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Letters

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With the establishment in June of the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, formerly known as Create Hong Kong, stakeholders in the creative sector are eager for new policies to be implemented.
Earlier this year, Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po announced that the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (TDC) is enhancing the Asia IP Exchange online platform to include content related to creative property rights, thereby promoting the trading of these rights and strengthening the cultural and creative industries.
In his policy address this year, Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu also emphasised the importance of the intellectual property trade.
The Asia IP Exchange platform, which the TDC has been running for over a decade, has primarily focused on technology copyrights, with limited representation of creative property rights. As a stakeholder, I have high expectations for the government and the TDC to improve this platform.
The unique nature of copyright in the cultural sector complicates matters, as the creator of a work, such as an illustrator or cartoonist, may not own the copyright. Additionally, copyright agreements often involve restrictions related to regions, languages and statutes of limitations, making ownership and licensing particularly complex.
As per the nation’s 14th five-year plan, the Hong Kong government has prioritised developing Hong Kong as a centre for international cultural exchange and intellectual property trading. The TDC is well-positioned to enhance this platform, given its strong regional connections, which can facilitate trade. While Hong Kong’s creative industries are recognised for their potential, the local market remains small and underutilised. Improving this platform represents an opportunity to promote and integrate creative offerings efficiently.
A user-friendly platform can significantly enhance trade efficiency. Given the complexities of creative copyrights, licensees prioritise verifying the legitimacy of copyright owners introduced by the platform. Hong Kong’s Intellectual Property Department can provide the necessary legal support. Moreover, utilising blockchain technology and smart contracts could help ensure copyright validity, reducing disputes.
Most cultural and creative companies in Hong Kong are small and medium-sized enterprises or individual creators who may lack the expertise for complex legal documentation. A streamlined platform for easily uploading and introducing creative rights would benefit many creators. Additionally, a platform that clearly communicates the acceptable licensing fees for different creative properties could enhance efficiency.
By fostering collaboration among the government, businesses and the creative community, we can unlock the full potential of Hong Kong’s cultural and creative industries.
Karson Mak, vice-chairman, HKIPCDA (Hong Kong IP Collaboration and Development Association)
Welcome shift from business interests to social needs
The chief executive’s policy address this year reflects a commendable commitment by the Hong Kong government to prioritise healthcare and the well-being of Hongkongers. With a clear focus on enhancing public health services, the administration is taking significant steps to address the challenges within the healthcare system. Initiatives aimed at improving primary healthcare, increasing the influx of professionals, and reforming drug and medical device approval processes are particularly noteworthy.
Moreover, the government’s dedication to improving the livelihood of residents is evident. By establishing systems for targeted poverty alleviation and enhancing the housing supply, the administration acknowledges the pressing needs of its populace. This is especially crucial in light of the critical shortage of affordable housing.
Additionally, the ambitious plans for developing the Northern Metropolis as a growth engine signify a strategic move towards ensuring sustainable development. By leveraging this region’s potential, the government can create new opportunities for economic diversification while enhancing the quality of life for residents.
However, it is imperative that the government takes a more proactive approach in tackling the housing supply issue. Providing a wider array of subsidised housing options for different income classes will be essential in alleviating the housing burden faced by many families.
Encouragingly, this policy address indicates a shift in focus, reducing bias towards the interests of the business sector in favour of addressing the needs of the community. This balanced approach is a promising sign for the future of Hong Kong, fostering a more equitable society for all.
Stanley Ip, Sai Wan Ho


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Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee attends a press conference for his third policy address on October 16. Photo: Xinhua

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People sit outside the main building of the University of Hong Kong in Pok Fu Lam, on October 9. Photo: Dickson Lee

Opinion

Readers discuss the government’s moves to recognise creative property rights and address livelihood and community concerns


Readers discuss the government’s moves to recognise creative property rights and address livelihood and community concerns.


John Lee policy address 2024

Hong Kong healthcare and hospitals

Hong Kong housing

Northern Metropolis

.css-1c6uqr6{color:inherit;font-weight:inherit;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;line-height:inherit;overflow-wrap:break-word;}Readers discuss the government’s moves to recognise creative property rights and address livelihood and community concerns

Readers discuss the government’s moves to recognise creative property rights and address livelihood and community concerns