Located in Casablanca, Morocco, I&I Law Firm is a multidisciplinary firm offering a comprehensive suite of services to advise, assist, and guide clients traversing the complex landscape of business law. Following a year of immense accomplishment, the firm has seen further success in the African Excellence Awards 2024. Below, we speak to Ghiyta Iraqi, Managing Partner at I&I Law Firm, to learn more about the firm’s outstanding offerings.

The Moroccan representative of LEX AFRICA, I&I Law Firm was founded in 1975 and has worked for almost half a century to establish a reputation for delivering high quality solutions steeped in rich, local expertise. The company advises a diverse base of discerning clientele, located both in Morocco and internationally. With a multinational team, the firm ensures that its services are highly accessible and cater to the languages of Arabic, English, and French.

The firm provides legal assistance and guidance on a wide range of topics in regard to business law and arbitration. Such topics include corporate law, commercial law, intellectual property law and digital law, banking and fintech law, pharmaceutical and health law, and mediation and arbitration.

“Be local, think international.”

At its core, I&I Law Firm strives to provide high quality services on both a local and international level. The firm has built extensive experience in international law, having aided clients in numerous successful cross-border transactions. The international experience it has acquired throughout the years, combined with the quality and efficacy of its established processes, allow I&I Law Firm to offer top-tier services that are in accordance with recognised international standards.

The firm is also the Moroccan representative of ADVOC, an international network of independent law firms sharing international expertise in jurisdictions across the globe. The network brings together more than 92 law firms from around the world, all recognised by their clients and peers for their expertise, professionalism, and responsiveness. Each member of this network has a proven record of immediate response to the needs of clients from other firms within the network.

Its position as representative of Morocco demonstrates I&I Law Firm’s dedication to broadening its international reach, developing an in-depth understanding of various international regulations, and its commitment to empowering and uplifting its peers from around the world. Such experience further strengthens I&I Law Firm’s prowess in the field of business law, having built a wealth of knowledge representative of global expertise.

“Our DNA is to be a local law firm offering a comprehensive approach of local specificities,” Ghiyta tells us, “while working in an international framework within international standards. We can, then, assist our client, from the legal assessment to the project to its implementation, including the corporation of the company, drafting all contractual documents, and obtaining the necessary permits.”

Providing top-tier services is crucial to I&I Law Firm, a firm driven by its client-centricity. The firm has established strong relationships with its clients, built upon its reliable deliverance of quality, trust, transparency, and mutual respect. By striving to swifty identify their needs and provide tailored, effective solutions, I&I Law Firm offers its clients a personalised and pragmatic service that demonstrates its commitment to their success.

“We are very close to our clients and fully dedicated to them,” says Ghiyta, “which is why responsiveness is key.” In fact, the firm’s prime commitments are remaining relevance and responsive to its clientele, achievable through an efficient case management system, accurate work methodology, and rigorous quality control. Clients can feel confident, not only in I&I Law Firm’s capabilities, but also its dedication to delivering only the very best results through streamlined services.

This dedication is further facilitated by I&I Law Firm’s passion for professional growth and development; the firm cultivates a friendly and warm working environment, but one of high standards and quality. I&I Law Firm provides training sessions covering various areas of law and its applications, as well as changing regulations, to ensure a consistent level of expertise across the team.

Looking ahead, Ghiyta tells us that I&I Law Firm has its sights set on progression. “In 2025, I&I Law Firm will continue the development we have made so far,” she concludes. “In 2015, there were no international clients in the law firm. Now, 80% of our clients are international.”

With its vast expertise in both local and international law, experienced and motivated team of professionals, and unwavering commitment to client satisfaction, I&I Law Firm continues to operate as a leading figure in business law. Since its inception, I&I Law Firm has demonstrated a passion that has remained unparalleled by its peers, earning the firm the title of Best Litigation and Arbitrage Law Firm 2024 – Morocco.

For business enquiries, contact Ghiyta Iraqi from I&I Law Firm on their website – https://www.iilawfirm.ma/

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Karen Holden, one of the UK’s most forward-thinking and disruptive legal minds, and CEO of A City Law Firm , has partnered with accelerator agency Asiarath in Dubai to help UK businesses navigate opportunities in the booming Middle Eastern market.

With UK businesses facing challenges from rising taxes and economic uncertainty, Karen is spearheading the first of an exclusive two-part event series, to help rapidly scaling tech companies unlock growth potential in both the UK and the UAE.

The initiative kicks off with a London conference on the 19th November 2024, where a Dubai delegation will join Karen to explain the vast opportunities in the region. The second part will take place in Dubai, offering founders a deep dive into the UAE’s business landscape, alongside partners, Thinking Hat PR and Founders to Leaders (F2L).

The London conference will offer attendees valuable insights on how to expand their operations and seek investments, both in the UK and internationally, while connecting with key players in the UK and UAE ecosystem. 

A standout feature of the event is the opportunity for founders to submit a 3-minute video pitch and deck for review by UK investors. Three will be selected to pitch live at the event for direct feedback, and all remaining pitches will be shared with UAE investors for further consideration. It’s an invaluable chance to connect with funders from both regions.

Following the conference, participants will have the opportunity to attend an exclusive three-day event in Dubai, where founders will dive deep into the UAE’s thriving business landscape, explore government grants worth up to $5 million, and meet equity funders, mentors, and decision-makers. It will also outline how to set up and fastrack operations in Dubai. 

Key speakers include:

• Marta Gelencser, MD of US Capital Global, with over 30 years of international banking experience.
• Lisa Fox, Finance professional from Guinness Ventures, specialising in high-growth companies.
• Martin Taylor, Investment Director at Regionally Ventures, who has raised over £1bn in equity.
• Yatin Y Thakur, Founder & Dubai Representative of Asiarath, a venture builder supporting scale-ups in the UAE.

Karen Holden, CEO of A City Law Firm, said:

“The UAE is fast becoming a go-to destination for UK businesses seeking stability, growth, and lower taxation. Our event offers a unique opportunity for tech founders to tap into this thriving market and gain the connections, insights, and funding they need to scale globally.”

For businesses looking to tap into one of the world’s fastest-growing business hubs, register your interest here for more information.

The post UK’s Most Disruptive Lawyer Helping Tech Founders to Scale in UK & Booming UAE Market appeared first on MEA Markets.

While the global economy is becoming increasingly interconnected, the need for standardized financial processes has never been greater. Continuous Transaction Controls offer a relatively new approach to transaction data reporting and verification that promises to streamline tax compliance and bolster financial integrity.

Definition of CTCs

Continuous transaction controls (CTCs) represent a transformative shift in financial procedures, requiring the mandatory reporting and verification of transaction data, such as invoice information, by tax authorities through e-invoicing or real-time transaction listings.

These controls empower tax administrations to access and scrutinize business operations from a company’s management system, facilitating detailed record-keeping for VAT regulatory audits.

The core goals of CTCs include combating tax evasion, enhancing tax collection, and minimizing fraud.

Benefits of CTCs for the tax administration

By leveraging CTCs, tax administrations can accurately and promptly identify transactions subject to taxation, thereby narrowing the VAT gap between expected and actual collections.

CTCs enable proactive monitoring of business activities, guaranteeing a thorough understanding of local tax regulations. This ongoing monitoring also helps to reconcile discrepancies in VAT declaration and remittance.

Centralized and decentralized CTC models around the globe

Various countries have adopted centralized or decentralized models of CTCs. For instance, Mexico and Chile mandate businesses to settle invoices through a tax administration system prior to transmission to buyers, while others such as Guatemala and Panama employ unique versions of the clearance model. European countries such as Italy and Romania have also embraced CTC solutions, following the successful implementations in Latin America.

France will enforce electronic invoicing and reporting for every transaction starting September 2026. This involves utilizing a centralized digital invoicing system or authorized service providers. The operational models in France may either be centralized CTC if connected to the official platform or decentralized if intermediated by certified providers.

Hungary introduced a real-time invoice reporting (RTIR) CTC model in 2018, where taxable entities report invoice data promptly to the tax authority’s online system.

Electronic invoicing itself is not rigorously controlled in the Hungarian model. Nonetheless, suppliers are required to swiftly declare a part of the e-document to the tax administration in a specified format after the issuance and reception. Subsequently, the tax authority verifies each transaction to approve or decline it.

Germany has implemented the B2G e-invoicing mandate in 2020 and plans to adopt a countrywide CTC model by 2028. For now, B2B electronic invoicing still stays facultative.

In Poland, the proposed KSeF platform will require invoice validation at the time of issuance. Additionally, the Ministry of Finance has proposed new implementation dates for this requirement:

• February 1, 2026, for entities with annual turnovers exceeding 200 million PLN
• April 1, 2026, for all other entities.

PEPPOL CTC model

The PEPPOL network is an international platform for the easy interchange of electronic documents, which is widely adopted by countries such as Sweden, Finland, and Norway. To exchange digital invoices and other documents, members must use a PEPPOL Service Provider or PEPPOL Access Point. The PEPPOL network keeps improving and strives to become the universal B2B transaction standard. Employing the four-corner model, senders and receivers engage with their service providers autonomously, separately from the tax administration’s supervision.

In systems utilizing the PEPPOL network with an integrated reporting component, often referred to as the ‘five corner model,’ the fifth corner serves as the channel through which transaction data is transmitted to tax agencies in real-time, thereby enhancing business automation and tax administration control.

Multiple local vendors or one technology provider?

Keeping up with diverse tax regulations across jurisdictions can be daunting, prompting many multinational corporations to seek CTC solutions from reliable vendors. Utilizing a single technology partner streamlines compliance efforts, ensuring adherence to local obligations globally.

The post Transforming Global Finance: The Impact of Continuous Transaction Controls on Tax Compliance appeared first on MEA Markets.

Nigeria will benefit much more if all agencies of government can synergise seamlessly

The Nigerian maritime sector has different surveillance systems that monitor activities in order to checkmate illegal operations and enhance security. In this report, TOLA ADENUBI looks at why the two major platforms, C4i and Falcon Eye, need to deepen collaboration.

With the level of insecurity in the Gulf of Guinea (GoG) and the Nigerian waters in the recent past, the need to monitor activities within the maritime domain led to the launch of satellite surveillance systems by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and the Nigerian Navy.

While the sector has benefitted immensely from the launch of the two satellite surveillance systems, the absence of collaboration between these two surveillance systems has led to gaps in the recent past and calls for deeper integration.

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NIMASA surveillance system

The surveillance system being operated by NIMASA is called the NIMASA Command Control Computer Communication Information System, otherwise referred to as C4i System.

The NIMASA C4i centre, with manpower composition from all security services in Nigeria, is the central nerve for the Deep Blue Project with the use of modern technology to achieve security information sharing real time amongst all the Deep Blue assets which include special mission vessels, helicopters, aircraft, fast intervention vessels and specially purpose-built armoured vehicles.

The C4i is the central nerve serving as the base for situational intelligence gathering, synchronising situational security reports on land, air and the maritime domain in Nigeria and analysing the same in real time for the Deep Blue Project.

Navy surveillance system

The Nigerian Navy surveillance system is called the Falcon Eye System. The Falcon Eye system is a state-of-the-art surveillance facility that incorporates various sensors located along the nation’s enormous coastline, such as radars, long range electro optic systems with thermal or night vision capability, automatic identification system receivers, weather stations and marine very high frequency (VHF) radios for communication.

The integration of these sensors into the Falcon Eye system generates a real-time situational awareness of the activities of vessels in Nigerian maritime domain and some selected parts in the Gulf of Guinea.

Call for collaboration

There have been calls in the recent past for the two surveillance system to collaborate and not work at cross-purposes, with the Minister of State for Defence, Honourable Bello Matawalle, highlighting this recently during his tour of the C4i System in Lagos.

During his visit, Matawalle stated that the Federal Government is committed to deepening the integration of the operations of the NIMASA C4i system and the Falcon Eye system for optimal security of the Nigerian maritime space.

Matawalle said Nigeria will benefit much more if all agencies of government can synergise seamlessly and improve information sharing among one another for the benefit of the country. He called for enhanced synergy between the Nigerian Navy and NIMASA, especially with the C4i system and the Falcon Eye, which are platforms that will massively complement each other.

He said, “I am delighted at what I have seen at NIMASA C4i centre and our goal is to see how it can be integrated with the Falcon Eye of the Nigeria Navy because all we need is to secure our maritime domain, therefore, the Navy and NIMASA must work together to create the desired maritime environment for a prosperous maritime economy.

“We want them to work together and to be integrated so that they will be communicating with each other. If the Falcon Eye and C4i are communicating effectively, our maritime space will be devoid of security challenges and this will boost the courage of both local and foreign investors in the sector.”

In his remarks, Director-General of NIMASA, Dr Dayo Mobereola, expressed delight at the minister’s visit, stating that effective synchronisation of the NIMASA C4i and the Falcon Eye of the Nigerian Navy will add to the strides of the Federal Government in reaping the benefits of the blue economy.

The NIMASA DG, who was represented by the agency’s Executive Director, Operations, Engr. Fatai Adeyemi, said improved information sharing between NIMASA and Navy will enhance capability of the security agencies in curbing maritime crimes in Nigerian waters.

“We are glad to receive the Minister of State, Defence at NIMASA C4i today. This is simply a show of commitment of this administration to effective collaboration amongst all organs of government to achieve a common goal and in this instance, maritime security.

“You heard what the minister said about integrating the C4i with the Falcon Eye. I believe that is a step in the right direction. And I am sure by the time that this is done, it is going to give us a more secure marine environment,” he said.

‘Working in isolation creates security lapses, spurs rivalry’

The C4i and the Falcon Eye have mostly operated independent of each other since inception, with both systems sometimes not sharing information with each other, which often leads to security gaps within the nation’s maritime space.

“It is important that the Falcon Eye and the C4i talk to each other every minute. If this is happening, then Nigeria’s maritime space will be better secure. The era where both systems operate independently of each other is not good for the country because this often leads to hoarding of information from each other.

“When both systems are not in sync, they tend to want to start competing with each other and this is not good for our maritime space. We need both systems not to see each other as rivals but as one body working for the same purpose.

“Criminals are always out to exploit gaps in security operations to carry out their nefarious activities. When both systems hoard intelligence because they want to outwit each other, then it gives room for criminals to perpetrate their evil deeds.

“If both surveillance systems start communicating, the improvement in maritime security that Nigeria has recorded in recent past will further increase and the nation will be the beneficiary of such collaboration. It will even cost the nation less to monitor her maritime space when both systems are communicating,” a maritime security expert and former Senior Special Assistant on Maritime Affairs to the Presidency, Mr Gbenga Leke Oyewole, told the Nigerian Tribune.

The post Why Nigeria’s Maritime Surveillance Systems Need To Deepen Integration appeared first on MEA Markets.

CRM software is designed to streamline your interactions with current and potential clients, which is particularly crucial in the Middle East, where relationship-building is deeply rooted in cultural norms. It offers a centralized platform to organize contact information, track leads, automate key tasks, and analyze your sales pipeline, enabling you to navigate the unique nuances of the Middle Eastern market more effectively.

By examining the successful implementation of robust CRM systems by real estate agents in other regions, such as the United States, it becomes evident that you can reap significant benefits in critical areas of your Middle Eastern real estate business. A well-suited CRM makes it easier to capture and nurture leads, automate time-consuming processes, and deliver personalized service that resonates with the values and expectations of Middle Eastern clients, ultimately leading to growth in your bottom line. In essence, CRM for real estate agents is a transformative tool in the Middle East who are seeking to elevate their business to new heights while respecting the region’s distinct cultural landscape.

Lead management

CRM software enables real estate agents to efficiently capture leads from a variety of sources, such as their website, social media, and online ads, and manage them all in one centralized system. This prevents leads from falling through the cracks.

With CRM software, leads can be automatically scored and prioritized based on key criteria like budget, timeline, and property preferences. Agents can also easily track each lead’s activities and behaviors, such as website visits, email opens, and social media engagement, to gauge their readiness to buy.

All of this rich data is accessible to everyone on the team, allowing for seamless collaboration and well-coordinated lead follow-up. Agents can see, at-a-glance, where each lead stands in the pipeline and what next steps to take. By keeping leads engaged and moving forward, agents can convert more leads into clients and grow their business.

Automation and efficiency

One of the biggest benefits of a real estate CRM is the automation of time-consuming tasks. CRMs can automatically send follow-up emails, schedule appointments, and trigger reminders, freeing up agents to focus on revenue-generating activities like meeting with clients and showing properties.

Workflows for key processes like lead nurturing and transaction management can be standardized in the CRM. This ensures that all agents are following best practices and no critical steps are missed.

A CRM system also serves as a centralized hub for all the information agents need to do their job effectively. From lead and client data to property details and transaction documents, everything is accessible in one system. No more wasting time hunting through scattered spreadsheets, notes, and emails.

As seen from the leading agents in Europe and also in the USA, the best CRM for real estate agents allows you to work more efficiently and productively. You can start spending time on the highest-value activities that drive business growth.

Strengthening client relationships

A real estate CRM provides agents with a comprehensive, 360-degree view of each client, enabling them to deliver highly personalized services. By tracking every interaction, noting client preferences, and monitoring key milestones, agents can reach out with relevant, timely communications that demonstrate their attentiveness and commitment to the client’s needs.

Moreover, a CRM empowers agents to nurture relationships at scale through automated “touches.” Birthday and anniversary greetings, holiday wishes, and other thoughtful check-ins can be automatically triggered, ensuring agents stay top-of-mind with their sphere of influence without adding more to their plate. These consistent, personalized interactions help to build trust and loyalty, fostering strong, long-lasting relationships with clients.

A real estate CRM also enables agents to provide unparalleled service by keeping detailed records of each client’s unique preferences, needs, and goals. Whether it’s remembering a client’s favorite neighborhoods, preferred home features, or specific financial considerations, having this information at their fingertips allows agents to tailor their approach and offer highly relevant recommendations. The benefits of this level of personalization are seen globally, making clients feel valued and understood, setting the stage for a positive, productive working relationship.

Perhaps most powerfully, CRM supports agents in providing exceptional post-sale service. By segmenting past clients for targeted outreach and automating referral and review requests, agents can generate a steady stream of repeat and referral business – the lifeblood of a thriving real estate career. Staying in touch with past clients, offering helpful resources, and showing genuine interest in their well-being positions agents as trusted advisors, increasing the likelihood of future transactions and referrals.

The must-have tool

In today’s competitive real estate world, a CRM software is simply a must-have tool for agents serious about building a successful and sustainable business. By leveraging the power of a CRM to work smarter, not harder, agents can strengthen client relationships, stay organized and productive, and ultimately, take their career to new heights.

If you’re a real estate professional looking to differentiate yourself and deliver exceptional client experiences, it’s time to explore CRM solutions. With the right real estate CRM in your corner, you’ll be well-positioned to build the thriving real estate practice you’ve always envisioned.

Implementing CRM may seem daunting at first, but the long-term benefits far outweigh any short-term learning curve. Many CRM providers offer training and support to help you get up and running quickly, and most platforms are designed to be user-friendly and intuitive. Plus, with the time you’ll save on manual tasks and the increased efficiency you’ll gain, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without one.

The post The Benefits of Using CRM for Real Estate Agents appeared first on MEA Markets.

The Middle East and Africa (MEA) region, with its thriving business landscape, is no stranger to these kinds of disputes. Given the potential complexities of litigation in this region – varying laws, languages, and cultural norms – arbitration has emerged as a preferred method for resolving breach of contract disputes.

The following post delves into the role of arbitration in resolving breach of contract disputes in the MEA region, demonstrating its importance and effectiveness.

Understanding Breach of Contract

A breach of contract is a legal term describing the violation of a contract or an agreement that occurs when one party fails to fulfill its promises according to the provisions of the agreement. It’s an act of breaking the terms and conditions set out in a contract. The breach can occur when one party fails to perform on time, does not perform in accordance with the terms of the agreement, or does not perform at all.

The types of contract breaches commonly seen in the MEA region are no different from those globally recognized. They include minor breaches, material breaches, fundamental breaches, and anticipatory breaches.

The consequences of a breach of contract can vary greatly depending on the specifics of the contract and the breach. Generally, the law provides remedies for the injured party, usually in the form of damages to compensate for the losses incurred due to the breach.

In some cases, if money cannot adequately compensate, a court may order performance or injunction to prevent further breach. However, it’s worth noting that all breaches can lead to serious legal and financial repercussions, damage business relationships, and impact reputation.

The Role of Arbitration

Arbitration is a method of resolving disputes outside the traditional courtroom setting, where an impartial third party, known as an arbitrator, makes a decision after considering all the relevant information. It’s often used in commercial disputes and is a common method of dispute resolution in the MEA region, especially in breach of contract cases.

Arbitration works by allowing both parties to present their case in a less formal setting than a court. Each party has the opportunity to present evidence and arguments to the arbitrator, who then makes a decision, known as an award. In many jurisdictions within the MEA region, this award is legally binding and enforceable, much like a court judgment. The process is often quicker and more flexible than court proceedings, and it can be confidential, which can be particularly beneficial in commercial disputes where privacy is a concern.

The use of arbitration in breach of contract cases comes with several benefits. Firstly, it can be a faster and more efficient process than going through the courts, saving both time and money. Secondly, the parties have the freedom to choose their arbitrator, which means they can select someone with specific expertise in the area of law relevant to their dispute. Lastly, because the arbitration process is less formal, it can help preserve business relationships by avoiding the adversarial nature of litigation. 

Arbitration in MEA

Arbitration laws and practices vary across the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region, but there is a common trend towards reform and modernization. In the Middle East, countries like the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar have been updating their arbitration laws to align with international standards. The UAE, in particular, is recognized as a popular seat of choice for arbitration proceedings. Many of these reforms are influenced by the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) Model Law, which is considered the gold standard in international arbitration.

The practice of arbitration in resolving breach of contract disputes has seen some notable cases in the MEA region. For instance, in the UAE, the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) have emerged as leading arbitration centers handling complex commercial disputes, including high-profile contract breaches. 

While specific cases are often kept confidential due to the private nature of arbitration, it’s clear that arbitration plays a crucial role in the region’s dispute resolution landscape. It’s also worth noting that regional arbitral institutions are proliferating, demonstrating the increasing use and acceptance of arbitration in the MEA region.

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