Mainland law firm sets up HK office (hktdc.com)


	Duan Qi-hua, a partner in Duan and Duan (2nd from right) and InvestHK's Philip Kung (2nd from left) officiating at the ribbon-cutting ceremony with other guests

Chinese mainland law firm, Duan and Duan, recently opened its first office in the city. This is one of many firsts for this innovative legal practice. It was the first independent partnership law firm to establish itself in China and one of the first to launch into the international market, with offices in Seattle, United States.

With its new office in Hong Kong, the company will provide advice in corporate law, international investments and trade, finance, mergers and acquisitions, arbitration and litigation. With its proven track record within the mainland market and legal system, the company aims to guide clients through the cultural, linguistic and legal complexities of doing business in China. They have partnered with J. Lai and Company, an established Hong Kong law firm to further enhance their cross-border strengths and connections.

Duan Qi-hua, a partner in Duan and Duan said the company would focus on the legal needs of the local, mainland and international communities. "Hong Kong is the ideal base to set up operations. The city provides a platform for the international community to gain access to opportunities in China. Equally Chinese companies are able to use Hong Kong to launch themselves globally," he said.

Mr Duan, observed that since China’s accession to the World Trade Organisation a greater number of foreign companies were looking to invest in the Mainland. The country’s new found confidence was also reflected in the number of Chinese companies looking to expand on to the international stage.

"There is a huge demand from Hong Kong’s international business community for legal services which advise on successfully expanding into the Mainland. This is an ideal time for Duan and Duan to bring its experience to the Hong Kong market," said Mr Philip Kung, the Acting Associate-Director General of Investment Promotion at Invest Hong Kong. "Hong Kong has a strong legal community, which offers new companies in the city the chance for networking and referrals," he added. Source: InvestHK