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  • | 14 April 2025

Your Gateway to China: Legal Expertise Through PDLegal’s China Desk

One of the most exciting developments we’re seeing is the growing trade and investment between China and ASEAN countries—it’s creating real opportunities for businesses on both sides.

But navigating different legal systems, languages, and cultural expectations can feel overwhelming. That’s where PDLegal’s China Desk comes in.

Whether you’re a company eyeing growth in China or a Chinese business exploring new markets in Southeast Asia, our team is here to make the process smoother, clearer, and more manageable—every step of the way.

What Is the China Desk?

At its core, the China Desk is a dedicated team of professionals who understand the ins and outs of doing business with China. Our team includes China-qualified lawyers and legal advisors fluent in both Mandarin and English, giving you a seamless experience in everything from legal documents to negotiations.

Think of it as your trusted legal partner—helping you navigate cross-border transactions, stay compliant with regulations, and move your business forward with confidence.

Why You Might Need the China Desk

When entering or operating in a foreign market, challenges can arise quickly. Different laws, unfamiliar procedures, language gaps, and cultural differences can slow you down—or worse, lead to costly missteps.

Our China Desk is here to help you avoid those pitfalls. We assist clients with:

  • Structuring and reviewing cross-border transactions
  • Drafting bilingual contracts and legal documents
  • Navigating business regulations across ASEAN and China
  • Handling dispute resolution involving Chinese or ASEAN parties
  • Understanding business practices unique to the Chinese market

Who We Help

Our clients come from all walks of business life—from multinational corporations to start-ups, and from Chinese investors to ASEAN-based companies looking to scale.

Whether you’re setting up a new venture, entering a joint partnership, or expanding into unfamiliar territory, the China Desk at PDLegal offers the legal clarity and cultural understanding you need to thrive.

We regularly support:

  • Companies from Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia expanding into China
  • Chinese companies investing throughout ASEAN
  • Professional intermediaries looking for legal documentation support
  • Private clients and high-net-worth individuals needing China-related legal advice

How the China Desk Works

At PDLegal, we understand that no two clients are the same. That’s why our China Desk takes the time to get to know your goals and challenges. We then tailor our legal support to match your business strategy—whether that means drafting contracts in both Mandarin and English, advising on the best way to structure a deal, or supporting your team through a dispute.

Our strength lies in combining regional knowledge with legal precision, so you can focus on growing your business without second-guessing the legal side of things.

Built for the Realities of Cross-Border Business

The China Desk isn’t just about legal knowledge—it’s about helping people and businesses succeed in real-world, international environments. We understand the cultural nuances that shape business decisions, and we work hard to ensure that nothing gets lost in translation—literally or figuratively.

We’re here to make cross-border business simpler, safer, and smarter.

Let’s Get Started

If you’re exploring opportunities between China and ASEAN or need clear legal support to take your business to the next level, our China Desk is here to help.

Reach out to Gerard Quek, Head of the China Desk, to learn more about how PDLegal can support your business journey.

Contact PDLegal today for comprehensive legal support in Singapore’s dynamic maritime sector



 

FAQs

What is China desk?

A China Desk is a specialized team or department within a firm or organization, typically made up of professionals with expertise in Chinese laws, language, culture, and business practices. This team provides tailored legal and business services for clients involved in cross-border transactions between China and other regions.

Is Singapore governed by China?

No, Singapore is an independent sovereign nation and is not governed by China. While Singapore has strong economic ties with China, it operates under its own government and laws.

How many China companies are there in Singapore?

Singapore hosts a significant number of Chinese companies due to its strategic location, stable economy, and business-friendly environment. While the exact number fluctuates, Singapore is home to thousands of Chinese-invested businesses across various sectors.

Is China Singapore’s largest trading partner?

Yes, China is one of Singapore’s largest trading partners, with trade between the two countries covering a wide range of sectors including electronics, machinery, and consumer goods. Singapore serves as a key gateway for Chinese businesses into Southeast Asia.

What is the foreign exchange desk?

A foreign exchange desk is a department within financial institutions, such as banks or investment firms, that handles the buying and selling of foreign currencies. The desk manages currency trading and foreign exchange risks for clients and the institution.

What is the meaning of country desk?

A country desk refers to a specialized division or team within a business or organization that focuses on operations, legal matters, and business opportunities in a particular country. These desks are staffed with experts who understand the specific market, legal frameworks, and cultural nuances of that country.

What is an international desk?

An international desk is a division or service team within a company that focuses on supporting clients with business, legal, or operational needs across international borders. This desk typically provides specialized knowledge and guidance on global markets, regulations, and cross-border transactions.

What is the meaning of global service desk?

A global service desk is a centralized support function that helps users around the world. It typically manages IT, customer service, or technical support for multinational companies and addresses issues regardless of geographical location.

This article is intended to provide general information only and does not constitute legal advice. It should not be used as a substitute for professional legal consultation. We recommend seeking legal advice before making any decisions based on the information in this article. PDLegal fully disclaims any responsibility for any loss or damage that may result from reliance on this article.

43. Arbitration Bill and CIPAA Bill 2024
  • Legal Update
  • | 8 November 2025

The Arbitration (Amendment) Bill 2024 And CIPAA (Amendment) Bill 2024: Reshaping Malaysia's ADR Landscape

As we move towards the day that the Arbitration (Amendment) Act 2024 (“Arbitration Bill”) and the Construction Industry Payment and (...)

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#08-02 The Adelphi 

Singapore 179803

Tel: +65 6220 0325
Email: enquiry@pdlegal.com.sg

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PDLegal Asia (Thailand) Co., Ltd.
6th Floor, 6 O-NES Tower,
Sukhumvit Soi 6,
Khlong Toey, Bangkok 10110

Tel: +66 2 254 6415
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Tan, Siew & Lee (TSL Legal)
Unit V8, Q Sentral, Level 35-02 (East Wing),
2A, Jalan Stesen Sentral 2, KL Sentral,
50470 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan
Kuala Lumpur

Tel : +603 2731 9270
Email : enquiry@tsl-legal.com

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PO box 951 Bondi Junction
1355 Australia

Tel : +0278137619/ +61278137619
Email : enquiry@pdlegal.au

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  • About
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