for January 2026.
These ambitious initiatives come with a staggering combined investment of over VND983 trillion (approximately USD37.3 billion). These large-scale projects must navigate a complex legal landscape, encompassing aspects from planning to financing and construction. Vietnamese lawyers play a crucial role in ensuring these projects are not only executed safely and timely but also serve to protect public interests.
Vietnam’s infrastructure ambitions extend beyond its borders. In November 2025, Deputy Prime Minister Ho Duc Phoc met with his Lao counterpart, Saleumxay Kommasith, highlighting the need to accelerate significant projects such as the Vientiane-Hanoi Expressway and the Lao-Vietnam Railway. Such cross-border ventures present their own challenges, requiring expertise from Vietnamese lawyers familiar with varying legal jurisdictions.
The country’s drive for infrastructure comes alongside a robust economic growth trajectory. In the third quarter of 2025, Vietnam’s economy grew by 8.23%, the strongest quarterly performance since 2022. With a year-to-date growth of 7.85%, the nation is on track to meet its ambitious target of 8% growth for the year, buoyed by strong exports and domestic production amidst fluctuating US tariff policies.
As Vietnam solidifies its economic stance and enhances regional connectivity, the legal community’s role becomes ever more pivotal. Lawyers are essential to ensuring that this historic infrastructure push unfolds responsibly, strategically, and sustainably, facilitating growth for decades to come.
Recognizing the invaluable contributions of these legal professionals, Asia Business Law Journal has announced its A-List of the top 100 lawyers and 12 Legal Icons for 2025. This recognition stems from extensive research and nominations primarily sourced from in-house counsel in Vietnam and Vietnam-focused partners from international law firms. Feedback indicates a particular demand for lawyers who exemplify unwavering dedication and an in-depth understanding of both domestic and international laws.
Arbitration Lawyers
As arbitration gains traction in Vietnam, the Vietnam International Arbitration Centre (VIAC) reported handling a record 478 cases in 2024. Several arbitration lawyers have made their presence felt in this year’s A-List, notably Dinh Anh Tuyet of IDVN Lawyers. Valerio Salvatori, a counsel at Curtis Mallet-Prevost Colt & Mosle in Milan, has commended Tuyet for her critical role in navigating Vietnamese law during three investment arbitration cases they collaborated on.
“She is an excellent arbitration lawyer with extensive experience in high-stakes disputes, consistently achieving favorable outcomes for her clients,” states Salvatori, highlighting the importance of Tuyet’s contributions.
K Minh Dang, a senior partner and head of international arbitration at YKVN, is another standout in this arena. Duc Tuu Ngo, senior legal counsel at Archer Daniels Midland, praises his extensive experience in complex international arbitrations, calling him a source of inspiration and a role model for aspiring Vietnamese lawyers.
Communication Skills
The importance of strong communication skills has been notably underscored in this year’s A-List. Clients highlighted how these abilities are vital for navigating complex legal landscapes. Duc Tran Manh, chief legal and compliance officer at Home Credit Vietnam, has lauded Linh Bui, a partner at Allens, indicating her exceptional commitment to client needs, particularly her availability across time zones.
“Linh embodies the principle of being always available to her clients, ensuring that urgent matters are addressed without delay,” says Tran.
Khairuddin Yahya, global legal director at C-Hawk Group of Companies, also speaks highly of Nguyen Van Phuc, managing partner at HM&P Law Firm, for his strong communication skills and problem-solving abilities. “We trust him to manage complex issues under tight deadlines,” remarks Yahya.
Understanding the Unique Market
Vietnam’s unique legal landscape, characterized by significant state influence and collective land ownership, distinguishes it from other Asian jurisdictions. Consequently, lawyers with deep local knowledge are increasingly recognized on the A-List. Le Hong Phong, an equity partner at Bizconsult Law Firm, received accolades from John Zappia of DLA Piper for his sound judgment and commercial acumen, which have been instrumental in navigating legal matters effectively.
“Phong stands out for his ability to deliver practical, thoughtful legal advice tailored to the Vietnamese market,” says Zappia.
Additionally, Lai Foong Chan, of counsel at K&L Gates Straits Law, emphasizes the need for lawyers who not only comprehend legal implications but also appreciate the social and cultural contexts influencing Vietnam and Cambodia’s business environments. Chan identifies Richard Stapley-Oh of KPMG Law as her go-to lawyer for such insights, noting that his guidance alleviates a significant burden for her.
Yahya also highlights Nguyen Van Phuc’s exceptional ability to provide forward-looking legal advice that aligns with business objectives. “His capability to simplify complex legal ideas into actionable strategies is invaluable in this rapidly evolving market,” he concludes.