Hong Kong: The Business of IP Asia Forum, bringing intellectual property professionals and government officials together to discuss the latest developments in Asia’s IP market, will take place 2 December, at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC).

Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and the Hong Kong Design Centre, with the support from the Intellectual Property Department of HKSAR Government, the event will also help companies explore new IP business opportunities.

“Growing globalisation of IP trading activities and increasing IP supply and demand in Asia have induced a greater need for regional IP intermediaries,” said HKTDC Assistant Executive Director Raymond Yip, adding that Hong Kong offers the best opportunities for IP trading in the region. “Hong Kong’s multiple roles as an IP middleman, regional IP manager and services hub will continue to evolve and expand,” he said.

New Economic Driver

Intellectual property is becoming a new driver for global economic development. The upgrading of the Chinese mainland’s industrial sector has led to significant demand for overseas IP. This development is set to continue given China’s 12th Five-Year Programme, with its emphasis on technology. Overseas companies from mature markets such as the United States and Japan are also expanding their businesses through the buying and selling of IP.

The IP Advantage

Mr Yip said SMEs would do well to embrace IP opportunities. “To enhance competitiveness in the long run, SMEs have to transform themselves through product or service differentiation by making use of available IP in the market, as well as identifying suitable brand-building strategies,” he said.

“BIP Asia will help participants explore new business opportunities through discussion sessions, networking and business-matching services,” he added. “It will encourage companies to ride on Hong Kong’s comparative advantages in R&D, the creative industries, trading and business-related services, and explore further Asia’s vast IP opportunities via Hong Kong.”

Forum highlights include a plenary session on technology and the latest trends in IP trading, as well as IP trading on the mainland. Panel discussions spotlight IP portfolio management, the growth of the IP business in Asia, and the role of design in intellectual property protection. Thematic workshops will cover IP protection, valuation, training and education, and arbitration.