What an incredible turnout at our "Staying Ahead of the Curve: Legal Appetite for Sanctions and Tariffs Risks" event! This second chapter of the Skrine Signature Event Series 2025 brought together clients, partners, and industry leaders for conversations that truly matter.

We kicked off with a thought-provoking fireside chat featuring Artie McConnell (Partner, BakerHostetler - United Sates), and Manshan Singh, Partner of our International Trade Practice Group. The discussion shed light on the backdrop to the imposition of the U.S tariffs, the reasons why tariff evasion has become a high enforcement priority for the U.S. Department of Justice and how authorities are addressing this challenge. The session offered valuable insights on how businesses can manage shifting geopolitical realities and strengthen compliance strategies in a world of increasing scrutiny.

This was followed by an impactful Keynote Address by YB Liew Chin Tong , Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, who highlighted how Malaysia’s policy of neutrality in global trade has, in some cases, been misinterpreted to evade tariffs and sanctions. He called on both government and businesses to rethink long-term strategies, adapt to a changing global trade landscape, and prioritise legal preparedness as a key pillar of resilience.

Our second session was a dynamic panel discussion moderated by Lim Koon Huan, Partner and Head of Skrine’s International Trade Practice Group, featuring Dr. Graham Ong-Webb (Senior VP, Kroll - Singapore) and Menghao Dai (Partner, King & Wood Mallesons - China). The conversation unpacked trade compliance issues, the complexities of supply chains, and strategies for businesses operating in a multipolar world where sanctions increasingly define risk management.

The evening closed with remarks from Kumar Kanagasabai, Partner and Chair of our Business Development Committee, who emphasised the goal of this event: to foster collaboration, spark thought leadership and build meaningful connections—combining legal insight with curated, engaging experiences.

Guests then enjoyed a networking session with a creative twist— tariff and sanctions-inspired culinary stations and an enchanting live harp performance by celebrated artist Katrin Romanova from Russia, blending contemporary and classical melodies that transcended borders.

A heartfelt thank you to The Honourable Deputy Minister, our clients, and friends for making this event a success.