Rajah & Tann Appoints International Arbitration Partner Hew Kian Heong in China

Rajah & Tann Appoints International Arbitration Partner Hew Kian Heong in China

Rajah & Tann, a leading Singapore law firm, has strengthened its China arbitration practice by hiring veteran lawyer Hew Kian Heong as a partner. This move comes as the PRC and Singapore have recently upgraded their trade agreement.

Heong boasts extensive experience in construction and infrastructure disputes, having previously led the practice at Kewei, a joint China operation with Herbert Smith Freehills. His diverse portfolio includes advising and representing Chinese and international corporations in arbitrations, litigations, and mediations across various jurisdictions, from China and Singapore to Kuala Lumpur, Stockholm, Geneva, and London, and on projects spanning continents.

In addition to dispute resolution, he proactively guides client project teams on implementation challenges, conflict resolution, and risk mitigation strategies, aiming to prevent costly litigation and arbitration.

The hiring of Heong aligns with Rajah & Tann's long-term strategy to deepen its reach in China, particularly following the recent signing of the upgraded China-Singapore Free Trade Agreement.

The latest amendments to the China-Singapore Free Trade Agreement, as outlined by Rajah & Tann in a statement, offer Singaporean service providers increased access to Chinese markets and fairer, more transparent investment and trade regulations.

“China will be an increasingly important market for Rajah & Tann and we have plans to deepen and broaden our presence there,” Patrick Ang, managing partner at Rajah & Tann, stated.