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Hong Kong has a robust legislative framework for the protection of all forms of IP.

Hong Kong has a well-established legal system based on the rule of law which offers strong legal protection for, amongst others, IP. Local laws fully comply with the World Trade Organization’s Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights.

The Intellectual Property Department of the Government of the Hong Kong SAR serves as the focal point for IP policy, law and registration and public education on IP protection. It advises the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau on policies and legislation to strengthen IP protection, and also provides civil legal advice to other government departments on IP matters. It operates the registries of and exercises the quasi-judicial functions on trade marks, patents and designs. It registers copyright licensing bodies. It also takes part in the development and implementation of policies to promote international IP trading.

The Customs and Excise Department of the Government of the Hong Kong SAR is responsible for enforcing the criminal aspects of infringement of IP rights. It investigates complaints alleging infringement of trade marks and copyright and complaints alleging false trade descriptions. The department has extensive powers of search and seizure, and cooperates with overseas enforcement authorities and owners of trade marks and copyright in a concerted effort to combat infringement of IP rights.

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