Forrester Research, a US-based technology research firm, is shutting down its mainland China office, amid increasing government scrutiny on international consultancies. The company has started laying off most of its China-based analysts, retaining a few to complete ongoing projects. This move is part of a broader global restructuring plan, which Forrester states is driven by the unsteady economy and its ongoing product transformation. The firm has vowed to continue servicing their China-based and global clients through its international research team. In recent months, China has been investigating international advisory firms operating within the country. This growing scrutiny, coupled with changes in the anti-espionage law, has created concern among foreign businesses about their operations being potentially viewed as illegal.