The Congress commenced with a grand opening ceremony, featuring China’s Vice Premier, Mr. Zhang Guoqing, and a congratulatory message from President Xi Jinping. Xi underscored China’s commitment to IP protection and its global impact. Xi’s message resonated with the theme of international cooperation, aligning with China's vision of contributing "Chinese wisdom and solutions" to global IP governance.
Uwe Borchert, FICPI’s Treasurer General, represented FICPI at the Congress, at the ExCo, at the General Assembly, and at the NGO meeting as well as at the GNIPA meeting after the Congress. These gatherings established connections that would fuel rich interactions across the sessions and workshops.
The Congress’s agenda offered diverse sessions covering critical topics, including IP protection in China, the Unified Patent Court's (UPC) first year, and advancements in AI and drug discovery. Pharma Day, focusing on trade mark use in pharmaceuticals and microbiome patenting, showcased innovative discussions relevant to legal, scientific, and policy sectors. In addition, panels addressed topics like the WIPO Treaty on Traditional Knowledge and the IP landscape’s future.
Networking was a Congress focal point, with lunches and other sessions providing ample opportunities for attendees to engage with industry experts and expand their professional circles. For those involved in European patent litigation, a session on the UPC’s implications highlighted that 65% of related cases are now managed in Germany, underscoring shifts in the patent litigation framework.
The cultural evening on October 21 presented "Elegance of Xianghu", a breathtaking digital lake show that blended technology and tradition. This large-scale production, staged on Xianghu Lake with hills and the sky forming a natural theatre, celebrated 8,000 years of Hangzhou’s heritage through digital projections, fountains, and drones. The show encapsulated the enduring spirit of Hangzhou's cultural legacy, offering a memorable experience for all.
The NGO Meeting, held on October 19, facilitated dialogue among leaders of prominent IP associations, including discussions on future studies, membership recruitment, and insights into the impact of the UPC on the profession in Europe.
The General Assembly and Executive Committee meetings on October 22nd, addressed significant amendments to AIPPI’s statutes and regulations, marking a pivotal step in refining the organisation’s governance.
Uwe Borchert congratulated the new president Lorenza Ferrari Hofer from Switzerland to her new role. He emphasised the good cooperation between FICPI and AIPPI and expressed his wish to welcome Lorenza to the next FICPI World Congress in Naples.
The GNIPA meeting took place on October 23 after the Congress, where stakeholders discussed topics like Patent Law Harmonization. FICPI’s point of view around SPLH was presented by Jérôme Collin during the GNIPA meeting. Uwe Borchert could affirm that FICPI will support also future Symposia with the USPTO and EUIPO on SPLH.
The 2024 AIPPI World Congress in Hangzhou was a dynamic convergence of innovation, education, and cultural appreciation. Against the backdrop of one of China’s most historically rich cities, the Congress reinforced the collaborative efforts necessary to navigate and shape the future of intellectual property globally. From enlightening sessions to inspiring cultural showcases, attendees left with valuable insights, lasting connections, and a shared vision for IP’s role in fostering global innovation.
FICPI’s view and involvement
Independent IP attorneys help organisations protect and build value in their IP assets, and bring insights and counsel from a wider external perspective and a commitment to high quality work. FICPI brings IP attorneys from around the world together to connect, share knowledge and grow.
Next steps
- Consider becoming involved with FICPI's Study & Work Committees, with groups ranging from designs to international patents, and biotechnology & pharmaceuticals.