The challenges of Hong Kong trained corporate lawyers in the 21st century

In August 2010, the Agricultural Bank of China raised the world's largest initial public offering (IPO), on the Shanghai and Hong Kong (HK) stock exchanges. It would seem that HK-trained corporate lawyers should enjoy the best job opportunities in the booming HK stock market, as well as the growing trend of mega-sized IPOs in HK. But in reality this is not the case. These lawyers are up against very tough competition from overseas. This article will attempt to uncover the reasons for this and suggest solutions. It is also hoped that this article may offer some insight to other jurisdictions, such as the United Kingdom, which is facing similar competition.