Sérvulo confirms membership of China-focused law firm network

Portuguese law firm Sérvulo has confirmed it has joined a new international network focusing on the Chinese market.

The network, called Cathay Associates, was established by Beijing-based boutique law firm Kejie Law Office.

The Cathay Associates website claims that Spanish firm Rousaud Costas Duran (RCD) is also a member of the network, with RCD partner Ignasi Costas listed as the network contact for Barcelona and Madrid. But a RCD spokeswoman said: “We are still assessing the possibility of formally joining the alliance.”

The network claims its members consist of 14 law firms in Europe and Asia – other members listed include French firm Bersay Associés, Hungarian firm Várnai & Partners and Malaysian firm Azmi & Associates.

Sérvulo partner João Saúde said: “We decided to found Cathay Associates with lawyers with whom we had had experience in China and who shared Sérvulo’s taste for high-end complex matters, focused on tailor-made client-led advice.

“Expansion into China is essential for any business that wants to survive the global economy as it is today, and this applies to law firms as well, so Sérvulo joining Cathay Associates is in line with current trends. By being part of Cathay Associates, Sérvulo is able to assist Portuguese and other Lusophone clients wanting to enter the Chinese market, and Chinese clients interested in Portugal and other Lusophone countries.”