Centil Law is well-regarded for advising on complex corporate transactions involving M&A, project financing, and agreement negotiations. The firm also works closely with the government on high profile PPPs, infrastructure and energy projects. The group is spearheaded by a 10-partner team of experts, including Umid Aripdjanov who supervises the firm’s energy practice, advising on issues related to up and downstream petroleum, renewable energy and mining. Sofia Shaykhrazieva advises commercial banks and international financial institutions on a range of banking issues. Managing highly contentious matters is Dilshad Khabibullaev, who is also involved in infrastructure and investment projects alongside Otabek Suleimanov. Natalya Kim, Zafar Malikov and Husniddin Ochildiyev are also key individuals at the forefront of the firm’s activity.
Leading firms in Uzbekistan
Centil Law
Praxisleiter:
Zafar Malikov; Umid Aripdjanov; Otabek Suleimanov; Sofia Shaykhrazieva; Dilshad Khabibullaev; Ravshan Rahmanov; Husniddin Ochildiyev; Islam Gulomov; Maksud Karaketov; Yakub Sharipov
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Natalya Kim; Valeriya Ok; Madina Hamidova
Referenzen
‘Easily can be marked as big local 4 in the legal area of Uzbekistan.’
‘We cooperate with Umid Aripdjanov, a partner specialising in complex transactions in the region, including renewable energy projects. Umid and his team represent a great value added to the services that we offer to our international clients.’
‘The Centil Law team copes with the client’s tasks perfectly and professionally, in the shortest possible time, which is especially important to note.’
Kernmandanten
IFC
ADB
TotalEnergies
Navoi MMC
Orano Group
Metito
Indorama Corporation
Air Products
Almalyk MMC
Tashkent Metallurgical Plant
Jiangsu Huaiye Technology Development Co.
BI Group
China Pipe Petroleum Co., Ltd.
Indorama Kokand Textile
Universal Energy
FSK- New Tashkent
Highlight-Mandate
- Advised Veolia on the first unsolicited proposal under the new PPP law for the operation, rehabilitation and maintenance of a heating distribution network with an investment plan of €1.5bn for 30 years in Tashkent.
- Acted as underwriters/book runners for JSC Uzbekneftegaz, JP Morgan, Citi and Gazprombank JSC for the oversubscribed offering of $700m in corporate Eurobonds.
- Worked as part of the IFC Advisory Service/World Bank Group in advising on the Scaling Solar Program in Uzbekistan for the benefit of the Government of Uzbekistan.
GRATA International
GRATA International covers the full spectrum of corporate matters, including handling contract negotiations, tax issues, and licensing agreements. In addition to its strong capabilities in transactional work, the team also handles renewable energy projects, acting as counsel for the structuring, financing, and security measures of the construction process. Bakhodir Jabborov is the managing partner, with considerable knowledge of natural resources and infrastructure development, advising global companies on regulatory issues arising from energy projects. Atabek Sharipov handles the banking and project finance practice, focusing on secured transactions and advising foreign investors and private banks on matters based on Islamic finance principles. Nodir Yuldashev is an international arbitrator who handles all contentious issues for the firm. Irina Obukhova and Dilorom Yuldasheva are also key leaders in the team, with specialisms in civil law.
Praxisleiter:
Bakhodir Jabborov; Nodir Yuldashev; Atabek Sharipov; Irina Obukhova; Dilorom Yuldasheva; Anora Turakhujaeva; Parvina Bashirova; Olmoskhon Khamidova; Parvina Karimova
Referenzen
‘We were satisfied with their team because they have a strong support system and personnel, and are well versed in specialised fields, especially metals exploration and development.’
‘Bakhodir Jabbrov: always quick and quality service, friendly personality, and knowledgeable of mining and natural resources. Dilorom Yuldasheva and Nodir Yuldashev: also quick and quality service.’
‘Grata is one of the most established firms in Uzbekistan. The practice is geared towards international clients investing in the country and is well placed to advise on inbound debt and equity investments.’
Kernmandanten
In2Metals
JOGMEC
Colliers International
Accor S.A.
Nordic Aviation Capital
China Energy International Group
UzOman Investment Company
Knauf International GmbH
The International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation
ICBC Standard Bank London
Kinstellar
Kinstellar is a well-regarded firm with a particularly active banking and finance practice, alongside capital markets, corporate and M&A. The firm is sought out by influential financial institutions to support complex transactional matters, notably including loan facilities and green financing initiatives. Sherzod Yunusov spearheads the group as an expert in banking and finance, energy and infrastructure projects. Joel Benjamin acts as the managing partner, with broad expertise in corporate and commercial deals, leading multiple deals involving project finance, trade and debt capital markets. Kamila Khamraeva was recently appointed as counsel due to her extensive knowledge of PPPs and renewables. Malika Murodova is a strong associate, with specialisms in corporate, contract and banking law as well as intellectual property law.
Praxisleiter:
Sherzod Yunusov
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Joel Benjamin; Kamilla Khamraeva; Malika Murodova; Jakhongir Azatov
Referenzen
‘Collaborative team which works efficiently to achieve client timelines and goals.’
‘We enjoy working with Kinstellar. The professionals have a very good knowledge of the matters, they are available and kind.’
‘Sherzod Yusunof is outstanding.’
Kernmandanten
J.P. Morgan Securities plc
Barclays
Arsenale S.p.A.
ACWA Power Company
Minsheng Financial Leasing Co. LTD
EBRD
Mercy Corps Global
China Southern Power Grid International (HK) CO., LTD
Highlight-Mandate
- Advised JP Morgan on Uzbek law matters in connection with a private placement of bonds by Ipoteka Bank.
- Advised China Southern Power Grid International on the acquisition of a non-controlling stake in ACWA Power’s two wind farm projects in Uzbekistan.
- Provided legal advice to Barclays, acting as a mandated lead arranger, on its first transaction in Uzbekistan in connection with a €50m senior secured tradable credit line extended to Microcreditbank.
Kosta Legal
Kosta Legal is reputed for the depth of its expertise in PPPs, handling an abundant range of projects for government bodies across the sectors of healthcare, education and energy. The group is also particularly strong on the litigation front, boasting a specialist team to assist foreign companies in their commercial disputes. Azizbek Akhmadjonov manages the team as well as heading the real estate and construction practice group. Nail Hassanov is highly knowledgeable in banking and finance, infrastructure and project work, advising on issues of secured finance and foreign investment. Vazgen Grigoryan heads up the dispute resolution team, with experience in representing clients in international arbitrations. Maxim Dogonkin is another strong partner who leads the corporate, competition and M&A practice. Jakhongir Olimjonov is a key associate, aiding the team on various complex matters. In January 2025, Shukhrat Yunusov joined the team from Dentons.
Praxisleiter:
Azizbek Akhmadjonov; Nail Hassanov; Vazgen Grigoryan; Maxim Dogonkin; Shukhrat Yunusov
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Jakhongir Olimjonov
Referenzen
‘An excellent team of professional lawyers with extensive experience in resolving complex economic disputes.’
‘Vazgen Grigoryan, in our opinion, is the most experienced and skilled lawyer in Uzbekistan.’
‘Our major contacts at Kosta Legal are Nail Hassanov and Maxim Dogonkin. These two are outstanding professionals who, due to their profound knowledge and expertise, make the life of our clients much easier while working in the Central Asian markets.’
Kernmandanten
Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company PJSC – Masdar
Asian Development Bank
Électricité de France
European Bank for Reconstruction and Development
International Finance Corporation
Hungarian Export-Import Bank
Philip Morris International
Sojitz Corp
Unitel LLC
Voltalia
Highlight-Mandate
- Advised the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development on developing a PPP project for the design, building, finance, operation and maintenance of up to 17 student dormitories with a capacity of up to 18,000 student beds in Tashkent.
- Advised Masdar on the development, construction, operation, and transfer of a 250MW solar plant, including a 63 MW/126 MWh battery storage system, a 220kV substation and relevant overhead transmission lines in the Bukhara region of Uzbekistan.
- Advised Uzbektelecom JSC on attracting a $200m syndicated unsecured loan from a pool of international banks.
Leges Advokat
Leges Advokat is a key contact in handling financing projects on both the lender and borrower side, assisting with facility agreements, security documents and debt restructurings. Additionally, the firm is strong in managing corporate matters of joint ventures, M&A and foreign investments alongside issues of employment. Nizomiddin Shakhabutdinov co-leads the firm alongside Azamat Fayzullaev, both holding vast corporate experience. Shakhabutdinov works within the banking and finance sector with a particular emphasis on project finance and contract law, whilst Fayzullaev is an expert in antitrust, commercial and employment law. Mels Akhmedov supports the team with expertise in construction and infrastructure work and handles transactional work related to PPPs. Najmiddin Jamoliddinov is also a key associate, specialising in international trade and investment agreements.
Praxisleiter:
Nizomiddin Shakhabutdinov; Azamat Fayzullaev
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Mels Akhmedov; Najmiddin Jamoliddinov
Kernmandanten
Group of lenders to the Uz GTL Project
Magnum Cash & Carry
China Development Bank
The Export-Import Bank of China
ACWA Power
SUEZ
InDrive
Danieli
Air Lease Corporation
JAC Motors
Highlight-Mandate
- Assisted in acquiring Carrefour Uzbekistan by Magnum Cash&Carry and created another subsidiary of Magnum Cash & Carry – Magnum Hamkor LLC, with the transaction amounting to $5m.
- Assisted in financing the purchase of 300 electro-buses and 800 petroleum buses, preparing and reviewing the security documents with external counsel regarding the sale and purchase of the buses.
- Assisted Bloomberg in evaluating its new products for compliance with Uzbek law requirements.
Azizov & Partners
Azizov & Partners operates a strong commercial practice, aiding major international companies with the structuring and financing of projects across a multitude of sectors, including e-commerce, insurance, and energy. The firm is also equipped to advise on corporate issues such as M&A, competition law and regulatory compliance. Ilkhom Azizov heads the team alongside Aziz Aripdjanov. Azizov is experienced in advising foreign investors on commercial and corporate issues across the sectors of mining and natural resources, telecoms and banking & finance. He is also well-versed in managing litigation proceedings. Aripdjanov handles the firm’s highly complex project financing, with specialist commercial law expertise to aid start-ups and new entrants to the Uzbek market.
Praxisleiter:
Ilkhom Azizov; Aziz Aripdjanov
Referenzen
‘Strong service-oriented culture, teamwork, client needs-based approach’
Kernmandanten
Uzum Market
Li Auto
China Export & Credit Insurance Corporation
Silk Road Fund
The Central Bottling Company
Highlight-Mandate
- Provided advisory services on the project financing of the 900MW Turakurgan Thermal Power Plant, including security agreements and deferred payment agreements.
LEGATE
LEGATE is a full service law firm handling both advisory and transactional work across the spectrum of corporate matters including PPPs, M&A and project financing. The firm is also strong on the contentious front, as well as supporting clients’ tax issues. Nigora Avazmukhamedova leads the team as the managing partner, specialising in corporate law, securities and international arbitration. Alongside her is Petr Avakyan, an expert in advising public investment funds and financial institutions on regulatory and compliance matters.
Praxisleiter:
Nigora Avazmukhamedova; Petr Avakyan
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Alisher Rahmatov; Pavel Jurayev
Referenzen
‘LEGATE is known for its expertise in corporate law, regulatory matters, and cross-border transactions. The team is highly responsive, often answering client questions far beyond regular work hours, demonstrating their dedication and commitment.’
‘I value their deep market knowledge, proactive strategies, and strong connections with local authorities. Legate stands out for its use of legal tech and commitment to diversity, making them a top choice for both local and international clients.’
‘Nigora Avazmukhamedova is a prominent figure in Uzbekistan’s legal landscape, serving as the managing partner at LEGATE. Nigora’s pioneering leadership as a woman in the industry sets an inspiring example for others.’
Kernmandanten
AGAPE ENERGY TECHNOLOGIES
SCE Quvvat
NEOTECH
CARAVAN GROUP
Samolet Plus
ELEKTRQISHLOQQURILISH
Lamanka Enterprises
Akhangarancement
UzAssets
State Assets Management Agency of Uzbekistan
Ameriabank
Humans
Uztransgaz
DAS Marketing
French School of Tashkent
UNESCO
Highlight-Mandate
- Advised Stone City on the signing of loan agreements with project lenders in the amount of over $1bn.
- Advised Agape Energy on decarbonisation in the energy sector and reducing the negative impact of carbon dioxide on the environment, and the production and disposal of biogas.
PraeLegal Uzbekistan
PraeLegal Uzbekistan is recognised for its proficiency in advising clients across a spectrum of practice areas, encompassing corporate law, real estate and construction law, dispute resolution and IP. In particular, the firm is well versed in drafting contracts for companies across the sectors of pharmaceuticals, construction and chemical products. A trio of experts leads the team with Davranbek Ahmatov serving as the managing partner whilst also boasting strong litigation skills. Sherzod Abdulkasimov advises governmental bodies and international businesses on complex project development matters, whilst Irina Kim has strengths in corporate and international affairs.
Praxisleiter:
Sherzod Abdulkasimov; Davranbek Ahmatov; Irina Kim
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Shakhnoza Kodirova; Sitora Bonu Sobirova
Highlight-Mandate
- Assisted Summit Business Centre of A+ class with services including negotiating, conducting of due diligence of the preliminary lease agreements and additional agreements to them, while ensuring their alignment with international legal practices of A+ contracts with Uzbek legislation.
- Provided legal services to Asia Trans Gas LLC in relation to corporate and regulatory matters.
- Assisting Cinematic LLC in starting from regulatory compliance, drafting contracts, holding negotiations, and overseeing the construction of the cinema itself, and the development of a software platform for advertising movies and booking tickets.
SETTLE law firm
SETTLE law firm operates with a high level of experience and knowledge in IP, spanning a variety of sectors, including pharmaceuticals, media, fintech, IT, and FMCG, and serving both major foreign and domestic companies. The pool of expertise on offer includes the protection of trade mark rights, IP enforcement and handling issues of counterfeiting and infringement. Jamshid Agzamkhadjayev and Sherzod Utkirkhujaev lead the team alongside one another, with a wealth of experience in the field of IP law.
Praxisleiter:
Jamshid Agzamkhadjayev; Sherzod Utkirkhujaev
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Said-Yakhyo Usmankhodjaev; Khamidullo Nazrullayev
Referenzen
‘Professional.’
Kernmandanten
Mondelēz International, Inc.
Procter & Gamble
Duck Global Licensing AG
Puma SE
Nokia Corporation
Pandora A/S
Panasonic Holdings Corporation
Unilever Global IP Limited
Hyundai Mobis Co., Ltd
OrientSwiss S.A.
Uklon
Creative Associates International Inc.
Wuhu Ruiqing Enterprise Management Co., Ltd
Xiaomi Inc.
Center for International Private Enterprise
GoliathTech Inc.
Highlight-Mandate
- Assisted Unilever Global IP in registering a wide range of trade marks in the customs register of IP objects and provided a wide range of IP services aimed at combatting counterfeit products in the Uzbek market.
- Provided comprehensive legal support to Uklon in investment, IT, transportation regulation, intellectual property rights and corporate matters to facilitate a smooth market entry.
- Advised Duck Global Licensing AG on matters of intellectual property protection and enforcement, in response to a significant challenge posed by the widespread distribution of counterfeit “Duck” products in the Uzbek market.
Winfields
Winfields supports clients from a range of industries including logistics, FMCG, trade and banking, with legal expertise spanning the corporate field. The firm is well equipped to handle restructuring matters as well as M&A and contractual work. Janibek Abdurazakov heads the team as the managing partner, with experience covering a broad range of commercial law, dispute resolution and bankruptcy issues. Erkin Turabov heads the banking and finance practice, specialising in international cross-border transactions including secured and unsecured syndicated and bilateral loan facilities.
Praxisleiter:
Janibek Abdurazakov
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Erkin Turabov
Referenzen
‘Winfields has a high degree of project cooperation.’
Kernmandanten
STA LOGISTIC EAST LLC
Coca‑Cola Ichimligi Uzbekistan LTD LLC
Landing Shenzhen Law Office
Hanjin Transportation Co. Ltd
Highlight-Mandate
- Provided legal support to a leading CIS logistics company, including advice on corporate, contractual, financial and real estate matters, as well as reviewing cross-border transactions.
- Acted for a local subsidiary of the Coca-Cola Company in a construction dispute in the local commercial court.
- Provided legal advice in cooperation with Chinese law firm Landing Shenzhen Law Office on corporate restructuring, business establishment and opening of representative offices of some well-known Chinese companies.
Abacus Law Firm
Abacus Law Firm provides a strong legal offering, with a tailored focus on the banking sector and other financial services. The team assists commercial banks, microfinance organisations and payment institutions with issues of tax, compliance and labour law as well as handling cross-border payments. Akmal Sharopov deals with corporate affairs within fintech and IT. Muhitdin Mustafaev specialises in sectors further afield, including consumer goods, pharmaceuticals and real estate, while Aziz Akhtamov heads the firm’s litigation practice.
Praxisleiter:
Akmal Sharopov; Muhitdin Mustafaev; Aziz Akhtamov
Highlight-Mandate
- Acted as lead counsel for a major German industrial machinery company, providing cross-border legal guidance on investment, tax, labour, foreign trade, and compliance regulations between Germany and Uzbekistan.
- Served as lead counsel for a Mongolian financial institution, advising on establishing a subsidiary in Uzbekistan, with legal guidance on microfinance regulations and negotiations with the Central Bank across Mongolia and Uzbekistan.
- Provided legal support for the acquisition of a real estate complex by a client which included land and six buildings for use in the petrochemical industry, totalling $3m.
Black Swan Consulting
Black Swan Consulting offers its clients broad legal support in employment, tax, and IP issues, with specialist expertise in IT law and the technology sector. The team, led by Amir Akhmedov, is also well-equipped to handle transactional work, including M&A and share transfers.
Praxisleiter:
Amir Akhmedov
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Sergey Simikin
Referenzen
‘The team at Black Swan Consulting demonstrated exceptional expertise and professionalism in conducting a comprehensive due diligence process on an individual. Their meticulous attention to detail and thorough understanding of local regulatory requirements set them apart from other firms.’
‘What truly distinguishes this team is their ability to go beyond standard procedures, providing creative and well-rounded solutions that reflect a deep knowledge of the legal landscape.’
‘Amir Akhmedov, the firm’s managing partner, led our meetings with utmost professionalism. His extensive experience and in-depth knowledge were evident from the very first interaction.’
Kernmandanten
Lerna
Digital Area
Optimo
Magnum Retail
IT Mercury
CloudPayments
Tinkoff’s Center of Development
KidoBrain
Forex Club International LLC
Ozone Fitness
Oxinus Holdings
Tavrida Electric
Gosselin Group
Epil-Time
Bank Soft Systems
Highlight-Mandate
- Advised and prepared all founding documents for Oxinus Holdings, developed an implementation agreement and managed payment system licensing and acquisition processes for a nationwide fintech-driven social policy reform.
- Prepared a substantiated reply disputing demands for Epil-Time, submitted it to the IP department, filed complaints, negotiated with authorities, annulled inspection results, and initiated an antitrust case to protect our client’s rights.
- Advised on and prepared for Tavrida Electric a preliminary share purchase agreement with suspensive conditions, identified key financial indicators, structured the transaction to minimise risks, and proposed an alternative model due to legal constraints.
CWB
Following the merger of CWB Group, PETOŠEVIĆ Group and Hahn & Hahn to form CWB, Uzbekistan has a united hub for handling all matters of IP, ranging from trade marks and patents to contentious matters of copyright infringement. Djakhangir Aripov spearheads the team, with extensive expertise and experience representing multinational consumer products companies in enforcement cases before both commercial and administrative courts in Uzbekistan and other jurisdictions.
Praxisleiter:
Djakhangir Aripov
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Umida Solijonova
PwC Consulting LLC Uzbekistan
PwC Consulting LLC Uzbekistan has a highly competent legal offering ranging from PPP investment support to M&A and joint venture transactions. The team possesses experience working across an array of sectors, namely banking, finance and energy. Vladimir Sokolov manages the team as a leading specialist in infrastructure projects, well-known in the market for expertise in the energy and natural resources sectors.
Praxisleiter:
Vladimir Sokolov
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Bakhora Akhmedova
Referenzen
‘The PwC team stands out for its superb professionalism and expertise. Its main strength is its reputation and track record.’
‘Exceptional quality and understanding of the business. The team consists of very strong professionals in the practice, delivers high quality services and does what is necessary to ensure that the proposed solutions indeed have the practical effectiveness. Working with this team is comfortable and productive.’
‘Vladimir Sokolov is an esteemed and highly qualified professional who ensures a full understanding of the client’s core needs in their requests, provides detailed and effective solutions and remains available for any further discussions.’
Kernmandanten
O’zbekiston temir yo’llari JSC
Azia Tashkent Textile LLC
Joint-Stock Innovation Commercial Bank Ipak Yuli
Talimarjan Power Plant 1 LLC
Texnopark LLC
Baker Hughes
GBS
Highlight-Mandate
- Advised O’zbekiston temir yo’llari JSC on a major transformation process in accordance with the presidential decree aimed at reforming the rail transport sector.
- Advised Azia Tashkent Textile LLC on vendor due diligence on the target as part of an $80m deal.
- Advised Texnopark LLC on a sell-side M&A asset deal worth $58m.
Tethys Law Firm
Tethys Law Firm offers advisory support on a range of corporate and commercial legal issues for its clients, working closely with IT clients and start-ups. Abdurazakov Jahongir-Salim manages the team with vast expertise in corporate matters across sectors such as IT, healthcare and energy.
Praxisleiter:
Abdurazakov Jahongir-Salim
Highlight-Mandate
- Advised Kupsilla on matters of corporate law.
- Advised Fashion Retail Group on matters of export-import, customs benefits for importers of international brands and the appliance of currency regulations applied to dividends.
- Advised Yunbai Techno on IT park entrance and e-commerce legislation in general, including financial regulations for payment companies and taxation regulations.
Vakhidov & Partners
Vakhidov & Partners is a legal boutique with a strong focus on the life sciences and pharmaceutical sector. The firm additionally aids clients in FMCG, retail, IT and telecoms. The practice is led by founder Zafar Vakhidov with specialities in corporate law, antimonopoly and anticorruption compliance and IP. Close support is given through Kamila Sharipova, whose expertise includes cross-border transactions, equity finance and M&A.
Praxisleiter:
Zafar Vakhidov
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Kamilla Sharipova
Referenzen
‘Their practice stands out due to their unwavering commitment to client-centric solutions, deep industry expertise, and a collaborative approach that fosters innovation. They understand the unique challenges faced by clients in the life sciences area, and particularly in pharmaceutical industry.’
‘We value in Zafar Vakhidov the qualities that distinguish him from others: a professional approach to work, honesty and integrity, communication skills and an extensive local and international network.’
‘Vakhidov & Partners is a young legal firm with strong expertise and high level professionals. Taking into account our previous not very positive experience of using legal services in these regions, we could say that Vakhidov & Partners should be on the top of legal firms there: they work very professionally despite the many grey areas in the local legislation which require knowledge of local practices.’
Virtus Leo Law Firm
Virtus Leo Law Firm is reputed for its litigation capabilities, representing clients in matters concerning property rights, contract law and tax issues. Additionally, the firm provides a comprehensive range of legal consultation across the consumer goods, trade and energy sectors. Alisher Zaynutdinov heads the team with his extensive experience in dispute resolution and the domestic court system. Odinabonu Abdukakhorova specialises in corporate and IP law and is a valuable asset to the team when handling negotiations.
Praxisleiter:
Alisher Zaynutdinov; Odinabonu Abdukakhorova
Referenzen
‘I was recommended Virtus Leo as a local firm in Uzbekistan, and have not been disappointed.’
‘Alisher Zaynutdinov is managing partner and the key man in litigation. An experienced advocate in full control of the issues in his jurisdiction.’
‘Exceptional complex support for foreign companies.’