Nishimura & Asahi “sits at the apex” of WTR 1000 rankings for Japan

Nishimura & Asahi has been ranked as “Gold band”, the highest level in Japan, and individual lawyers have been identified as experts in their respective practice areas, by the 2019 edition of World Trademark Review 1000 - The World’s Leading Trademark Professionals, published by Globe Business Publishing Ltd., London, UK.

According to World Trademark Review: “Firms and individuals in the gold band are those that attract the most positive comments from sources. We have identified them as the crème de la crème; their success often hinges on reputations established over lengthy periods of time, something which enables them to secure the most high-profile, big-ticket work from the most prestigious of clients.”

World Trademark Review’s commentary goes on to say that: “Nishimura & Asahi gathers glowing feedback from high-ranking foreign associates and sits at the apex of the WTR 1000 rankings for Japan. ‘Always striving to maximise clients’ interests, Nishimura & Asahi is far superior to the ordinary Japanese firm in the quality of advice, clarity of communications and fee arrangements. Things always get done in the right way and its impressive responsiveness means that clients can count on it to complete urgent projects.’ With 10 attorneys and 15 staff devoted to trademark work, the firm can tackle instructions of all stripes with verve. Branches in Asia, the Middle East and most recently New York, mean that the firm’s sphere of influence extends into Africa and Latin America, providing truly global coverage for Japanese companies flexing their trademark muscles in far-flung markets, especially when it comes to enforcement. Hitomi Iwase is the set’s foremost authority on contentious and transactional IP and IT issues. She stands out particularly for her work in the food, cosmetic and apparel sectors. “Exhibiting a high degree of professionalism and responsiveness,” Makoto Shiotani  is a source of “reliable, high-quality legal opinion”. Chairing numerous industry associations - including the Institute of Intellectual Property - of counsel Nobuhiro Nakayama  knows all about cutting-edge developments in Japanese intellectual property.”

Individuals: Enforcement and litigation (Silver)
   Hitomi Iwase   Nobuhiro Nakayama

Individuals: Prosecution and strategy
   Hitomi Iwase   Makoto Shiotani

Other recommended experts
   Masashi Kurose