Holman Fenwick Willan is set to bulk up its Asia practice with a number of hires and relocations as the firm's focus on the region increases.

Ex-Simmons & Simmons corporate partner Jonathan Moult is joining the firm's Hong Kong office in September, while shipping and transport partner David Coogans, formerly of Reed Smith Richards Butler in Hong Kong, is set to join Holman's Sydney base in July.

In addition, City partner Guy Hardaker and current Shanghai head Paul Aston are set to relocate to the firm's Singapore office this summer.

Aston will take over the leadership of the base from July, while Hardaker will join the firm's local trade and commodities practice on his move to Singapore in August.

Asia-Pacific managing partner Paul Hatzer said: "We have been gradually expanding in Asia for some time and these developments are a continuation of our investment across the Asia-Pacific region. In particular we see Singapore and Western Australia as being at the forefront of the development of offshore work in the energy field, and this is where much of our focus will be.

"For the first time this year the firm's international offices brought in almost 50% of fee income and there is no doubt that international firms have the East firmly in their sights."

Dispute resolution partner Henry Fung will succeed Aston as Shanghai chief.

The news follows Holman's launch of an aviation and aerospace practice with the acquisition of an eight-partner team from Barlow Lyde & Gilbert announced in March this year. The hires include three Asia-based partners across Barlows' Singapore and Hong Kong offices.

Holman Fenwick also launched an office in Perth earlier this month, marking the firm's third presence in Australia.