Hong Kong to modernize copyright laws, launch IP financing sandbox to boost innovation
10 December 2025
Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development Algernon Yau announced on the 15th Business of IP Asia Forum at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre that the government will “modernize” its copyright-related rules as part of a broader strategy to tap into the rapidly growing global intellectual property economy.
Yau said that global IP financing has been expanding at a remarkable pace, with market revenue estimated at US$8.5 billion in 2024 and projected to nearly double to US$15.2 billion by 2033, representing an annual growth rate of about 7.2 percent. These figures, he said, indicate “strong demand expansion.”
To seize this opportunity, Hong Kong will roll out a pilot IP financing sandbox, first announced by Chief Executive John Lee in his policy address. The initiative aims to help companies secure funding to support innovation and commercialization of their products. Additionally, a two-year pilot scheme will provide funding to help small- and medium-sized enterprises enhance the value of their intellectual property.
Yau outlined several regulatory updates to strengthen Hong Kong’s IP ecosystem:
- Modernization of the Copyright Ordinance and registered design regime to ensure the legal framework is fit for the digital age.
- Expansion of the patent examiner team and preparatory work for introducing regulatory arrangements for local patent agent services, aimed at building a pool of patent professionals.
- A business-matching programme to connect mainland enterprises with Hong Kong’s IP service providers, supporting Hong Kong’s “bringing in and going global” strategy.
On the mainland, Li Shengjun, deputy head of the patent office at the China National Intellectual Property Administration, said the pilot initiative that gives Hong Kong IP applications priority in mainland examinations “will be regularized.” Since its introduction in early 2023, roughly 200 applicants have taken advantage of the fast-track process, which Li described as delivering “good results” by significantly shortening the patent rights cycle.
Li also revealed that Beijing has issued revised patent examination guidelines to improve standards in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence. These guidelines will take effect next month. As of the end of October, China had 5.28 million patents for inventions and 50.22 million valid trademark registrations, underscoring its growing IP strength.
The forum’s discussions and new initiatives signal Hong Kong’s determination to position itself as a leading IP trading and financing hub in Asia, leveraging its legal infrastructure and connectivity with China.
- Cathy Li
