Brazilian legal firm establishes China desk

Chinese Consulate General to Sao Paulo Chen Xi (right) said at the launching ceremony of Demarest law firm's China desk on July 22 in Sao Paulo that professional legal assistance for Chinese companies is important to maintain the healthy development of China-Brazil economic relations. Ambassador Fernando de Mello Barreto (left) and Mario Nogueira (center), Demarest's senior partner, also attended the ceremony. ZHANG FAN / CHINA DAILY

Demarest, a leading law firm in Sao Paulo, Brazil, has officially launched its China desk to handle the rapidly developing economic relations between China and Brazil.

The move on July 22 will help maintain "a healthy development" of the bilateral economic relations, said Chen Xi, the Chinese consulate general consular in Sao Paulo.

"China and Brazil are enjoying closer economic ties in recent years, with Chinese investment in Brazil witnessing a significant growth. However, for many Chinese companies entering this market, the complicated legal system, especially the tax laws, are among the most difficult obstacles," said Chen at the launching ceremony in Sao Paulo.

"I hope the China desk of Demarest can help these Chinese enterprises to solve related problems and avoid certain disputes, which can contribute to a more steady and healthy development of China-Brazil economic relations," he added.

Mario Nogueira, Demarest's senior partner, said that even though the Brazilian legal system is complicated, it can still provide necessary guarantees for Chinese companies if it is understood and its rules applied properly.

China is Brazil's largest trade partner worldwide. In 2013, trade reached $90 billion and direct investment from China to Brazil was $17.6 billion in fields ranging from automotive to infrastructure construction.

"With more and more Chinese companies entering Brazil, difficulties remain due to the different cultures and thinking patterns between the two countries. Many find it hard to communicate with local companies and government," said Zhang Jun, the director of Demarest's China desk.

"It will be my honor to provide professional solutions for Chinese companies and contribute to the China-Brazil economic relations," he added.

fanzhang@chinadailyusa.com