Outbound investment in Russia: Learning from Jinbei's JV
September 07, 2012 | BY
clpstaff &clp articlesChinese car maker Jinbei has set up a joint venture in Russia. David Tring spoke with the lawyer who advised Jinbei about the complexities of the deal about why companies are looking across the northern border
“When foreign investors are first evaluating an acquisition in Russia, one of the most important considerations is whether there is a possibility that the target's business activities could be considered to be of strategic importance under Russian law,” said Simmons & Simmons' partner Eric Lin, who led the team advising Jinbei.
Shenyang Jinbei Vehicle Manufacturing is the light commercial vehicle subsidiary of Brilliance Auto Group. It is one of the largest Chinese manufacturers of trucks and is part of a growing number of Chinese companies who are looking to tap into Russia's expanding manufacturing market.
The deal was completed on August 28 and is worth $25.25 million. Jinbei holds 60% of the shares in the joint venture through a Hong Kong holding company. Jinbei's Russian partner holds the remaining shares and together they will manufacture Jinbei-brand light-duty trucks in Ulyanovsk, Russia.
Strategic companies
Russia places legal restrictions on foreign investment in industries it deems as strategic companies. These industries include military, telecoms, television and media, and in particular for Sino-Russian investment, mining, oil and gas.
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