International law firm Simmons & Simmons has continued its expansion in China with the appointment of an employment partner and a corporate partner.

Kirkland & Ellis represented Tudou Holdings Limited (NASDAQ: TUDO) in a deal announced yesterday that combines the top two players in China’s burgeoning online video market. Tudou and Youku Inc. (NYSE: YOKU) signed a definitive agreement to combine in a 100 percent stock-for-stock transaction, expected to be completed by the third quarter of 2012, pending customary closing conditions and shareholder approvals. Upon completion, Youku and Tudou shareholders will own approximately 71.5 percent and 28.5 percent of the combined company, respectively. The combined company will be named Youku Tudou Inc., and Youku’s American depositary shares (ADSs) will continue to be listed on the NYSE under the symbol “YOKU”.

International legal practice Norton Rose Hong Kong has advised China Daye Non-Ferrous Metals Mining Limited, a company listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, on the acquisition of four copper mines in China from an entity ultimately controlled by the Hubei Provincial Government for a total consideration of around US$900 million, which was satisfied by the issue of new shares and convertible notes.