Hong Kong Signs Landmark Agreement with WIPO

In a groundbreaking move, Hong Kong has officially signed a deal with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) to share crucial intellectual property (IP) rulings, placing the city at the forefront of the country’s vision to become a global IP powerhouse by 2035.

During the signing event, Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po hailed the agreement as a significant milestone in enhancing Hong Kong's engagement with the global IP community. He emphasized the importance of the collaboration, allowing the city to contribute to the WIPO Lex-Judgments database.

Access to Valuable IP Resources

Since its launch in 2020, the WIPO Lex-Judgments database has become an invaluable resource, providing open access to more than 2,200 judicial decisions on IP issues from over 40 jurisdictions. This resource serves judges, IP practitioners, and policymakers alike, enriching the global IP discourse with precedent-setting cases.

Strengthening Hong Kong's Unique Legal Framework

Operating under the 'one country, two systems' policy, Hong Kong stands as the only region in China practicing common law in both Chinese and English. Chan noted that, as a trusted venue for resolving IP disputes between local and international parties, Hong Kong's decisions often serve as key references for the global legal community.

A Hub for IP Trading and Legal Services

This partnership not only strengthens Hong Kong's role in international IP law but also consolidates its status as a regional hub for IP trading and legal services. Chan reiterated the city's commitment to facilitating deeper connections and collaboration with global partners in the realm of intellectual property.

Supporting China’s IP Ambitions

The finance chief highlighted that Hong Kong’s participation aligns perfectly with China's ambitious goal of becoming a global leader in IP protection by 2035, a vision laid out in a 2021 blueprint aimed at advancing technological self-reliance. This agreement marks a pivotal step towards achieving that vision, establishing Hong Kong as an essential player on the world stage.