International law firm DAC Beachcroft (DACB) has announced the opening of its new office in Hong Kong, marking a significant expansion in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region. This new location, according to a news release, will support the firm’s growing global offering, particularly in the fields of insurance, shipping, international trade, and commodities.
Hong Kong becomes DACB’s second office in the region, joining the existing office in Singapore, which has been operational since 2011. Situated in Quarry Bay on the eastern side of Hong Kong Island, DACB Hong Kong opens its doors with two partners at the helm: Wai Yue Loh and Ross Risby.
Loh, who serves as the joint managing director of incisive law – an independent Singapore law practice associated with DACB – brings extensive experience in advising Chinese clients, both within China and abroad. His expertise has been described to be valuable as Chinese business interests increasingly focus on the APAC region.
Risby has relocated to Hong Kong from DACB’s London office to join Loh in enhancing the firm’s service offerings in the region. A partner in DACB’s Insurance team with nearly two decades of experience, Risby specialises in disputes related to financial institutions, professional liability, and Directors & Officers (D&O) insurance.
Together, Loh and Risby are expected to strengthen DACB’s global shipping practice while collaborating with the firm’s Singapore office and its growing Latin American team, which includes a newly established office in Peru.
“It has been a long-time ambition of ours to expand into Hong Kong,” said Gustavo Blanco, DACB’s head of international business. “With a foothold in this important market, we are delivering on our ambition to be the international insurance law firm of choice for the global insurance industry.”
Blanco highlighted Loh’s reputation as a leading litigator in shipping, international trade, and commodities, noting that Loh has successfully represented international clients in various global arbitrations and shipping disputes.
In addition to its Hong Kong office, DACB is forming an association with a newly established local firm, CK Lee & Co. This partnership will enable DACB to offer clients comprehensive advice that includes both international and Hong Kong law.
Kelvin Lee, leading CK Lee & Co, specialises in coverage disputes involving property/business interruption risks and product liability insurance, while senior associate Will Chan will support the firm’s initiatives.
Loh remarked on the growing trade between China and Latin America, noting that much of this activity is facilitated through Hong Kong. “With our new central hub for global marine and shipping in Lima and a growing presence here in the Asia-Pacific region, we are even better positioned to serve the needs of our clients in this key location and across the globe,” he said.
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