Conyers first offshore firm into Moscow

Conyers Dill & Pearman will push expansion plans in 2008 by becoming the first offshore firm to open a Moscow office.

Conyers said the move would give it access to clients in Russia and Eastern Europe.

Chairman John Collis told The Lawyer: "Moscow's financial services sector has reacted quickly to accommodate the demands of Russian industry and over the past few years we've seen significant growth in quality corporate and finance work.

"The growth in international trade has spawned potential clients around the world seeking offshore services. Many markets that were once described as 'emerging' have now clearly emerged, and their corporations are seeking to do business globally."

The Moscow office will focus on commercial and international work for Russian businesses, as well as investment by Western businesses.

The firm will be based in Ducat III, the new business centre in Moscow. The office is due to open in March. The team is yet to be named, but Conyers said appointments would be organic.

It is the firm's ninth international office, making it one of the largest players in the offshore market.