Foreign Direct Investment Control and National Security

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and national security screenings are increasingly being applied to a wider range of global M&A transactions. The global trend for protectionism has led to more restrictive government measures. This requires a more strategic and co-ordinated approach towards FDI rules.

Our specialists have a wealth of experience in advising clients in FDI proceedings in established and emerging jurisdictions. We are at the forefront of developments, and regularly participate in consultations and interest groups concerning regulatory trends.

Our insights, strong relationships and reputation with government departments and foreign investment authorities enable us to find commercially acceptable solutions for our clients even when remedies are required.

Our global team can seamlessly advise on all FDI filings ensuring a coordinated and high-quality service. Our experienced team will develop a deep understanding of your business and the preferences of your legal function to deliver efficiencies and provide you with the confidence to pursue your M&A ambitions.

Recent FDI experience

We have advised on some of the largest and most complex FDI matters in recent years, and have helped clients overcome major regulatory hurdles in Europe, Asia-Pacific and the U.S. We have long-standing experience of handling Phase I and II instructions and regularly act as global counsel to co-ordinate multi-jurisdictional FDI and merger control filings. We seek innovative solutions to protect our clients' strategic interests and to best achieve our clients' commercial objectives.

Our experience includes advising:

Airbus, Safran and Tikehau Ace Capital in relation to the agreement with Eramet for the joint acquisition of Aubert & Duval
General Electric Company with regards to AerCap Holdings N.V.’s acquisition of GE Capital Aviation Services business
Leonardo S.p.A. on the acquisition of its stake in Germany-based listed defence and security specialist HENSOLDT AG from KKR
Hitachi on its acquisition of Thales’ Ground Transportation Systems business
Oracle on its acquisition of Cerner Corporation

How Clifford Chance will help you

At all stages of the FDI and national security cycle

Identification of where and what filings are required

Identifying where FDI filings are triggered for each transaction, and carrying out an initial multi-jurisdictional FDI filing analysis. Monitoring closely the fast-changing rules of FDI screening.