Bryan Cave has strengthened its global network, launching an alliance with Chinese firm Alpha & Leader.

The exclusive affiliation means Bryan Cave will be Alpha & Leader’s preferred counsel for US matters for its offices in Beijing, Hong Kong and Shanghai, with Bryan Cave instructing Alpha & Leader on local law issues.

Bryan Cave, which has had an office in Hong Kong since 1994, aims to use the alliance to deepen its expertise in finance and international trade matters in China. Alpha & Leader, which is headquartered in Guangzhou, has 100 fee-earners across its three offices and advises domestic and US banks.

The firm specialises in risk and asset management and arbitration.