Can you help compare international structure options?
The assessment can compare proposed structures against the business purpose, ownership, funding, customers and markets involved. Tax, regulatory, corporate and other specialist input may be required before a choice is made. The objective is to identify an arrangement that serves the commercial plan with understood responsibilities, rather than selecting a jurisdiction because it is commonly promoted.
Can an existing African business retain its operations while expanding abroad?
Yes, the international proposal may sit alongside continuing African operations. The legal work should then examine how ownership, contracts, intellectual property, funding and management connect across the group. The appropriate arrangement depends on the activity and markets involved, with relevant advisers coordinated to assess the consequences of the proposed structure.
What if international customers require a foreign contracting entity?
That requirement should be assessed alongside the business model and the responsibilities the entity will assume. The review can consider customer agreements, payment, delivery, intellectual property, authority and the relationship with the African operation. A new contracting entity may also create ongoing corporate, tax or regulatory questions that require specialist advice before implementation.
Can you support an outbound acquisition or investment?
The mandate can connect the African investor's structure with the due diligence, agreements, approvals and financing relevant to the target transaction. Relevant advisers in the markets involved can be coordinated around defined responsibilities. Significant findings should inform the investment terms and conditions, as well as the governance and integration plan that follows completion.
Do international structures require continuing review?
A structure should be reviewed when the business changes markets, ownership, financing, products or material contractual relationships. Obligations can also arise from the entity and transaction arrangements themselves. An ongoing mandate can identify the corporate and legal work required, with specialist advisers managing their disciplines, so that the structure continues to match the commercial reality.
