Copyright

Since Hong Kong does not have a copyright registration system, this kind of dispute often occurs. Basically, copyright is granted to the first creator of the work. The most difficult part is to substantiate that you are the first creator. In general, people ask their spouses or workers to act as witnesses. However, due to conflicts of interest, they are less preferable by the court. In this regard, the Federation of Hong Kong Industries established the copyright works depository service some 20 years ago. Original new design can be lodged for preserving evidence, which can help in establishing copyright ownership should disputes arise.

Protection:
Most two dimensional and three dimensional product designs are eligible. Examples are product drawings, fashion designs, printed matters, literature, stories, songs, computer programs, photographs, graphics, electronic circuit board, script, content of audio/ video tapes ... etc.

Procedures:
Designs submitted for deposit must fit into (or folded to fit into) envelopes measuring A4 in size provided by the Centre. For better protection, the design should be well-documented, starting from the first sketches to the final version, each being dated, signed and stamped with the company chop.

Fees:
HK$500 (non-refundable) per year, from April 1 to the last day of March of the subsequent year and is renewable very year.

Note:
To protect your products, please indicate the copyright on your products, packaging, advertisements, and catalogue etc. in the following manner: