In 2005 the new Ukrainian authorities declared that Ukraine welcomes both foreign and domestic investments policies to encourage them. At the same time, although the authorities are well aware of the need of capital from abroad, certain actions taken by them seemed to cause a slowing of direct investments in the first half of the year. In particular, the obvious foreign investments slowdown resulted from the announcement that specific investment incentive projects (such as special economic zones) were suspended or canceled. Despite the above context and the fact that foreign investment legislation in Ukraine is imperfect, investors appreciate country's positive environment. Some recent acquisitions are clear evidence that there are a significant number of acquisition targets and the bulk of privatization is not complete yet. Banking and real estate remain the most attractive areas for investors and we can expect further growth provided that the attitude of business community remains positive and government follows clear-cut investor friendly policies combined with the harmonization with EU and WTO requirements.

Lexwell & Partners deals with a number of investment projects in Ukraine. The experience of the firm's attorneys includes handling various transactions and investments for their clients, including negotiations, structuring and managing investments, drafting investment agreements and handling litigations regarding foreign investments. Lexwell&Partners is currently representing several leading foreign corporations in a series of investments in Ukraine for a sum of investments totaling over USD 50 million. The company's clients include Sumitomo, Cement Road Holding Plc., EurasHolding, Gas Ukraine and others.