A recent surprise decision by Australian firm Clayton Utz to open a Hong Kong office does not represent a departure from the firm's traditional relationships-based approach to international operations, says CEP David Fagan. The decision will see Clayton Utz arrive in Hong Kong some 20 years after rival fellow Aussie firm Mallesons first entered that market.

"This move doesn't derogate from what we've done with Lex Mundi or PRAC -  it's a logical extension of the construction and major projects work we've done in Asia," Fagan told ALB. "We remain committed to our relationships with local Hong Kong firms. In fact, we expect there will be more opportunities to work with local firms in the region as the result of our having a presence on the ground in Hong Kong."

The two partner office will be led by Glenn Haley, who most recently headed Deacons' Hong Kong construction practice, and Clayton Utz partner Colin Dodd, who has been based in Hong Kong for a number of years. The office will focus on construction and major projects and international dispute resolution, although expansion into other areas is not being ruled out.

Related stories:

• Clayton Utz moves quickly to fill void (12 Feb 2010)
• ANALYSIS: Allen & Overy arrives, Clayton Utz bleeds – what next? (10 Feb 2010)