Ibarra Rimon

Boutique firm specialized in competition and international trade matters led by Gabriel Ibarra Pardo, who possesses more than 30 years of experience on the field which makes him one of the most well-known and respected competition lawyers in Colombia. Clients value that their matters are managed directly by a partner with widely recognized experience. Both the practice area and the Firm’s partners are known for their accessibility, and for the personalized attention given to the Firm’s clients. Clients recognize the innovative and creative solutions that the practice offers in a timely manner. Due to joint work performed with the international trade practice, and with the now developing energy and gas practice, the Firm has an interdisciplinary perspective of issues, which includes economic and public policy arguments. The Firm works jointly with economists, bankers, engineers, auditors, and statutory auditors, so as to provide a complete service to clients. In regards to antitrust investigations, the Firm’s policy is that the same team handles the administrative investigation, and the eventual judicial process before Colombian courts in order to challenge any sanction imposed. This allows us to draw a complete strategy from the beginning of the investigation, which will be compatible with the defence to be presented within the judicial process. Also, it guarantees that such process will be managed with thorough knowledge of the previous investigation. The Firm participates in the leading cases of antitrust investigations undertaken by the Superintendence of Industry and Commerce, and by Colombian courts. For instance, Ibarra Abogados represents the interests of Grupo Aval, Colombia’s largest financial group, in the investigation conducted by the Competition Protection Office of the Superintendence of Industry and Commerce in the renowned “Ruta del Sol” case. Likewise, the Firm counsels and represents the French multinational VINCI and VÌA 40 EXPRESS S.A.S. in the investigation conducted by that same Office, in the “Tercer Carril” case. The Firm also represents the interests of national and international companies in proceedings regarding merger control before the Superintendence of Industry and Commerce. Mr. Ibarra is a weekly columnist in the economic journal “La República”.