Amid geopolitical shifts and the restructuring of global supply chains, companies are actively seeking opportunities for cross-border mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and regional expansion. Baker McKenzie Taipei, in collaboration with EY Taiwan, held the “2025 International M&A and Investment Forum” on October 22 in Taipei, inviting professionals from Taiwan, South Korea and Indonesia to analyze the investment environment and M&A regulations in the Asia Pacific region. This initiative aims to help businesses grasp global capital trends and enhance regional competitiveness.
The forum, themed “M&A Strategies in the Context of Global Supply Chain Restructuring: From Taiwan to the World,” attracted over a hundred senior executives and legal and financial professionals. Discussions focused on regulatory challenges, government review mechanisms, transaction documentation and M&A strategies for family businesses. Two comprehensive panel discussions were held to share practical experiences and best practices.
Geopolitical and Regulatory Changes Drive New M&A Dynamics
The opening remarks were delivered by Managing Partner Grace Shao from Baker McKenzie Taipei, who emphasized, “The rapid changes in geopolitical dynamics and tariff policies are accelerating global supply chain restructuring. We are actively assisting Taiwanese companies in seeking M&A opportunities in the Asia Pacific market, strengthening regional competitiveness and enhancing capital efficiency through strategic expansion and regulatory knowledge.”
Senior Consultant Louis Liu likened the cross-border M&A environment to a “jungle adventure,” highlighting the critical role of government approvals in transactions. He stated, “Companies that proactively understand the review standards and latest policy directions related to permissions can effectively reduce transaction uncertainties, accelerating asset allocation and market entry.”
Transaction Documentation and Integration Strategies are Key to M&A Success
Partner Mark Tu shared, “Transaction documents serve as the legal foundation of the M&A structure and are crucial for risk management and value creation. Precisely designing terms and responsibilities can effectively safeguard transaction security and enhance integration efficiency.”
Partner Gwyneth Gu emphasized, “The key to successful cross-border M&A lies in a clear investment strategy, internal team communication and external team support. With the support provided by our Firm, combined with our global experience and expertise, companies are able to establish M&A objectives and strategies, accelerating resource integration before and after the deal.”
Partner Fang-Yi Jen shared, “Merger control review is an essential part of the overall transaction strategy that requires early planning and careful evaluation. By working closely with legal teams from the outset to understand the differences and risks across jurisdictions, companies can approach cross-border investments with greater confidence and efficiency.”
Regarding the M&A needs of family businesses, Partner Peggy Chiu noted, “Family businesses can utilize cross-border M&A or corporate acquisition laws for restructuring, using family offices and family capital for upstream and downstream mergers. This not only complies with regulations but also provides flexibility and tax advantages in M&A strategies.”
Insights from Partners in Indonesia and South Korea
The forum also featured partners from HHP Law Firm and Baker McKenzie & KL Partners Joint Venture Law Firm, who shared insights into the investment environments and key M&A regulations in Indonesia and South Korea. Daniel Pardede, a Partner at HHP Law Firm, pointed out that the Indonesian government actively promotes foreign investment in infrastructure and the digital economy. However, he cautioned that special attention should be given to the approval processes of financial regulatory authorities and antitrust reviews in M&A transactions. Partners Albert Joon Kyo Chung and Seong Hoon (Sean) Yi from Baker McKenzie KLP JV shared that South Korea has strict regulations regarding foreign ownership ratios, industry sensitivity and fair trade laws in M&A transactions. Companies should collaborate early with local legal advisers to understand policy trends and review priorities to mitigate transaction risks.
Creating a Successful M&A Formula with a Global Perspective and Local Expertise
Toward the end of the forum, Senior Consultant Kevin Wang stated, “In the face of rapidly changing global political and economic landscapes, companies must combine global perspectives with local insights to seize opportunities in cross-border M&A and investment strategies for sustainable growth.” He further noted that Baker McKenzie has a global team of over 300 professionals across more than 70 offices, continuously assisting businesses with complex transactions, including cross-border M&A, private equity investments, corporate restructuring, joint ventures and capital market operations. By integrating expertise in corporate governance, antitrust, taxation, labor law, intellectual property and dispute resolution, Baker McKenzie can tailor the most forward-looking and feasible M&A strategies for its clients.
Kevin emphasized, “We are not just legal advisers; we are strategic partners in our clients’ global transformation. Moving forward, Baker McKenzie will continue to focus on innovation, collaboration and professionalism, working hand in hand with businesses to face challenges, expand horizons and create new opportunities from Taiwan to the world.”
The forum was covered by prominent Taiwanese media outlets, including Commercial Times and Economy Daily.