The Japanese practices have begun to try to catch up with western law firms in opening offices outside their own jurisdiction. But, like all other firms, they are finding the restrictions on their activity in India and other states hampering expansion plans.  A consultative committee was set up between the Justice Ministry, the Japan Chamber of Commerce and the Japan Federation of Bar Associations to work out how the firms can be helped. Eriko Hayashi, head of the Shanghai office of Oh-Ebashi LPC & Partners, told the Japan Times: 'To assist Japanese companies operating abroad, it would be useful if the government calls for lowering of barriers.'  The Cabinet Office in Japan recently published a report urging lawyers to improve their language and other skills in order to help their clients expand abroad.

Myanmar moves

Japan's largest firm, Nishimura & Asahi LPC, has just opened an office in Yangon in Myanmar. Many other Japanese firms are looking to follow suit if Myanmar continues to liberalise.