We would like to inform that the Intellectual Property Department of Hong Kong recently announced a significant leap into the future of IP registration: with effect from 28 June 2024, for trademark, patent and designs  applicants or their agents who are registered e-filers, the Hong Kong Trade Marks Registry will start issuing electronic certificates instead of paper certificates of registration.

What's Changing?

• For trademark applications published on or after 15 March 2024, the Trade Marks Registry will issue electronic certificates instead of paper certificates of registration.
• For patent applications published for grant on or after 28 June 2024; and
• For design applications published on or after 28 June 2024, Hong Kong Intellectual Property Department will issue electronic certificates instead of paper certificates of registration.

Why Go Digital?

• This move embraces sustainability, enhances efficiency, and provides a secure and streamlined way to receive official IP documents.

Prefer Paper?

If registered e-filers wish to receive traditional paper certificates, they are allowed to opt out of the above arrangement by sending a written request to the Hong Kong Trade Marks Registry within six weeks from the notice of publication of the trademark application in question.

For patent applications: within two weeks from the date of notice of publication for grant of the patent in question; and

For design applications: within two weeks from the date of notice of acceptance of the application in question.

During the transitional period, if registered e-filers wish to opt out of receiving electronic certificates for trademark applications published/scheduled for publication from the cut-off date of 15 March 2024 up to 31 May 2024, they should inform the Hong Kong Trade Marks Registry as soon as possible and in any case, no later than the expiry of the three-month opposition period.

Stay Informed

For our clients, rest assured that we are fully prepared to guide you through this transition. Our Hong Kong Team is here to ensure that your intellectual property rights remain secure and well-managed in this new digital era.

Should there be any enquiries on the above or any assistance being needed for trademark matters in Hong Kong, please always feel free to contact Lihan (Leecheeyang@changtsi.com ) and our Hong Kong Team ( HKteam@changtsi.com). Patent and design matters, please contact our patent team (ForeignPatent@changtsi.com).