King & Wood Mallesons (China) and Eversheds Sutherland (International) have announced the launch of a formal co-operation agreement.

Under the terms of the agreement, KWM (China) will refer all future matters requiring legal advice in Britain, Europe, Middle East, Africa, and South America to Eversheds Sutherland (International).

Clients of Eversheds Sutherland (International) who need People's Republic of China legal advice will be referred to KWM (China).

Referrals will be made on an exclusive basis by both firms, subject to client preference and conflict clearance.

The firms say that the co-operation agreement is driven by the increasingly diverse and complex legal needs of KWM China’s clients in Britain, Europe, and the Middle East, and Eversheds Sutherland (International)’s clients requiring PRC legal advice in China. 

As a result, KWM (China) will, subject to regulatory requirements, cease to operate in Britain, Europe, and the Middle East by 31 October 2024. 

It is expected that the partners and staff of KWM (China) in those jurisdictions will be invited to join the respective offices of Eversheds Sutherland (International), subject to practice needs and other considerations.

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Wang Junfeng (KWM global chair) said that Eversheds Sutherland (International) was an ideal fit, with its extensive worldwide network.

Lee Ranson (chief executive Eversheds Sutherland international) said that the move would create opportunities to generate significant new work across the globe.

Alan Connell (managing partner Eversheds Sutherland, Ireland LLP) commented: "This is a very positive development and gives our internationally-focused client base access to enhanced top-level and deep legal and tax resources across Asia, alongside our existing offices in Hong Kong and China."