Top 10 accounting firm Forvis Mazars has launched two new international desks to enhance services for U.S. multinational enterprises with business interests in China and Japan.
The Chinese Desk and Japanese Desk provide a dedicated point of contact to enhance coordination between the firm’s U.S. teams and those team members located in these countries.
International desks are made up of audit, tax, and advisory professionals who offer an international perspective and tailored local solutions, Forvis Mazars says. Ensuring compliance with local laws and regulations, the firm provides strategic and operational advice to help MNEs expand worldwide.
The new Chinese and Japanese Desks follow earlier launches of the accounting firm’s German and French Desks, which also emphasize culturally aware support and coordinated cross-border service for multinational clients.
International desk leaders in the U.S. understand the issues MNEs face as they enter, expand, and operate across borders. The desks are designed to help clients understand the services available to them as they pursue growth, Forvis Mazars says.
“As we continue to expand the Forvis Mazars Global network and brand, we are doubling down on our commitment to provide an unmatched client experience to multinational companies,” Michael Coletti, partner and global business leader for Forvis Mazars US, said in a statement on May 13. “International desks provide our clients efficient and effective access to professionals who are fluent in the language, cultural norms, and local laws and regulations that clients face as they do business internationally.”
Chinese Desk
The firm’s Chinese Desk is led by Howard Hong, an assurance partner with two decades of experience. A native of China, Hong is fluent in both Mandarin and Cantonese and has served as a past member of the governing board at Forvis Mazars US.
“This role is extremely important to me both personally and professionally,” Hong said in a statement. “I was born and raised in China, and it’s exciting to have this opportunity to help clients that operate in both countries. I’m eager to help them grow their business, open doors, and build cross-border relationships.”
Hong is joined by Allen Wong, who has 20 years of experience and is also a native of China, fluent in both Mandarin and Cantonese. Wong will advance to partner effective June 1.
Japanese Desk
The firm’s Japanese Desk is led by Kaz Hatanaka, an assurance director with more than 15 years of experience. Hatanaka joined Forvis Mazars in 2025 following 13 years at a large international firm where he held a similar role, facilitating international collaboration.
Hatanaka is a native of Japan and is fluent in both Japanese and English.
“I’m excited to build strong business relationships with colleagues in Japan and to support clients from a cultural and language perspective to facilitate their business growth,” he said in a statement. “I am currently working with U.S. subsidiaries of Japanese companies and am expanding my work with U.S. companies operating in Japan. These are excellent opportunities to deepen relationships and collaborate closely across borders.”
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