Akin is an elite global law firm with a market-leading international trade practice advising multinational companies, financial institutions, sovereigns and industry groups on the legal and commercial risks that shape global trade. Our international trade practice comprises 118 professionals and is among the largest of its kind globally. Our London-based team comprises 11 lawyers, including UK, EU, Swiss and U.S.-qualified attorneys. With a fully integrated platform spanning the United Kingdom, the European Union, Switzerland, the United States, the Middle East and Asia, we deliver coordinated, multi-jurisdictional advice across the full spectrum of trade regulation.

Akin’s international trade team is widely recognised for guiding clients through geopolitically sensitive and commercially critical issues, particularly where legal regimes diverge. We advise on economic sanctions, export controls, customs, trade compliance, national security and trade policy, providing practical, decision-ready guidance on issues central to global business operations.

Our sanctions practice spans the full range of global regimes, including those administered by the United Kingdom, European Union, Switzerland, United Nations and the United States. We support clients on compliance, licensing, enforcement risk, investigations and strategic engagement with regulators, helping businesses maintain continuity while managing evolving restrictions on trade and finance.

Akin’s international trade and sanctions team is consistently recognised by leading directories including Chambers and The Legal 500. Clients highlight the team’s “clear and practical advice” and “incredible speed and quality,” and praise its ability to provide “holistic support on complex multinational issues.”

From advising on complex, cross-border sanctions programmes to supporting global compliance frameworks and high-stakes transactions, as well as disputes, including matters before the World Trade Organization, Akin is a trusted partner for organisations navigating the intersection of law, policy and international commerce.