Clifford Chance (CC) is set to open its first office in Africa, with the Magic Circle firm in the early stages of planning a launch on the ground in Morocco.

The office, for which the firm has yet to seek regulatory approval, is expected to focus on infrastructure and the energy and mining sector, as well as targeting other major international corporates doing business in the region. It is understood the firm plans to relocate at least one Paris partner to the new office.