U.S. law firm Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan is in the process of applying for a license to practice in Singapore, which, if successful, would make it the commercial disputes-focused firm’s second office opening in Asia this year.

In March, Quinn Emanuel launched its Beijing office, citing increased cross-border disputes and government enforcement actions involving China.

A spokesperson for Quinn Emanuel confirmed that the firm is applying for a Foreign Law Practice (FLP) license in Singapore. The office, once licensed, will be headed by Hong Kong-based international arbitration partner Duncan Watson KC, who will relocate to Singapore.

The firm’s Asia managing partner, John Rhie, will also split his time between Singapore and Hong Kong. “On international work, we will focus on international arbitration and outbound disputes which clients may need assistance around the world like US litigation, investigations, multi-jurisdictional disputes,” Rhie said.

“Singapore is a dispute resolution hub and, in particular, for the Southeast Asia region, including India.  There is huge growth here in general.  Hong Kong has been and continues to be a very important hub for us in Asia, in particular the Far East region, and we hope Singapore will be equally successful,” Rhie added.

With two new Asian offices this year alone, Quinn Emanuel is fully committed to investment in the region, Rhie said.

“This is a very important region for the firm, and we will look to continue to increase our footprint,” he added.