- Some 330 exhibitors from around the world, showcasing more than 600 brands and intellectual properties (IPs) will be attending HKILS

- ALC features nearly 20 international licensing industry experts to discuss the latest global licensing trends, sustainable licensing models, immersive art and technology applications, and IP innovations

- The event features more than 30 panda-themed IPs, with the Beijing Municipal Cultural Heritage Bureau and two Egyptian museums participating for the first time

-“Hong Kong Licensing Force” is a new exhibition zone showcasing design and IP projects from multiple Hong Kong universities.

The 22nd Hong Kong International Licensing Show (HKILS) and the 14th Asian Licensing Conference (ALC), organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), commence today for three days at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Over 330 exhibitors from around the world are showcasing more than 600 brands and intellectual properties (IPs) at HKILS. At the concurrent ALC, nearly 20 international licensing industry experts will explore key industry topics. Both these events foster cross-sector and cross-industry collaboration, enhance the commercial value of IP, and expand the IP trading ecosystem, reinforcing Hong Kong’s position as a regional IP and licensing trading hub.

Margaret Fong, HKTDC Executive Director, said at the opening ceremony: “These two flagship events reflect the continued growth and vitality of the global licensing sector. Thanks to our world-class experience and talents, robust legal protections, proximity to growth markets and a new generation of consumers, Hong Kong is an established IP and licensing trading hub. HKILS provides a vibrant platform for the city’s emerging creative talents who are developing new IPs.”

ALC focuses on trending topics, including how classic character and cultural heritage IPs can preserve their original spirit while staying relevant. Ms Fong added that ALC will include the enduring stories of truly iconic and globally appealing characters such as the Peanuts gang and the Smurfs, and explore the potential of these IPs to further develop their reach and appeal in the ever-changing marketplace. The conference will also take a deep dive into the rich cultural heritage of China and Egypt, two of the world’s most historic civilisations, and how such timeless IP create fresh connections and generate new experiences in today’s world.

HKILS and ALC welcomed Raistlin Lau, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region’s Acting Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, as the guest of honour at the opening ceremony. Mr Lau remarked: “Brands and Intellectual Property has been proven as the cornerstone of the creative industry. The annual Hong Kong International Licensing Show is the flagship event in Asia that gathers global license sources and brand representatives in Hong Kong to explore infinite business opportunities with licensees, licensing agents and traders. In the three-day fair, among the 330 exhibitors are 43 Hong Kong emerging design companies which will showcase their licensable designs in Hong Kong Pavillion, which is one of the CreateSmart Initiative projects supported by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency under the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau.”

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