What are the most significant cases, projects or transactions that you and your legal team have recently been involved in?

One of the most notable projects our legal team has recently worked on is the development of an AI tool integrated into HP laptops for the China market. Initially designed to help customers diagnose technical issues and provide solutions, the tool has since expanded to include content generation, user Q&A, and image editing features.

Throughout its development, our legal team closely supported the technical team to ensure full compliance with the complex regulatory landscape in China. We provided strategic legal advice on data privacy, cybersecurity, and AI-specific requirements, and guided the team through essential processes such as Large Language Model (LLM) filing and online release filing with the PRC authorities.

China’s unique regulations make it challenging for foreign-branded AI tools to be deployed on PCs for local consumers. However, providing AI-enabled PCs is critical for any PC manufacturer wishing to remain competitive and maintain market share in China. By ensuring this tool met all legal and regulatory standards, our legal team enabled HP to successfully launch a compliant AI solution tailored for the Chinese market, thereby supporting the company’s business objectives and strategic positioning.

How do you approach managing legal aspects during periods of instability or crisis to ensure the organisation’s resilience?

During periods of instability or crisis, our approach to managing legal aspects is grounded in proactive monitoring, thorough impact evaluation, and clear communication to ensure the organisation’s resilience. First and foremost, we closely monitor evolving regulations, policy developments, and market conditions that may affect our business operations. This vigilance enables us to anticipate potential legal risks and quickly assess how new rules, or governmental directives might impact the company’s activities in real time.

We conduct comprehensive evaluations to determine the direct and indirect effects of regulatory changes on our ongoing projects, contractual obligations, and compliance frameworks. By analyzing the potential implications early, we can identify vulnerabilities and develop action plans to mitigate risks. This process includes scenario planning and stress-testing current policies to ensure the organisation remains agile and compliant under rapidly changing circumstances.

Effective communication is critical during times of uncertainty. We prioritise regular, transparent dialogue with key stakeholders—including executive leadership, business units, and external partners—to ensure everyone understands the potential impact of new developments and is aligned on the steps being taken. This collaborative approach not only fosters trust but also ensures that all parties are equipped to implement necessary adjustments swiftly and effectively.

Finally, we are committed to timely adaptation. As new information emerges or the situation evolves, we promptly update our legal strategies and operational protocols. This may involve revising internal guidelines, renegotiating contracts, or seeking additional regulatory guidance to maintain compliance and minimise disruption. By remaining flexible and responsive, our legal team helps the organisation navigate uncertainty, safeguard its interests, and emerge stronger from periods of crisis.

Given the current geopolitical shifts and growing uncertainties around international free trade, has your company’s risk profile evolved, and are you taking measures to address these challenges?

The US-China trade war has notably increased our company’s risk in the supply chain and high-tech sectors. Tariffs, export controls, and shifting regulations have required us to quickly pivot, diversify suppliers, and adapt our sourcing strategies. Our legal and compliance teams ensure all supply routes meet diverse regulatory requirements in each market. This includes navigating export restrictions, data localisation, and technology transfer laws. By proactively monitoring developments, engaging local counsel, and updating protocols, we bolster supply chain resilience and maintain operational continuity across all jurisdictions.

Based on your experiences in the past year, are there any trends in the legal or business world that you are keeping an eye on that you think other in-house lawyers should be mindful of?

One of the most significant trends we have observed is the increasing complexity and unpredictability of the global regulatory environment, particularly driven by shifting geopolitical dynamics. Close monitoring of these trends is essential for in-house lawyers, as changes in international relations, trade policies, and cross-border regulations can have immediate and far-reaching impacts on business operations.

Additionally, the rapid advancement and adoption of artificial intelligence are transforming the working model of many organisations. AI not only introduces new regulatory challenges—such as compliance with data protection and cybersecurity laws—but also necessitates a re-evaluation of risk management strategies and internal governance structures. Proactively tracking regulatory policy developments and understanding their implications is crucial for mitigating risks and ensuring compliance in this fast-evolving landscape.