This week, another look at what Chinese firms are doing outside of the country. I asked lawyers and industry observers alike why on earth we aren't seeing Chinese law firms making headway globally despite years of trying to internationalize. The answer I got? Be patient. It will happen, the trend won't reverse, but there needs to be an adjustment of expectations. And I have a few notes towards the end regarding who's eligible to enter the China Law & Practice Awards. Read on. 

But before we turn the attention to China, a little bit more on Singapore still. My colleague Justin Henry talked to partners and recruiters about how some U.S. firms are finding success in prioritizing Singapore and Southeast Asia over Greater China. Case in point: Duane Morris, which has been held up as an example for avoiding the crowd in Hong Kong and taking the unconventional route in Southeast Asia. Now we also have some numbers: between Singapore and the Vietnam offices, the firm pulls in roughly $20 million every year. It had a total turnover of $526 million last year. So we have some references. That's a good place to start. Read Justin's story here if you haven't. 

From Law.com International in Hong Kong, this is the Asia Legal Briefing. I am Anna Zhang, here to help you digest some of the stories my colleagues and I write about the law and the business of law in Asia. You can also find this briefing here on our website and sign up to receive copies directly in your inbox. And feel free to share comments and feedback at [email protected] or on Twitter @lawdotcomasia. 


Chinese flag covering the globe Credit: Pixels Hunter/Adobe Stock