Vinson & Elkins (V&E) is mulling plans to re-open its Singapore office, signaling its commitment to Asia Pacific despite having closed its Shanghai base in 2013 and Singapore in 2004.

The US energy firm, which currently has three offices in Hong Kong, Beijing and Tokyo, is in the process of applying to the Singapore Ministry of Law for a Foreign Practice Licence, but is yet to hold a partner vote on the launch.