Eyes on Hangzhou

The first International Association for the Protection of Intellectual Property (AIPPI) World Congress hosted by China kicks off in the picturesque city of Hangzhou in October. Long Chuanhong, president of the Chinese Group of AIPPI, sits down with China Business Law Journal to give readers a sneak peek at the highlights of this longstanding IP event

China Business Law Journal: What’s the significance of hosting the 2024 AIPPI World Congress in China for the first time on the country’s IP community? What challenges are you facing in organising this landmark event, and how are you leading the team in overcoming them?

Long Chuanhong: The AIPPI World Congress stands as a pivotal event in the global IP landscape, fostering an inclusive and collaborative platform for IP professionals worldwide to engage in dialogue and idea exchange.

Hosting the AIPPI World Congress for the first time in China since the AIPPI’s establishment 127 years ago will have a positive impact on China’s IP community. Over 600 Chinese members have already signed up for this historic event. They will delve into cutting-edge IP topics such as patents, trademarks, copyrights and IP protection alongside nearly 1,300 international attendees.

This congress will deepen the Chinese IP community’s insights into evolving global trends while acquainting foreign participants with China’s strides in IP protection, showcasing its support for innovation through robust safeguards.

The gathering in China will encourage more Chinese IP professionals to actively engage in discussions on resolutions and bolster international alignment on IP laws and practices.

Undoubtedly, the congress will greatly influence the growth of the Chinese Group of the AIPPI, injecting dynamism through increased Chinese membership.

This year’s congress is expected to attract more than 2,000 attendees, of whom more than 65% will be from abroad, making it the first time that such a large-scale international IP event is held in China’s history. This poses a number of challenges in terms of venue, catering, transportation, payment, etc.

We have to take into consideration the travel, catering, transportation and payment habits of the foreign attendees to make them feel at home.

The Chinese Group managed to overcome these challenges by working closely with the local team of the Hangzhou congress and our colleagues in the AIPPI General Secretariat, and with the strong support of the local authorities in Hangzhou.

CBLJ: This year’s AIPPI World Conference has the theme “balanced protection and innovative development of intellectual property”. What is the significance of this theme in the current global IP environment?

Long: The theme of the congress is prominently displayed in the programmes of the Hangzhou congress.

The four themes of the AIPPI Study Committee deal with: (1) harmonisation of patent disclosure requirements and the consequences of non-compliance; (2) conflicts between composite trademarks including non-distinctive elements; (3) defence of parody in copyright; and (4) unjustified allegations of IP rights.

In-depth discussion of these highly specialised issues in the IP field will not only be helpful in promoting co-ordinated protection of IP rights in various countries and regions, but will also deter unwarranted extensions or misuse of IP rights.

Whether it’s advocating for robust IP safeguards or setting reasonable boundaries on IP rights exercises, the ultimate goal remains consistent: fuelling technological innovation and artistic expression, and harnessing IP rights as a positive catalyst for economic growth and societal welfare.

CBLJ: What unique experiences and inspirations do you believe attendees and the IP community will draw from convening in the dynamic and culturally vibrant city of Hangzhou?

Long: Hangzhou, with its enchanting West Lake, majestic Qiantang River, ancient Liangzhu ruins and the enduring tales of literary giants, stands as a city steeped in history and innovation. Its gardens and architecture reflect the grace and charm of Jiangnan. As the erstwhile capital of the Southern Song Dynasty, Hangzhou exudes a unique cultural essence shaped by Song heritage.

In recent times, Hangzhou has played host to prestigious events like the G20 Summit and the Asian Games, blending its rich legacy with modern progress.

The dazzling light spectacle along the Qiantang River waterfront showcases the city’s economic and social milestones, propelled by industry giants such as Alibaba and Geely alongside a thriving ecosystem of innovative small to medium enterprises.

Attendees will traverse through centuries, transitioning between ancient traditions and modern marvels, immersing themselves in the beauty of Hangzhou and witnessing the transformative journey of China.

In this emblematic Chinese city, foreign visitors will witness firsthand the remarkable strides made through the nation’s reform and opening-up policies, marvel at its modern achievements, experience the top-tier business environment fostering innovation, delve into the robust framework of China’s IP protection, and witness the boundless vitality and potential stemming from China’s ancient civilisation.

CBLJ: In recent years, China has become increasingly active in harmonising its IP laws with those internationally. What relevant sessions on the agenda of this year’s congress merit close attention?

Long: The congress agenda spans diverse realms like patents, trademarks, copyrights, designs, trade secrets and more. Among these, the AIPPI study committee’s four core themes take centre stage, addressing pressing concerns within the AIPPI community.

These topics will undergo thorough deliberation during the congress, culminating in resolutions post the AIPPI executive committee’s vote. These resolutions will then be shared with the WIPO, WTO, and global IP authorities, legislators and judiciaries for guidance in shaping IP policies, legislation and enforcement practices.

The congress will also have panel discussions on IP protection in the pharmaceutical field and review the operation of the Unified Patent Court of Europe (UPC). The congress has also invited senior officials from such organisations as IP5 and WIPO to participate in roundtable discussions to talk about the latest developments in IP in various countries and regions.

With a spotlight on China, the congress will delve into China-centric topics and activities.

• Some guests can register to observe the trial on 18 October of a patent infringement case organised by the Hangzhou Intermediate People’s Court;
• Experts from the China National IP Administration, the Supreme People’s Court (SPC) and the Hangzhou Intermediate People’s Court have been invited to talk about the latest developments and achievements in the review and protection of IP in China, in the China session on 20 October; and
• Representatives of well-known Chinese and foreign e-commerce platforms have been invited to discuss issues of IP infringement on e-commerce platforms and social media, on 21 October.