IP consultancy Rouse has announced the opening of a new office in Cambodia. Located in the capital Phnom Penh, Rouse Cambodia will be led by current Hong Kong and Vietnam country manager, Chris Vale supported by Sokunvannary (“Vannary”) Tep, a Cambodian trade mark attorney and qualified US lawyer who specialises in all forms of IP. Ms Vannary has spent the last 15 months in Rouse's Vietnam offices. A team of five will be based on the ground in Phnom Penh with expectations of more recruits coming on board.

Strategic portfolio management 

In 1993, Rouse became the first international IP specialist to establish a base in China. The firm has since expanded to cover the wider ASEAN region, with offices in Vietnam, Myanmar, Thailand, Philippines, Indonesia, and Hong Kong. Rouse has been conducting IP work in Cambodia from these established ASEAN offices for a number of years with particular focus on Vietnam.  The new office in Phnom Penh will offer the full suite of strategic portfolio management, disputes and enforcement services to large US and European law firms operating in the region, as well as new clients with a presence in the country.  

Complex jurisdiction

Luke Minford, chief executive of Rouse, said: 'The ASEAN region represents a huge growth opportunity for us and our clients. Cambodia is one of the fastest growing economies in Asia and we know the demand for our services in the country is high – both from our existing client base, and from new and prospective clients. These are also complex and challenging jurisdictions, which is why we focus on ensuring our clients get the right mix of local and international expertise.'