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[China] – Getting Ready for the Revamped Merger Control Regime
DS Newsletter China
[China] – Enterprise Deregistration Guidelines
DS Newsletter China
[China] – What you need to know from the legal perspective to approach the NFT market
DS Newsletter China
China – New rules on voluntary disclosure of customs violations published
Les Brèves de DS Avocats
Shenzhen launches China’s first customs and tax collaboration on transfer pricing management of imported goods
Les Brèves de DS Avocats
GSP: Suspension of tariff preferences for certain goods imported into the EU from India and Indonesia as of 1 January 2023
Les Brèves de DS Avocats
United Kingdom: Simplification of UKCA marking on imported products until 2027
Les Brèves de DS Avocats
How’s the personal information protection certification in China ?
DS Asia Newsletter
China – All you need to know about connected car data
DS Newsletter Chine
China – The protection of business secrecy
Les Brèves de DS Avocats
China -1st Anniversary of the Hainan Free Trade Port – Towards a more concrete plan
DS Newsletter Chine
China – How to deal with the inter-provincial social contribution ban?
DS Newsletter Chine
China – New Registration Fee Law
Les Brèves de DS Avocats
China – Overview of legal developments on data protection and cybersecurity in 2021
DS Newsletter Chine
Singapore : New Vaccinated Traveller Framework and Update on Safe Management Measures
Les Brèves par DS Avocats
Ukrainian crisis : Direct and indirect effect of the Russian related sanctions on European companies
Les Brèves par DS Avocats
China – data : manage it or endanger it?
DS Newsletter Chine
How to set up a limited liability company online in Italy
Have you ever planned to set up a company in Italy ? Has your company ever intended to
expand its business in Italy, but it has always been put off by the thought of time and
paperwork required ?
Now, you can set up a limited liability company online by videoconference.
DS Avocats : M&A en el mundo 2021 y 2022
China – Stricter requirements under the New Production Safety Law
DS Newsletter Chine
China – Can the powers of the general meeting of shareholders be delegated to the board of directors ?
DS Newsletter Chine
Law of Raw Data – France – by Catherine Verneret
AIPPI Law Series – Wolters Kluwer
Big Win for DS Avocats Canada in Antidumping Dispute on Behalf of Canadian Producer in Mining Grinding Media
Health data : control your risks!
DS Avocats China Newsletter
Moving to Italy: The “flat tax” regime for high-net-worth individuals and the “Investor VISA”
Have you ever desired to move to Italy but were discouraged by the idea that the Italian tax system is not favorable or by the idea that you are ineligible for a VISA?
In this case, you must know that Italy has introduced since 2017 a simplified and extremely favorable “flax tax” regime and adopted a special VISA for high-net-worth individuals moving to Italy.
Marta Longoni highlights how this represents a great opportunity for foreign high-net–worth individuals who intend to move to Italy.
International Trade in Goods and Services in France: Overview
Thomson Reuters’ International Trade and Commercial Transactions Global Guide for 2021
Sale and Storage of Goods in France: Overview
Thomson Reuters’ International Trade and Commercial Transactions Global Guide for 2021
A step towards new market jurisdiction taxation rights
International Tax Review
Renewable Energy 2022-France
International Comparative Legal Guide
China – Medical Devices – Online Sales of Medical Devices in China
DS China Newsletter
Entry into force of Regulation (EU) 2021/821 reviewing EU rules related to the control of exports of dual-use items
Les Brèves byDS Avocats
A recent decision of the French Administrative Supreme Court considerably affects the concept of loss of chance in French law
L’Argus de l’Assurance
Construction & Engineering Law 2021 – France
ICLG.com
China – Medical Devices – Medical Device Registrant System in China
DS China Newsletter
Deadline Extension of Definitive Safeguard Measures on Imports of Steel Products from Third Countries
Les Brèves de DS Avocats
China – Medical Devices – Clinical Evaluation and Clinical Trials : Balance between Safety and Innovation before Marketing
DS China Newsletter
Singapore – potential impact of Covid-19 on tax residency
Les Brèves by DS Avocats
Web Crawlers’ Data War
DS Newsletter
Singapore – Immigration Update – Tightened Measures
Les Brèves by DS Avocats
China – IIT Subsidy for High-level Foreign Talents in Beijing
DS Newsletter
Singapore – Phase 2 Heightened Alert – Updates on border measures and requirements for safe management measures at workplace
Les Brèves by DS Avocats
Foreign subsidies granted by non-EU governments under scrutiny of the EU Commission
DS Flash Info
China – Withdrawal of tax exemption on allowances for foreign employees
DS Newsletter
China – Business Name Registration Reform
Les Brèves by DS Avocats
Indonesia – Impacts of the Omnibus Law on Foreign Investments
Les Brèves de DS Avocats
Indonesia – Impacts of the Omnibus Law on Labor Law
Les Brèves by DS Avocats
New obligation to disclose beneficial owners to the company’s register under the Italian Law
Les Brèves by DS Avocats
Environment & Climate Change Law 2021 – France
ICLG.com
China – Fourth revision of the Patent Law
DS Newsletter
Filing for Trademark Protection Internationally
China – Are WeChat Conversations Admitted as Evidence by the Courts?
Les Brèves by DS Avocats
Singapore – Discontinuation of LOC for DP holders
Les Brèves by DS Avocats
China – Keep away from employees with “bad faith”
DS Newsletter
Singapore – Personal Data Protection (Amendment) Act 2020
Les Brèves by DS Avocats
China – New Health Protocol for Imported Goods Marketed in China
Les Brèves by DS Avocats
India – Corporate Social Responsibility – amendment
Les Brèves by DS Avocats
EU & Germany newsletter by DS GRANER
In our newsletter we would like to inform you regularly about news and general information in the field of law and business in Europe and Germany in particular. We hope you find this useful and wish an enjoyable read!
Recent developments and measures related to the coronavirus pandemic in the EU and Germany
Further news related to trade and law : EU Commission proposes new competition law instruments / EU and PRC agree on investment treaty / EU and United Kingdom reach agreement on Brexit trade deal / The EU association action is coming! / EU Commission wants to regulate Internet corporate groups more closely / EU Commission examines new anti-dumping measures against PRC / Covid 19 pandemic may constitute change in business basis of lease agreements / ICC publishes new arbitration rules / Recent major insolvency proceedings
China – New Rules for Registering Cosmetics
DS Newsletter
Singapore – Immigration – Tightening of EP regulations for Intra-Corporate Transferees
Les Brèves by DS Avocats
E-commerce in China: a Chance You Should not Miss
DS Newsletter
Singapore – inward re-domiciliation regime
Les Brèves par DS Avocats
Brexit: Unprecedented trade agreement and restoration of customs formalities at the EU-UK border on 1 January 2021
Les Brèves by DS Avocats
Asia-Pacific Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership
On 15 November 2020, the Member States of the ASEAN and 5 regional partners being Australia, China, Japan, Korea and New Zealand, met virtually to witness the signing of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Agreement after 8 years of ASEAN-led grueling negotiations.
The world’s largest free trade arrangement, “the RCEP is an unprecedented mega regional trading arrangement covering a market of 2.2 billion people, or almost 30% of the world’s population, with a combined GDP of US$ 26.2 trillion or about 30% of global GDP, and accounts for nearly 28% of global trade”. The RCEP also represents the first ever free trade agreement between China, Japan and South Korea and is highly symbolic in a time of trade tensions and tariffs.
Indonesia – ratification of the Bilateral Investment Treaty between Indonesia and Singapore
On September 25, 2020, the Indonesian President ratified the Agreement of October 11, 2018 on the Promotion and Protection of Investments between the Republic of Indonesia and the Republic of Singapore (“ISBIT”) under Presidential Regulation No. 97 of 2020, which entered into force on September 29, 2020.
EU & Germany newsletter by DS GRANER
In our newsletter we would like to inform you regularly about news and general information in the field of law and business in Europe and Germany in particular. We hope you find this useful and wish an enjoyable read!
Recent developments and measures related to the coronavirus pandemic in the EU and Germany
Further news related to trade and law : Stricter foreign trade law for foreign investors for foreign investors / New European Dual-Use Regulation is coming! / European Commission wants to improve protection of intellectual property / New ICC Force Majeure and Hardship Clauses 2020 / Recent European Anti-Dumping Measures / New reorganization law to come in early 2021! / Recent major insolvency proceedings
Singapore – COVID-19 border control measures – travelling to Singapore
As of 2 December, the following border control measures related to COVID-19 apply when traveling to Singapore.
China – The Reform of Chinese Export Control Legislation
Les Brèves by DS Avocats
Tariff package granted by the EU Council on Wednesday 18 November in the framework of the EU/US trade war
As part of the EU’s $4 billion countermeasures against the US, the European Commission adopted on November 7, 2020 an Implementing Regulation 2020/1646 to impose an additional 25% duty on certain US products such as vanilla, cereals, dairy products, fruits and vegetables, etc.
Tensions between the European Union and the United States are not new. It all began with illegal aid granted by the European Union to Airbus, causing commercial damage to its American competitor Boeing.
Singapore – Recruitment – Fair employment practices
To promote fair employment practices and improve labour market transparency, employers submitting EP applications must first advertise on MyCareersFuture, and consider all candidates fairly.
Brexit: practical consequences for operators with regards the exit of the United Kingdom from the internal market and the EU Customs Union on 1st January 2021
Singapore – Workplace – Update on requirements for safe management measures
From 28 September 2020, the updated Requirements for Safe Management Measures (“SMM”) at the Workplace will take effect.
Renewable Energy 2021-France
A practical cross-border insight into renewable energy law -First Edition
Our lawyers, Véronique Fröding and Stéphane Gasne, authored the Q&A chapter on France’s renewable energy overview in the recently published “The International Comparative Legal Guide – Renewable Energy 2021”
Modernization of the Chinese Export Control Legal Regime
The Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress enacted on October 17th, 2020 the Export Control Law (“Final Version”) which will come into force on December 1st, 2020
A brief by the Customs and International Trade team of DS Avocats
Tangible and intangible goods & services: ECJ decision of 10/09/2020 in the BMW case
The European Court of Justice confirms the possibility of including in the customs value of a product the cost of an intangible good designed in the EU and made available free of charge to the third party seller by the purchaser.
A brief by the Customs and International Trade team of DS Avocats
Exporter status: Entry into force in France from October 1st, 2020
Delayed several times, this new definition will enter into force in France on October 1st, 2020.
A brief by the Customs and International Trade of DS Avocats
Singapore – Extension of jobs Support Scheme (JSS) up to March 2021
The JSS will be extended by up to seven months to cover wages paid up to March 2021.
A brief by the Singapore team of DS Avocats
Major changes to law on investment 2020 & law on enterprise 2020
On June 17, 2020, the National Assembly has passed the new Law on Investment and the new Law on Enterprise, whose major changes will take effect as from January 1, 2021.
Export Control – People’s Republic of China Precisions on the new regime of control of exportations of sensitive items and technologies
Six months after the publication of a first draft, the Chinese export control bill was submitted to the Standing Committee of the Chinese National Congress for a second examination on the 28th of June 2020. The revised version (the Second Version) subject to public consultation until August 16th, 2020.
New Covid-19 outbreak in the capital and impact on meat and seafood import
Due to a new Covid-19 outbreak in Beijing in early June originated from a wet market, where the genetic traces of the virus was found on a chopping board used to cut salmon (which is said to have come from Europe), some local customs implemented quarantine procedure for 100% imported salmon and frozen food, although no official notification was issued to impose this kind of measure.
BREXIT: getting ready for the end of the transition period New Communication of the European Commission
As a reminder, the United Kingdom left the European Union on January 31, 2020. The withdrawal agreement between the EU and the United Kingdom provided for a transitional period ensuring that EU law will continue to be apply in the United Kingdom from 1 February 2020 to 31 December 2020.
Singapore – Phase Two of Safe Re-Opening and gradual re-opening of travel
Moving into Phase Two. Singapore moved into Phase Two after 18 June 2359 hours.
Economic sanctions: the European Commission clarifies the applicability of restrictive measures to not listed entities, controlled by a designated person
In the context of restrictive measures adopted pursuant to Article 215 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, national competent authorities (“NCA”) of the Member States may request the Commission to provide its views on the application of specific provisions of the relevant legal acts or to provide guidance on their implementation.
China – New Medical Device Regulations
DS China Newsletter
Covid-19 and the issues on labour
The gravity of COVID-19 has not only caused considerable
needs of considering the health and economic impacts of its
outbreak, but the legal implications on employment.
The United States impose unprecedented and highly criticized sanctions on the International Criminal Court
On June 11, 2020, the President Trump signed an Executive Order blocking the property of certain persons associated with the International Criminal Court (‘ICC’).
Tariff classification : EU is getting a new tool
The US has CROSS, the EU now has CLASS. On 15 May 2020, the European Commission launched its new platform for finding information on the tariff classification of goods.
EU basic anti-dumping and anti-subsidy regulations Modification of the duration of the period of pre-disclosure
Reminder: the common rules for protection against dumped and subsidized imports from third countries are contained in Regulations (EU) 2016/10361 and (EU) 2016/10372 of the European Parliament and the Council (hereinafter “basic Regulations”).
Extraterritoriality of us sanctions European blocking statute transposition in Belgium
The European Blocking Regulation (EC) 2271/96 of 22 November 1996 protecting against the effects of the extraterritorial application of legislation adopted by a third country (“Blocking Statute“), recently amended, prohibits European operators, without authorization, to comply with US sanctions against Iran and Cuba, as listed in its Annex.
India – Foreign Direct Investments
On 27 April 2020, the Government of India notified Foreign Exchange Management (Non-Debt Instruments) (Second Amendment) Rules, 2020 (Amendment) amending the Foreign Exchange Management (Non-debt Instruments) Rules, 2019 (“FEMA NDI Rules”) w.e.f 27 April 2020:
India – Extension of lockdown and additional tranches of ABA Package : reform of FDI in defence and enhancement of ease of doing business
On 17 May, the Ministry of Home Affairs announced that lockdown measures to contain the spread of COVID-19 will continue to be implemented in all parts of India for a further period up to 31 May 2020 and released guidelines on the measures to be taken.
India – Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan stimulus package
On 12 May, PM Modi announced a 20 trillion Rupees support package for India’s economy, further detailed by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on 13 May (“ABA Package”).
COVID-19 VAT package on e-commerce Postponed until July 1, 2021
Reminder: on December 5, 2017, the Council adopted the VAT package on electronic commerce which included a directive and two regulations. Furthermore, on November 21, 2019, the Council adopted implementing measures for the VAT package by Council Directive (EU) 2019/1995 and Council Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/2026.
Singapore – Requirements for sale Management Measures at the workplace after circuit Breaker period
On 9th May, Singapore announced that restrictions will be gradually relaxed and economic activities will selectively resume. To prevent the re-emergence of community cases, the tripartite partners – the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), …
Brexit negotiations: a very disappointing second round The hypothesis of a hard Brexit becomes clearer
On April 24, Michel Barnier presented the state of negotiations and recalled the deadlines to come …
Medical & sanitory products new China export requirements
The Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM), the Customs Administration and the Market Regulation Administration (MRA) have jointly promulgated Circular [2020] No.12, applicable from April 26, 2020.
Singapore – Extension of deadline for holding annual general meeting and filing annual returns
In light of the COVID-19 situation, some companies may have difficulties holding their Annual General Meetings (AGMs) and filing their Annual Returns (ARs).
Singapore – Extension of the circuit breaker till 1 June 2020
The Prime Minister announced on 21 April 2020 that the circuit breaker measures will be extended until 1st June 2020 (instead of 4th May 2020).
India – Review of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) policy for curbing opportunistic takeovers/acquisitions of Indian companies due to the current COVID-19 pandemic
By Press Note No. 3(2020 Series) dated 18 April 2020, the Government of India has reviewed the extant FDI policy and amended para 3.1.1 of extant FDI policy as contained in Consolidated FDI Policy,
Customs and Trade – China strengthens severely its regulation on export control of medical equipment
Faced with an increasing number of complaints concerning the quality of sanitary products imported from China, the Chinese government has drastically strengthened pre-export controls.
Intellectual Property update in Canada
The Canadian Intellectual Property Office (“CIPO”), has decided to extend the deadlines for monitoring trademark and design registration procedures due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
India – COVID-19 – Extension of lock down and focus on employment law
On 14th April 2020, the Government of India extended the lock-down till 3rd May 2020. All restrictions that have been imposed in various sectors and on various activities (as spelt out in the Consolidated Guidelines of MHA) remain in force.
Singapore – UPDATE – Solidarity Budget and COVID-19 (Temporary Measures) Act and Regulations
On 6th April 2020, the Government announced a supplementary Budget 2020 known as the Solidarity Budget complementing the relief measures introduced under Budget 2020 on 18th February 2020 and the subsequent supplementary Resilience Budget on 26th March 2020, …
Distance selling of wines & spirits: a simplification measure highly anticipated by professionals in the sector
In application of article 302M quater of the General Tax Code, introduced by the Finance law for 2020, a decree has just been adopted (No 2020-338 of March 26, 2020: article 111 septdecies, Annex III of the General Tax Code) aimed at simplifying the tax treatment of wine & alcohol flows.
Greece – Additional measures against Covid-19
By virtue of the latest Legislative Act issued on 30.03.2020, a set of new measures is introduced to address the severe consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic
Singapore – COVID-19 (Temporary Measures) Bill – temporary relief from contractual obligations
The Ministry of Law of Singapore (“MinLaw”) has announced its intention to introduce the COVID-19 (Temporary Measures) Bill (“Bill”) in Parliament next week.
Health Emergency – Measures of the Argentine Republic
On March 11th, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the COVID-19 as a pandemic. As a consequence, the Argentine Republic implemented the following measures in order to prevent the spread of the virus.
India – COVID-19 – new relief measures
The Government of India declared the COVID-19 a ‘notified disaster’ under the Disaster Management Act, 2005, which enables the country to provide assistance and spend more funds to fight the pandemic.
Measures taken by Canada
As part of the current crisis related to the COVID-19, many employers have in recent weeks had to review their working methods.
France – Main legal and business measures adopted
Dealing with the public health emergency of COVID-19, from mid – March onwards the French government has progressively adopted measures to face the coronavirus crisis in order to protect its citizens’ health as well as French companies’ business.
Singapore – UPDATE – New Resilience Budget
On 26th March 2020, the Government announced a Supplementary Budget 2020 known as the Resilience Budget which further and addresses the rapidly evolving COVID-19 situation and the impact on Singapore’s economy and society.
European Union – Measures taken by the European Commission and regarding State Aid
Faster than during the 2008-2009 crisis, and almost as quickly as the spreading of the Covid-19 virus … that’s how the EU’s response to the current pandemic crisis can be characterized.
Overview of the various measures taken around the world to face the Covid-19 pandemic
Dear Friends, The world is facing some difficult times due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The rapid proliferation of cases across an increasing number of countries is a cause of global concern.
Life Sciences – summary of health measures taken by the Government
For several weeks now, France has been actively fighting against the coronavirus. In addition to health measures, the Government has adopted various texts as a matter of urgency in order to put an end to speculation in strategic health products and limit the movement of French people.
Greece – New 2MDS€ financial package to cope with the economic impact of Covid-19 pandemic
Strengthening the health system, by allocating a budget of at least €200M, in addition to the current budget of the Ministry of Health. The Ministry of Health will be given all the additional funds it needs to fight the spread of the coronavirus.
Droit Social – Note d’information sur le Coronavirus
Suite à la loi n°2020-290 du 23 mars 2020 d’urgence pour faire face à l’épidémie de Covid-19, le Gouvernement a pris ce jour de nombreuses ordonnances édictant des mesures dans des domaines variés.
Public procurement – Adaptation of the rules governing the award, procedure or performance of public contracts
The Ordinance on various measures for adapting the rules for the award, procedure or execution of contracts subject to the code of public procurement and public contracts that do not fall under it during the health crisis caused by the covid-19 epidemic, issued pursuant to Article 11 of Law No. 2020-290 of 23 March 2020 on emergency measures to deal with the covid-19 epidemic, was published in the OJ of 26 March (Order No. 2020-319).
Its content encourages buyers to agree to a certain number of flexibility measures, with the aim of protecting economic operators and allowing contracts to get back on track at the end of the health crisis.
Construction – Consequences to date of Covid-19 related measures on construction sites
In this current context of unprecedented health crisis, in view of the quarantine measures ordered by the Government, the professional organizations of the construction industry and the Executive face
major difficulties in reaching a consensus as to whether or not to continue work on construction sites, …
China – Measures taken by the Chinese central government
To cope with the crisis originated by the Covid-19 pandemic, the central government has taken strict control measures, including but not limited to traffic control, spring festival extension, and work and school resumption delay.
Tax – Mesures taken in France
Companies can request to postpone, without penalty and condition, the payment of their next direct tax installments (advance payment of corporate income tax, payroll tax, Corporate Property Tax called “CFE”, Contribution on the added value of companies called “CVAE”) using a special form available on the French tax authorities website.
Covid 19 crisis – main legal and business measures adopted in peru
On March 15 and 18, 2020, the following regulations aimed at preventing the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Peruvian territory were published, …
Italie – Law – Decree “Cura Italia” (D.L. n. 18 of 17 March 2020)
The new law decree “Cura Italia” of 17 March 2020, published on 18 March 2020 in the official bulletin (Gazzetta Ufficiale), provides for various measures to support employees and companies affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Canada’s response to address the economic and social impact of the Covid-19 pandemic
Canada has introduced, over the past fourteen days, drastic measures to stem the propagation of the Covid-19 virus among its citizens.
COVID 19 CRISIS – Measures taken by Belgian National Security Council
As announced on March 10, the evolution of the spread of the coronavirus is assessed every day, as the situation is constantly changing. In light of the most recent developments, the National Security Council met on Thursday 12 March in the presence of and in consultation with the Ministers President.
Measures taken in South-East Asia: India, Indonesia, Singapore, Vietnam
Intellectual Property – Impact of Covid-19: extension of the deadline at the INPI and EUIPO
The INPI – Institut National de la Propriété Industrielle, and the EUIPO – European Union Intellectual Property Office, have decided to extend the deadlines for monitoring trademark and design registration procedures due to Coronavirus pandemic.
Spain – Main business measures introduced in Spain to deal with the economic and social impact of the health emergency
In recent weeks, a series of extraordinary measures have been decreed in order to mitigate the economic effects of the health emergency generated by Covid-19, especially after the World Health Organization (WHO) officially declared a pandemic on 11 March 2020.
Impact of the pandemic Covid-19 on the German Economy
For Germany, which had an extremely solid economy until now, the coronavirus is a serious challenge for the whole society. Not only citizens but also companies are concerned.
Covid 19 crisis – main legal and business measures adopted in Chile
On 18 March 2020, the President of the Republic of Chile, Mr. Sebastián Piñera, declared a state of constitutional exception, the “State of Catastrophe”, …
Customs and Trade – Measures taken & announced by the French Customs Administration (DGDDI) & the European Commission
The DGDDI explains that at present the emergency measures taken by the government only concern direct taxes. Duties and taxes collected by the customs administration are therefore not included.
Droit Social – Mise à jour du vendredi 20 mars 2020.
Alors que le Gouvernement indiquait initialement que le coronavirus constituait une circonstance de caractère exceptionnel permettant aux entreprises de bénéficier du dispositif d’activité partielle, il semble avoir donné des instructions nettement plus strictes aux DIRECCTE qui sont chargées d’instruire les demandes d’activité partielle.
Singapore – UPDATE – Advisory for employers and employees travelling to and from affected areas
Measures introduced as of 18th March 2020. From 31 January 2020, MOM will reject all new work pass applications for foreign workers from mainland China until further notice. Renewal applications for existing work pass holders will not be affected.
India– COVID-19 – complete travel ban
COMPLETE TRAVEL BAN. No scheduled international commercial passenger aircraft shall take off from any foreign airport for any airport in India, after 00:01 hrs GMT of March 22, 2020 (*i.e. 05:31 hrs Indian Standard Time (IST) of March 22, 2020). These instructions shall remain in force till 0001 hrs GMT of March 29, 2020.
What measures should be implemented to deal with the decline in the Company’s business?
Following the various announcements of the French government, and in order to protect people from the effects of the coronavirus pandemic, you will find hereafter the main measures put in place to date in order to best organize your business.
Singapore – Employment pass – Increase of minimum salary
From 1 May 2020, the minimum qualifying salary to apply for an employment pass in Singapore will be raised from $3,600 to $3,900 for new applications.
Singapore – Employment – COVID – 19 and travel restrictions
From 4 March 2020, 2359 hours, all new visitors with recent travel history to Korea, northern Italy* and Iran will not be allowed entry or transit through Singapore.
Singapore – advisory by the Ministry of Trade & Industry (MTI) on the 2019 Novel Coronavirus
With effect from 1 February 2020, all new visitors with recent travel history to mainland China (within the last 14 days) will not be allowed entry into Singapore, or to transit through Singapore. This applies to individuals regardless of their nationality.
Dual use items export control new Chinese regime
China’s current legal framework for export control is recent (dating from the 1990s) and therefore incomplete. It consists of various laws (such as the Customs Law, the Foreign Trade Law and the Chinese Criminal Law) and administrative rules and regulations, which were last amended more than ten years ago.
India: Union Budget 2020-2021: highlights
The Finance Minister, Mrs. Nirmala Sitharaman, presented the budget for the year 2020-2021 to the Parliament on 1 February 2020 in a context of economic slowdown and social unrest.
India – Significant Beneficial Owners – amended rules
On 8 February 2019, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs released the Companies (Significant Beneficial Owners) Amendment Rules, 2019 (“New SBO Rules”), amending the Companies (Significant Beneficial Owners) Rules, 2018 (“SBO Rules”), introducing in India a significant beneficial owner (“SBO”) disclosure regime.
Coronavirus outbreak: how to deal with its potential impacts on business contracts in Asia? A comparative analysis in four Asian countries
The recent outbreak of 2019-nCoV (coronavirus), declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) by the World Health Organization on 30 January 2020, has had, and is expected to have for months, significant impact on global operations.
Brexit on 31 January 2020 assured: the European Parliament and the Council adopted the withdrawal agreement
As a reminder: Brexit should have taken place on 29 March 2019, 2 years after the United Kingdom’s invocation of Article 50. The Heads of State and Government have twice delayed the United Kingdom’s exit from the Union.
Brexit: new agreement of 17 October and new extension until 31 January 2020
As a reminder: Brexit should have taken place on 29 March 2019, 2 years after the United Kingdom’s invocation of Article 50. The Heads of State and Government have twice delayed the United Kingdom’s exit from the Union. On 21 March 2019, 8 days before the initial date, they granted a delay until 12 April if Theresa May failed to ratify the agreement approved on 25 November 2018. On 10 April, in the absence of ratification, they agreed to extend this deadline until 31 October.
Consequences on inward processing of the application of EU trade defense measures to certain products originating in the United States
As a reminder, the inward processing procedure (IP) allows third-country goods to be imported into the Union, processed or repaired before being re-exported or released for consumption.
Threats of additional duties on products originating from France imported in the United States
On December 3, 2019, the US Government announced its intention to impose additional duties on a limited number of products originating from France imported into the US, up to 100% of their value.
Entry into force of the EU-Singapore trade agreement on November 21st, 2019
Following our client alert of 19 February, we confirm that the EU-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (FTA) will enter into force on 21 November 2019.
Indonesia: liberalization of franchise regulations
Good news for the franchise sector in Indonesia which revoked most of the previous regulations imposing requirements for the registration and operation of franchises.
Brexit: new agreement of 17 October and new extension until 31 January 2020
As a reminder: Brexit should have taken place on 29 March 2019, 2 years after the United Kingdom’s has invoked the applicability of Article 50. The Heads of State and Government have twice delayed the United Kingdom’s exit from the Union. On 21 March 2019, 8 days before the initial date, they granted a delay until 12 April if Theresa May failed to ratify the agreement approved on 25 November 2018. On 10 April, in the absence of ratification, they agreed to extend this deadline until 31 October.
EU Regulation 2019/1020 of 20 June 2019: Establishment of a European network for market surveillance and conformity of non-food products
The free movement of goods within the internal market is a founding and essential element of the European Union. The protection of consumers, including their safety, as well as the protection of the environment as regards goods consumed within the Union are high priorities of the European Parliament.
EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement : Retrospective benefit of preferential tariff treatment is authorised in the EU
The EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement is effective since February 1, 2019. It provides for immediate customs duties removal for more than 90% of EU and Japanese originating products.
UCC – the customs representation of a non-established company can only be indirect
French Customs Authorities disclosed precise information early September 2019 regarding the representation of non-established operators for customs clearance purposes.
Corporate Venture and High Tech Investment in France
Acquiring and making partnership with French Innovative Companies
Presentation to the Business France-Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur seminar, in English and Japanese.
India – Companies (Amendment) Act, 2019
On 31 July 2019, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs introduced the Companies (Amendment) Act, 2019 (“Amendment”), replacing the Companies (Amendment) Ordinance, 2018 (“Ordinance” previously discussed hereand crystallising most of its provisions (as further amended in 2018 and 2019).
Arbitration and Conciliation (Amendment) Act, 2019
India is amending its arbitration law again (the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996, the “Act”). A dramatic reform of the Indian arbitration landscape started in 2012 with the first of a series of decisions of the Supreme Court
of India aiming at reducing the interference of the Indian courts in the international arbitration process.
Publication of incoterms® 2020
The newest edition of the International Commercial Terms (Incoterms), “INCOTERMS® 2020” is expected to be released by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) on the 13 th of September 2019.
India – External Commercial Borrowings
On 30 July 2019, the Reserve Bank of India issued A.P. (DIR Series) Circular No. 04 relaxing the end-use restrictions relating to external commercial borrowings (ECB) for Working Capital requirements, General Corporate purposes and Repayment of rupee loans.
New French Pacte Law: The New ‘Digital Assets Services Providers’ (‘DASP’) Status
Legalico.io
The French Parliament has adopted the “GAFA tax”, challenged by the United States
The European Commission had proposed the adoption of a directive on the common system of the Digital Services Tax (DST) applicable to the revenues derived from the provision of certain digital services.
The French Parliament has adopted the “GAFA tax”, challenged by the United States
The European Commission had proposed the adoption of a directive on the common system of the Digital Services Tax (DST) applicable to the revenues derived from the provision of certain digital services.
AfCFTA Official Launch of the African Continental Free Trade Area a new market of 1.2 billion consumers
After the entry into force of the agreement establishing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) on May 30th, 2019, Nigeria, Africa’s leading economy, signed said agreement on this July 7th.
August 1st : entry into force of the EU-Vietnam trade agreement
As a reminder: the negotiations with Vietnam, a fast-growing and competitive economy whose bilateral trade with the EU has increased fivefold over the past ten years, lasted from 2012 to December 2015.
New sanctions with respect to iran
In yet another step within the sanctions’ approach adopted by the Trump administration to bring Iran to renegotiate the JCPOA, President Trump signed on 24 June 2019 an executive order blocking and prohibiting the transfers, payments, export or withdrawal or otherwise any dealing
Legal Professionals’ Key Involvement in the Escrow System for Funds Raised During an Initial Coin Offering (ICO)
Legalico.io
WCA advisory opinion on valuation of imported goods purchased in flash sales
During its 48th Session held from 13 – 17 May 2019, the WCO Technical Committee on Customs Valuation (TCCV) has adopted Advisory Opinion 23.1 with respect to the valuation of goods purchased inaflash sale.
The Visa Delivered by the French Financial Regulator (AMF) to Issuers of Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs)
Legalico.io
The United Kingdom Parliament prepares for Brexit and adopts post-Brexit Blocking statute in order to replace the existing EU Blocking Statute
Originally scheduled for March 29, 2019, the Brexit was first postponed to April 12 and October 31. This situation implies the participation of the United Kingdom, still a member of the European Union, in the European elections which will take place between 23 and 26 May.
Customs & Trade
Following a long reflection on the rights and obligations of companies in their relations with customs authorities, engaged at the initiative of ICC France, including various professional organizations, ICC has just adopted a new customs Charter of Facilitation.
Real Estate Asset Tokenisation – A French Perspective
Legalico.io
The New French Legal Regulations For All Crypto-Active Players
Legalico.io
The European Parliament has approved the EU-Singapore Free Trade Agreement
As a reminder, the EU-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is the first bilateral trade agreement between the EU and an ASEAN country. In 2017, the initial plans to conclude the EU-Singapore FTA were put on hold after an opinion of the Court of Justice of the European Union of 16 May 2017.
Singapore – changes to the Employment Act from 1 April 2019
In accordance with the Employment (Amendment) Bill passed on 19 November 2018, changes to the Employment Act (“EA”) and Employment Claims Act (“ECA”) announced in our previous Brève are to take effect from 1 April 2019.
Singapore – jurisdiction clause – enforceability of Singapore civil and commercial judgements and international arbitral awards in ASEAN
The growth in economic partnerships (such as ASEAN) and globalization of commercial relationships are leading to growth in cross border trade, which is in turn inevitably accompanied by an increase in cross-border commercial disputes.
JCPOA France, Germany and the United Kingdom launched Special Payment Vehicle INSTEX to support trade opportunities with Iran
Reminder: the United States announced on May 8, 2018 their withdrawal from the « Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action » (« JCPOA ») regarding Iran and, consequently, began a process to re-impose certain sanctions on Iran that have extraterritorial effect.
Exemption of VAT identification in France for foreign companies
French Customs Authorities disclosed precise information early September 2019 on the VAT identification of persons established outside of France and carrying out taxable transactions in France or having to fulfill reporting obligations. Both import and export transactions are concerned.
Free zones: a fertile ground for foreign direct investments?
The most recent World Customs Organization, MENA regional workshop on Free Zones/Special Customs Zones, in Tangier, Morocco, from 28 to 30 January 2019 focused on the administration’s experience running such zones from customs processes and economic benefit’s standpoint.
Conference organized by DS Avocats and the Japanese Chamber of Commerce (in cooperation with JETRO) on the benefits for Japanese companies to draw from the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between the European Union and Japan, an historic agreement which came into force on 1 February 2019
On 20 December 2018, the Council of the European Union approved the EPA concluded between the EU and Japan and signed on 17 July 2018.
India – External Commercial Borrowings (ECB) Policy – new ECB framework
The ECB regime provides a framework for Indian corporates to avail foreign currency loans from an overseas lender. Although he ECB regime has undergone significant changes in the past years, it is still perceived as stringent, with many restrictions.
The IT Charter – an important tool for the security of business IT systems
There are many articles describing cybercrime and the cost it represents for businesses (risk of the loss of data, harm to their knowledge base, risk in terms of image and reputation, and perhaps even a risk for the continuation of business and survival of the firm).
Customs & Trade
SAFEGUARDS MEASURES ON THE RISE: EUROPEAN AND CANADIAN PERSPECTIVES It has been just over one year since the first announcement
of the steel and aluminum ad valorem tariffs imposed by the United States (US) on March 31, 2018.
India – PAN made mandatory for non resident directors
Vide Notification dated 19 November 2018, the Central Board of Direct Taxes has notified the changes in Income Tax Rules, 1962 with effect from 5 December 2018.
China Follow up of the reform of individual income tax
As a reminder, on 31 August 2018, the Chinese National Congress promulgated the Amendment to the PRC IIT Law (“IIT Amendment”) (cf. our Newsletter of 4 September 2018: China – Individual Income Tax Reform).
WTO – Extension of the 1998 moratorium on electronic commerce
On 10 December 2019, the WTO General Council decided to extend the moratorium on customs duties on electronic transmissions for the next 6 months.
American victory in the Airbus case: another episode in the US-EU trade war
On October 2nd 2019, World Trade Organization (WTO) issued its arbitration decision in the Airbus case (DS316), regarding illegal European subsidies granted to Airbus, which paved the way to US countermeasures.
