Following the line taken by US and UK firms who have been increasing their China practices recently, Italian firm NCTM has boosted its Asia team with the appointment of former Allen & Overy associate Hermes Pazzaglini.

While the firm currently has no presence in Asia, it is planning to use the appointment to expand to the China and East Asia markets, led by the firm’s co-managing partner and head of its China team, Vittorio Noseda.

Pazzaglini, who has previously held positions at Baker & McKenzie and Barlow Lyde & Gilbert, will work alongside Noseda to head the expansion. “Despite the uncertain economic climate there is a significant demand from our clients for support in China and other East Asian markets,” said senior partner Paolo Montironi.

“For NCTM, this represents the most natural move in our overall international expansion strategy. The target remains clearly within our sights: to consolidate a direct, global presence with highly-qualified local expertise, which allows us to assist our clients to the best of our abilities.”

See also:

• Kirkland & Ellis takes on China
• Baker Botts boosts Hong Kong arbitration practice
• India pressed by UK in liberalisation talks