King & Spalding has opened a new office in Japan to anchor its Asia-Pacific energy practice alongside its office in Singapore. 

The Tokyo office will be fronted by former Ashurst partners John McClenahan, Mark Davies and Chris Bailey. Also next month, partner Rupert Lewi will relocate from Ashurst’s office in Australia to join the founding partners.

Robert Hays, King & Spalding’s chairman, said: "The Tokyo office capitalises on the momentum the firm has already achieved in the energy, projects, finance, construction and international arbitration arena. Our clients will benefit from our increased expertise and expanded presence in Asia."

The Tokyo team will act for Japanese and Korean entities in the energy and resources sector, including export credit agencies and financial institutions. The team has particular experience in dispute resolution, especially in energy and resources, infrastructure, transport, trade, and intellectual property.