Morgan & Morgan advised Sojitz Corporation on the acquisition of Petroautos, S.A., authorized Hyundai distributor in Panama.

Panama, June 11, 2025. Morgan & Morgan acted as legal counsel to Sojitz Corporation in the acquisition of 100% of the shares of Petroautos, S.A., the exclusive distributor of the Hyundai brand in Panama. With over 30 years of experience, Petroautos has established itself as one of the leading players in the Panamanian automotive sector, operating a network of nine dealerships nationwide and offering comprehensive services ranging from vehicle importation and sales to after-sales service and spare parts.

According to a statement from Sojitz Corporation, this transaction represents a strategic step for the Japanese conglomerate, which has over 50 years of experience in automotive distribution across more than 50 countries. In Panama, Sojitz is already actively involved in the automotive sector through its subsidiary Sílaba Motors, the authorized distributor of KIA, MAZDA, OMODA, JAECOO, KARRY, and NIU. With the addition of Petroautos, Sojitz Corporation significantly strengthens its presence in the country and expands its portfolio of leading automotive brands in the local market, reinforcing Sojitz’s commitment to long-term investment in Panama.

The legal team from Morgan & Morgan was led by partners Inocencio Galindo and Roberto Vidal, along with international associate Miguel Arias, with the support of José Rafael Reyes, partner at the firm’s tax department, who provided tax advisory services for the transaction.

As a key part of the process, Morgan & Morgan also conducted a thorough legal due diligence of Petroautos and its operations. This work was led by partners Inocencio Galindo and Roberto Vidal, together with international associate Miguel Arias, and supported by partner Milagros Caballeros, senior associate Allen Candanedo, associates Arantxa Fernández, Ariana Linares, Katia Pallares, and associate David Ramos.

We congratulate Sojitz Corporation on this important milestone and express our sincere gratitude for the trust placed in our firm. We are proud to have supported Sojitz Corporation in this strategic investment, which not only strengthens its footprint in Panama but also contributes to the continued growth of foreign direct investment in the country.