HK to enhance position as regional IP trading centre

HK to enhance position as regional IP trading centre

Hong Kong to Enhance Position as Regional IP Trading Centre

Hong Kong continues to advance its strategic vision to become a premier regional intellectual property (IP) trading hub, with a series of policy initiatives unveiled in the 2025 Policy Address by the Hong Kong SAR Chief Executive. These measures aim to strengthen IP protection, financing, and commercialization while aligning with global innovation trends.

A key focus is bolstering IP financing through the launch of an IP financing sandbox, a collaboration between the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau (CEDB), Intellectual Property Department (IPD), and Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA). Targeting technology sectors, the sandbox will enable businesses to leverage IP assets for funding by integrating expertise from banking, insurance, valuation, and legal professionals according to the 2025 policy blueprint. This initiative is part of broader efforts to create a supportive ecosystem for IP-backed financial solutions.

To lower barriers for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the government has introduced patent valuation services via the Hong Kong Technology and Innovation Support Centre, operational by late 2025. A two-year pilot program will subsidize patent valuations, providing SMEs with credible benchmarks for credit financing as outlined in the policy framework. These steps aim to unlock the value of IP assets and facilitate access to capital for innovation-driven firms.

Legal and regulatory frameworks are also being modernized. The government is reviewing the Copyright Ordinance to address challenges posed by emerging technologies like AI, with a code of practice and legislative proposals expected following public consultation as detailed in the policy analysis. Additionally, a review of the registered designs regime is underway, reflecting Hong Kong's commitment to aligning with international best practices.

Internationally, Hong Kong is promoting its IP ecosystem through events like the Business of IP Asia Forum 2025, co-hosted with the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC). The IPD will also nominate local enterprises for the China Patent Award, enhancing regional recognition according to the policy initiative.

In its 2026 budget, the government announced the establishment of an Intellectual Property Academy, funded with tens of millions of Hong Kong dollars, to train professionals for the expanding IP sector as reported by SCMP. This aligns with broader goals to diversify Hong Kong's economy and support high-quality job creation.

Global IP receipts have surged from $82.2 billion in 2000 to $539.3 billion in 2024, underscoring the growing economic value of IP according to HKU research. Hong Kong's IP industry already contributes 30% to its GDP, with the government aiming to further capitalize on this trend through targeted policies.

By integrating robust legal frameworks, innovative financing tools, and international collaboration, Hong Kong is positioning itself as a critical node in Asia's IP-driven innovation landscape. These efforts are expected to enhance the city's competitiveness while supporting the commercialization of regional IP assets.