Offshore law firm Walkers is to open a Singapore office which will provide legal and corporate services focused on the Cayman Islands and British Virgin Islands.

The new office, which opens in February, will serve not only Singapore but also countries within the Association of South East Asian Nations, such as Malaysia, Vietnam and Indonesia.

Partners Ashley Gunning and John Rogers will lead Walkers’ Singapore arm, heading the finance and legal sides of the business respectively. 

News of Walkers’ Singaporean launch follows the group’s recent expansion in Hong Kong; ten hires were made in 2008, including that of partner Everton Robertson from offshore rival Maples & Calder, necessitating the firm’s relocation to larger premises in September.

“Singapore’s position as a key South East Asian hub for many international law firms and financial institutions will provide an excellent platform for growth in Singapore, India, and all of the members of the ASEAN,” Mr Rogers said. “With the new office, Walkers is affirming its long-term commitment to the region.”

In addition to Singapore and Hong Kong, Walkers has offices in London, Jersey, the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands and Dubai.