Hong Kong Customs and Japan Customs co-hosted the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Workshop on Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Border Enforcement from November 11 to 13 in Hong Kong to enhance collaboration among Customs counterparts.
Ending today (November 13), the three-day Workshop provided an effective platform for Customs and IPR officials to exchange views and information on enforcement strategies in combating IPR crime. Joining the Workshop were 21 APEC economies and global organisations.
In addition to government officials, 11 representatives of IPR rights holders were invited to join the Workshop on the last day in a bid to enhance government-business communication and co-operation on IPR enforcement.
At the Workshop, participants shared their experience in IPR border enforcement and highlighted the importance of Customs-business partnerships in the fight against piracy and counterfeiting activities. The programme also included a visit to the Electronic Crime Investigation Centre and Computer Forensic Laboratory of Hong Kong Customs, where advanced technology on cyber investigation and evidence collection have been introduced.
The Workshop provided a valuable opportunity to strengthen network connection and collaboration among Customs officials and various stakeholders on IPR protection. Well received by all the participants, the Workshop ended successfully with enhanced information exchange for the future advancement of international IPR enforcement.
Ends/Thursday, November 13, 2014
