Stay ahead with the latest Intellectual Property (IP) updates from across Asia. This month’s highlights include major developments in Japan–Asian IP cooperation, Korea–Vietnam IP relations, India’s Draft Patent (Amendment) Rules 2025, and Hong Kong’s copyright reforms.
Japan-Asian IP Strengthen Regional Cooperation
On August 19, 2025, the Japan Patent Office (JPO) and ASEAN IP Offices held the 15th Japan–ASEAN Heads of IP Offices Meeting in Ayutthaya, Thailand.
Key Agreements:
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Adoption of the FY2025–2026 Japan–ASEAN IP Rights Action Plan.
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ERIA (Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia) presented studies on branding strategies and patent examinations in pharmaceutical technologies.
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Memorandum of Cooperation signed to update the Japan–Thailand Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH) pilot program (valid until Dec 2025).
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Bilateral discussions with Laos, the Philippines, and Singapore to enhance IP collaboration.
SEO Keywords: Japan Patent Office, ASEAN IP cooperation, Patent Prosecution Highway Japan, ASEAN IP Rights Action Plan
Korea–Vietnam Intellectual Property Exchange Forum
The Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO) announced the Korea–Vietnam IP Exchange Forum, set for September 16–19, 2025, in Seoul, South Korea.
Program Highlights:
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Policy Dialogue: September 17, Government Complex, Daejeon.
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On-Site Company Visits: September 17–18.
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IP Protection Seminar: September 18, Best Western Premier Gangnam.
Vietnamese IP officials will share updates on Vietnam’s IP laws and provide guidance to Korean businesses entering the Vietnamese market.
KIPO Statement: “Local collaboration is vital to protect Korean companies’ intellectual property abroad.”
Companies can register via www.koipa.re.kr.
SEO Keywords: Korea Vietnam IP cooperation, KIPO, Vietnam intellectual property system, IP protection for Korean businesses
India Publishes Draft Patent (Amendment) Rules 2025
On July 18, 2025, India’s Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) released the Draft Patent (Amendment) Rules, 2025, inviting feedback from innovators and industry stakeholders.
Proposed Reforms:
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Faster patent examination timelines to reduce delays.
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Simplified filing and electronic communication for a tech-driven patent system.
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Updated fee structures aligned with global best practices.
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Enhanced transparency and compliance monitoring for applicants.
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Support for startups and MSMEs with easier access to IP protection.
Expert Insight: These changes will modernize India’s patent framework, making patent protection faster, simpler, and more business-friendly.
SEO Keywords: India patent rules 2025, DPIIT patent reforms, Draft Patent Amendment Rules India, patent filing India
Hong Kong Introduces New Copyright Regulations
The Hong Kong Government has gazetted two new regulations under the Copyright Ordinance (Cap. 528) on July 11, 2025:
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Copyright (Libraries, Museums and Archives – Prescribed Conditions for Making Copy) Regulation
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Copyright (Specified Libraries, Museums and Archives) Notice
These updates aim to modernize copyright law for libraries, museums, and archives, ensuring responsible access to knowledge and cultural preservation.
Impact Highlights:
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Supports education and research through improved access to copyrighted works.
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Provides clear legal frameworks for institutions.
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Effective January 1, 2026, after Legislative Council approval.
SEO Keywords: Hong Kong copyright law 2025, Cap 528 copyright regulations, copyright for libraries museums archives, copyright reform Hong Kong
Key Takeaways for Businesses and Innovators
Asia is undergoing significant IP law updates and cross-border cooperation initiatives. From Japan’s regional IP partnerships to India’s patent reforms, Korea–Vietnam collaborations, and Hong Kong’s copyright modernization, staying informed is crucial for innovators and global businesses.
Looking to protect your intellectual property worldwide?
Contact us today for guidance on:
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Global IP portfolio management
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Trademark and patent registration
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IP enforcement strategies
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