AXA China Region seeks buys in SAR and Taiwan

Locally listed insurer AXA China Region is looking for expansion opportunities in Hong Kong and Taiwan, according to a company executive.

Mark Pearson, the insurer's chief executive in Hong Kong, said yesterday the company was interested in acquiring life and general insurance companies.

However, Mr Pearson said AXA China Region had yet to enter into any talks.

'Our possible acquisitions plan is in line with our ultimate parent - AXA Group's expansion plan - in the region,' Mr Pearson said.

French-based AXA Group, the world's largest insurer, managed assets valued at US$717 billion at the end of last year.

It holds 51 per cent of Australian-based National Mutual Holding, which holds 74 per cent of AXA China Region.