China's recent ban on new flotations on its mainland stock markets may boost flotations in Hong Kong, driving work for law firms there, according to partners in the region.

The Chinese government suspended new IPOs on 4 July in a bid to stabilise markets following weeks of falling share prices. Goldman Sachs has estimated that the country has spent $144bn (£92.7bn) since June in attempts to bolster the market.

It is not clear when the government will allow new floats on mainland markets.

Hong Kong had a slow start to the year but listings picked up in the second quarter, leaving IPO volume down 18% in H1 2015 compared to the same period last year, according to data from accountant EY. The figures show there were 31 IPOs in the first half of 2015, with deal value up by 53% year-on-year to $16bn (£10.4bn).

Examples of new listings in Hong Kong include China Railway Signal & Communication Corporation's listing last Friday which saw it become the first major Chinese company to float following the stock market crash. The listing, which handed roles to Kirkland & Ellis, for the transport company, and Clifford Chance (CC), for the underwriters, is indicative of a trend for Hong Kong being lifted by Chinese firms crossing the water to find investment.

CC also advised Huatai Securities on its $4.5bn (£2.9bn) IPO on the Hong Kong stock market in May, the largest Asia listing this year. Simpson Thacher & Bartlett advised the underwriters on that float.