Shikun Gao

Managing Partner

About

I am the founder and managing partner of SHIMIN Foreign Legal Advisory (世民外国法事務弁護士事務所), a Tokyo-based practice dedicated to helping businesses navigate the complexities of China law, cross-border transactions, and geopolitical risk.With over two decades of experience spanning Japan, China, and the United States, I advise multinational corporations, Japanese enterprises, and institutional clients on:→ China market entry, restructuring, and exit strategies→ Geopolitical risk assessment and China risk management→ Export controls, economic sanctions, and trade compliance→ Cross-border M&A, corporate governance, and regulatory compliance→ US-China and Japan-China regulatory landscapesAs a registered Gaikokuho Jimu Bengoshi (外国法事務弁護士) in Japan, I bridge legal systems across jurisdictions, providing strategic counsel grounded in deep knowledge of Chinese law and the realities of operating in an era of heightened geopolitical tension.I also serve as Senior Advisor to the Tokyo office of Fisher Phillips, contributing to enterprise risk management and corporate governance matters.Active in international legal networks including IPBA, ABA, IBA, and GGI Global Alliance. Regular contributor on topics at the intersection of law, technology, and geopolitics.Languages: English, Chinese (Mandarin), Japanese📩 Open to connecting with professionals navigating the Asia cross-border landscape.

Country

Japan

City

Minato

Industry

Legal Services

Skill

贸易合规, 尽职调查, 国际贸易法, 经济制裁, 出口管制, 跨境交易, China Law, Risk Communication, Risk Management, Strategic Communications, Strategic Partnerships, risk strategic advisor, Operational Execution, Operational Control, Enterprise Risk Management, Corporate Law, Corporate Governance, International Law, Legal Advice, Dispute Resolution

Experience

Managing Partner

Shimin Foreign Legal Advisory

2010-10 - Present · 15 yrs 11 mos

Greater Tokyo Area

Provide strategic legal counsel on risk management and compliance for foreign enterprises engaged in activities related to China. Offer guidance on labor law, business risk management, and regulatory compliance to optimize cross-border operations. Lead complex international cases involving Japan, China, and the United States, leveraging over two decades of expertise.

Senior Advisor

Fisher Phillips Tokyo Office

2025-5 - Present · 1 yr 4 mos

Tokyo

Shikun Gao is a Senior Consultant at Fisher Phillips (Tokyo) and the founder of Shimin Foreign Law Office in Tokyo, bringing over 20 years of expertise in international law. He specializes in cross-border matters involving Japan, China, and the United States, enhancing Fisher Phillips’ ability to handle complex international cases throughout Asia. Shikun has extensive experience advising foreign companies on Chinese law, particularly in areas such as foreign investment, commercial law, administrative licensing, and regulatory compliance. He provides strategic legal counsel on risk management and compliance policies for foreign enterprises operating in China, helping them navigate legal challenges and business risks effectively.

Partner

Shimin Law Offices

1999-12 - Present · 26 yrs 9 mos

中華人民共和国シャンハイ市浦東新区

• Provide strategic legal counsel on risk management and compliance for foreign enterprises in China. • Advise on foreign investment, commercial law, and regulatory compliance, enhancing cross-border operations. • Lead complex international cases involving Japan, China, and the United States, leveraging over 20 years of expertise.