At least six City firms have applied for new liberalised licences to practise local law in Singapore, including Ashurst, DLA Piper, Herbert Smith and Norton Rose.

Around five licences are expected be awarded under the system, which goes beyond the current local joint venture (JV) model which allows foreign firms to practise local law in restrictive alliances with local firms. Around 20 firms are thought to have applied for the licences.

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