The ASEAN-Hong Kong IP Roadshow, held from 8-10 October 2025 at the Regal Hong Kong Hotel in Hong Kong, SAR China, was organized by the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines. This event brought together representatives from ASEAN Member States (AMS) and Hong Kong, China (HKC) based businesses to foster new opportunities for trade and investment and to enhance economic and technical cooperation under the ASEAN-Hong Kong Free Trade Agreement (AHKFTA). The roadshow provided a valuable platform for ASEAN IP Offices to showcase their services to HKC-based businesses, aiming to promote increased intellectual property (IP) filings and facilitate cross-border collaboration in IP protection and management.
Promotion of AMS IP Services
The Roadshow kicked-off with introducing the array of IP services offered by AMS IP Offices to HKC firms through two main activities:
- I-Pitch:
AMS IP Offices took turns presenting their services to HKC-based business and IP firms, with each representative allotted 15 minutes to showcase their nation’s offerings, explain procedures for IP registration, and share ongoing projects related to IP awareness.
- I-Plunge:
Following the presentations, HKC firms engaged directly with AMS IP Offices at designated booths. This session enabled businesses and firms to consult with IP officers, raise specific questions, and address concerns related to intellectual property in each ASEAN country.
Key Takeaways from Consultations with AMS IP Officers
During the I-Plunge session, attendees had the opportunity to consult with IP officers from several ASEAN countries. Here are some valuable insights and practical tips for businesses considering IP registration or protection in these jurisdictions:
- ASEAN IP Portal: The ASEAN IP Portal marks a significant milestone in regional intellectual property integration, bringing together patents, designs, trademarks, and geographical indications (GI) from across ASEAN under a single, unified platform. Powered by data sourced directly from local Intellectual Property Offices (IPOs), the portal offers a seamless interface for businesses and IP representatives to view and manage their entire IP portfolio across member states. Businesses and legal professionals can now access a consolidated view of their IP portfolios, streamlining cross-border management and monitoring. This platform serves as a strategic resource for legal insights, procedural updates, and regional IP developments. While the portal is powered by data sourced from local Intellectual Property Offices (IPOs), users should be aware that data synchronization may vary. Depending on the update frequency and internal timelines of each IPO, delays in reflecting the most current information can occur. The ASEAN IP Portal can be accessed via the following links: ASEAN Portal; ASEAN IP Register.
- Malaysia: Businesses seeking to license a trade mark in Malaysia must ensure the mark is registered. The registration process can be expedited by submitting a letter to request an expedition alongside the application form, detailing the reasons for urgency. This option is particularly beneficial for businesses with immediate licensing needs.
- Laos: In addition to official searches conducted by the Trade Mark Office, applicants can independently search trade mark records using the official database at www.dip.gov.la. The database offers up-to-date trade mark details and can greatly assist service providers in conducting preliminary searches for clients.
- Thailand: Thailand’s Trade Mark Office offers a “Fast Track Renewal” process, allowing trade mark owners to renew registrations within one hour . For new trade mark filings, applicants can opt for fast-track examination with choices of either a 4-month or 6-month processing time. These expedited options are available if certain criteria are met. They provide businesses with greater flexibility and efficiency in managing their trade mark portfolios.
- Singapore: Singapore stands out for its online IP Business and Legal Clinic, where businesses and firms can consult directly with IP officers on IP strategies and dispute resolution. This accessible online platform presents a valuable opportunity for businesses and firms to seek expert advice and develop effective IP management strategies.
Conclusion
The ASEAN-Hong Kong IP Roadshow helps HKC based businesses and IP firms to better understand the IP services and procedures in different ASEAN countries. Attendees learned useful tips directly from IP officers. The event also showcased how AMS and HKC are working together to make IP registration and protection easier. Overall, the event gave attendees clearer options for managing and safeguarding intellectual property across the region.
Author: Mary Man, Karat (Lookpad) Gedkhuntod
