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Hong Kong Trade Marks Updates 2026

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The Trade Marks Registry has introduced a number of updates to its practices and procedures, reflecting developments under the latest edition of the Nice Classification as well as enhancements to filing and examination processes.

Update to search strategies under the 13th Edition of the Nice Classification

With the implementation of the 13th Edition of the Nice Classification, search strategies should be revisited to ensure comprehensive coverage of relevant goods and services. Practitioners are advised to review class headings, explanatory notes, and newly introduced terms, and to conduct broader and more targeted searches where necessary in order to mitigate the risk of citation or opposition based on similar marks in newly refined or reclassified categories.

The implementation of the 13th Edition may affect the class allocation of certain goods and services and, in practice, may require re‑classification for new applications or searches. However, existing registrations are generally not automatically reclassified; instead, the focus under the new edition is on ensuring that specifications and search stratere54gies properly reflect any changes in class allocation. Practitioners should review each specification item‑by‑item against the updated Nice Classification structure and, where appropriate, consider amending or narrowing descriptions to align with the revised class headings and notes.

Declaration of local physical presence by agents

Agents acting in trade mark matters are now required to declare that they maintain a local physical presence in Hong Kong. This requirement reinforces the Registry’s emphasis on ensuring accountability and effective communication within the jurisdiction.

New e‑filing capability for statutory declarations and affidavits

The Registry has expanded its e‑filing capabilities to include statutory declarations and affidavits. Notwithstanding electronic filing, parties are reminded that a copy of any statutory declaration or affidavit must still be served on the opposing party in paper form.

The Registry will also accept the e‑filing of authorities, skeleton arguments, or written submissions for which the parties wish to rely on at the hearing (referred to as “supporting materials”). The service of these supporting materials on the opposing party may be effected in paper form or, where mutually agreed between the parties, by way of electronic storage devices such as USB mass storage devices or portable hard disks with a USB interface.

Clarifications on absolute grounds of refusal under the Trade Marks Registry Work Manual

The updated Work Manual provides further guidance on examination practices in several key areas:

  • Marks contrary to morality or public policy: Greater clarity is provided on the types of marks that may be refused on the basis of being offensive, scandalous, or otherwise inconsistent with accepted societal standards.
  • Deceptive marks: The Registry has elaborated on the assessment of whether a mark has the capacity to mislead the public, particularly in relation to the nature, quality, or geographical origin of the goods or services.
  • Prohibited emblems and Article 6ter signs: Additional guidance is given on the treatment of marks incorporating protected emblems, flags, and insignia, including those covered under Article 6ter of the Paris Convention.
  • Descriptive and non‑distinctive marks: The Manual further clarifies the threshold for distinctiveness and the circumstances in which marks may be considered descriptive or lacking inherent distinctiveness, as well as the evidence required to establish acquired distinctiveness where applicable.

These updates underscore the importance of aligning filing and prosecution strategies with the latest Registry practices to ensure efficient processing and to reduce the risk of objections.

Resources: www.ipd.gov.hk (Trade Marks Registry Work Manual, Trade Marks Ordinance (Cap. 559), Nice Classification (13th Edition), User Guide

for E-Filing System, Terms of Use for Electronic Filing and Communication Services)

Disclaimer: This article is for reference only. Nothing herein shall be construed as Hong Kong legal advice or any legal advice for that matter to any person. Oldham, Li & Nie shall not be held liable for any loss and/or damage incurred by any person acting as a result of the materials contained in this article.

Oldham, Li & Nie Announces Promotion of Three New Partners

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We are pleased to announce the promotion of three senior associates to partnership. The new partners – Gon Yeung and Martin Tse from Tax Advisory and Dispute Resolution practice and Ivan Lee from the Family Law practice – represent the firm’s ongoing commitment to investing in top talent and strengthening its core practices.

The newly promoted partners have made significant contributions to the firm and its clients, demonstrating technical expertise, leadership, and a commitment to delivering high-quality legal services. The promotions support the firm’s strategic growth and reinforce its capabilities in complex contentious matters and private client work.

Commenting on the promotions, Senior Partner Gordon Oldham, said:

“We are delighted to welcome these talented lawyers to the partnership. Each of them embodies the firm’s values of excellence, collaboration, and client commitment, and their promotions reflect both their individual achievements and our continued investment in developing the next generation of OLN leaders.  As we continue to grow, their expertise and fresh perspectives will play an important role in shaping the future of our Tax, Dispute Resolution and Family Law services.”

Essential Guide: Appointing an In-House Head of Computer System Security

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Hong Kong’s Protection of Critical Infrastructures (Computer Systems) Ordinance (Cap. 653) sets tough standards for Critical Infrastructure Operators (CIOs) to protect their Critical Computer Systems (CCSs) from cyber risks. A key requirement? Appointing a dedicated in-house head to oversee computer system security. This can’t be outsourced—it must be an internal employee for full accountability.

While these guidelines are tailored to CIOs under Cap. 653, they also serve as best practices for employing any high-level management role, ensuring accountability, smooth transitions, and risk mitigation across organizations.

Based on Cap. 653, Code of Practice (v1.0), and insights from the Office of the Commissioner of Critical Infrastructure (Computer-system Security) (OCCICS) website and FAQs, here’s why this role matters and practical HR tips to handle it smoothly.

The Must-Have In-House Role: Why It Can’t Be Outsourced

CIOs need to set up a security management unit and appoint an employee to lead it (s.21(4); Code of Practice §5.3.2). This falls under Category 1 organizational duties.

  • Purpose: To build strong security governance tailored to your CIO’s unique risks.
  • In-House Requirement: The head must have “adequate professional knowledge” specific to your operations (OCCICS FAQ 6). Outsourcing of computer-system security management units is allowed but the head must be an employee appointed by the CIO (OCCICS FAQ 7).
  • Accountability: While suppliers can help with other tasks (via contracts), core oversight stays internal.
  • Risks of Non-Compliance: Fines up to HK$5 million for the organization (ss. 7, 26, 28 and 70)—but no personal penalties for individuals (OCCICS FAQ 24).

With potential designations looming as of January 16, 2026, prioritize this hire now to stay ahead.

HR Essentials: What to Focus On

Managing this role involves blending HR best practices with regulatory needs. Break it down into key areas:

1. Defining the Role and Finding the Right Fit

The head leads the security unit, handling everything from risk assessments to incident responses. This role is not just an IT function but spans cross-business units (BUs), integrating security with operations, finance, legal, and other areas to address enterprise-wide risks.

  • Core Duties: Create and implement a security plan, including access controls, training, and supply chain checks (Code of Practice §§6.2.5–6.2.27). They co-endorse the plan with top executives and review it every two years or after changes.
  • Qualifications Needed: Look for certifications like CISSP, CISM, or CISA, plus experience matching your CCS threats (Code of Practice §5.3.2).

HR Tip: Involve senior management in hiring to align with strategy—they must grasp its importance for compliance, co-endorsement (Code of Practice §6.2.1), and avoiding fines/risks across BUs (OCCICS FAQ 6). Highlight Ordinance and cross-BU aspects in job postings; verify credentials for OCCICS (Annex C of Code of Practice); onboard with team training (Code of Practice §6.2.27).

2. Handling Changes and Notifications

Any shift in this role counts as a “material change” that must be reported, including during employment termination to maintain continuity and avoid compliance gaps.

  • What Triggers Notification: New hires, departures (such as resignations or terminations), or anything affecting security (s.22(1); Annex D of Code of Practice; OCCICS FAQ 8).
  • How to Report: Use Annex C with details like name, qualifications, and start or end date (Code of Practice §5.3.3).

HR Tip: Include notification clauses in contracts; report to OCCICS immediately post-hire or termination. Require advance exit notice, successor planning, and handover to link with exit protocols and prevent disruptions.

3. Understanding Legal Risks for the Employee

The role is high-stakes, but liability is organizational.

  • No Personal Fines: Penalties hit the CIO, not the individual (OCCICS FAQ 24).
  • Internal Protections: Clear duties help avoid blame in disputes.

HR Tip: Add indemnity clauses (excluding wilful errors); link reviews to security goals for accountability, trust, and lower turnover.

4. Managing Exits: Termination, Garden Leave, and Handovers

Smooth transitions are crucial to maintain continuity (Category 1).

  • Key Concerns: Sudden exits could disrupt operations and require immediate reporting.
  • No Fixed Rules: But longer notice periods help with knowledge transfer.

HR Tip: Use 3–6 month notice periods for handovers (data/knowledge transfer, successor training); apply garden leave for secrecy (s.57, up to HK$1M fines); limit non-competes to sensitive data; ensure pay and audit support.

Wrapping Up: Make It a Smart Move

View this appointment as a boost to your cyber defenses, not just compliance. Keep detailed HR records—they can back due diligence defenses (ss.65–66).

For custom advice, reach out to Oldham Li & Nie. Aligning HR with Cap. 653 now strengthens your position in Hong Kong’s evolving critical infrastructure landscape.

Disclaimer: This article is for reference only. Nothing herein shall be construed as Hong Kong legal advice or any legal advice for that matter to any person. Oldham, Li & Nie shall not be held liable for any loss and/or damage incurred by any person acting as a result of the materials contained in this article.

Are You Ready for Madrid?

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Are you ready for Madrid – not for a relaxing holiday or to watch your favourite football team, but to extend your trade mark (brand) protection internationally.

In this context, “Madrid” refers to the Madrid System for the International Registration of Marks, an international framework administered by the World Intellectual Property Organization (“WIPO”). The system enables the trade mark owners to seek protection in multiple jurisdictions through a single application filed in one language, under one set of fees, thereby streamlining the international filing process and reducing administrative burdens.

Madrid System and Hong Kong: Current Position

At present, it is not yet possible to designate Hong Kong under the Madrid System, nor to file an international trade mark application through the Hong Kong Trade Marks Registry. The Hong Kong Government enacted the Trade Marks (Amendment) Ordinance 2020 to establish the legal framework for implementing the Madrid Protocol, but the relevant provisions will only take effect on a date to be appointed once all necessary preparatory work has been completed.

Recent government policy updates confirm that preparatory work for Hong Kong’s participation in the Madrid Protocol remains ongoing, and that implementation will only commence after the completion of legislative, IT and related arrangements. As of early 2026, no official commencement date or target year has been announced, and there is still no confirmed timetable for when the Madrid System will be extended to Hong Kong.

In anticipation of Hong Kong’s future participation in the Madrid System, it is helpful to understand the key filing requirements.

Basic Requirements for a Madrid Application

1. Eligibility

To use the Madrid System, an applicant must have a real and effective connection with at least one Madrid member. You will qualify if you:

  • are a national of, domiciled in, or have an industrial or commercial establishment in a Madrid member; and
  • have already filed or registered a trade mark (the “basic mark”) with the IP office of that member (the “Office of Origin”).

2. Basic mark requirement

Before filing an international application, you must already have filed or registered a national or regional trade mark in your Office of Origin. This “basic mark” must:

  • be the same mark;
  • be owned by the same proprietor; and
  • cover goods and/or services that are identical to, or narrower than, those claimed in the international application.

3. International application

The international application must:

  • be filed through the Office of Origin (not sent directly to WIPO);
  • use the prescribed WIPO form MM2 or a recognised e‑filing tool such as eMadrid or the Madrid Application Assistant;
  • match the particulars of the basic mark (owner details, mark representation, goods/services); and
  • designate at least one Madrid member, with payment of the WIPO basic fee plus the relevant per‑member or per‑class fees.

4. Examination and Grant of Protection

Once your Office of Origin has certified and forwarded the international application, WIPO conducts a formalities examination only, checking fees, classification and technical compliance. If the application does not comply, WIPO issues an irregularity notice to you and the Office of Origin, usually allowing a limited period (commonly three months) to correct the deficiencies.

If the formal requirements are met, WIPO records the mark in the International Register, publishes it in the WIPO Gazette of International Marks, issues a Certificate of International Registration, and notifies each designated IP office. Each designated national or regional office then carries out its own substantive examination under local trade mark law and must grant or refuse protection within a prescribed time limit, typically 12 or 18 months from notification.

If the mark is accepted, it is protected in that jurisdiction as if registered directly at the national or regional office. If protection is provisionally refused, you may need to appoint local counsel in that jurisdiction to respond or appeal in accordance with local procedures.

How to Protect Your Trade Mark in Hong Kong Now

As Hong Kong has not yet implemented the Madrid System, trade mark protection in Hong Kong can only be obtained by filing a separate application directly with the Hong Kong Trade Marks Registry.

At this stage, Hong Kong cannot be designated in an international registration under the Madrid System, and international applications cannot be filed through the Hong Kong Registry as an Office of Origin.

Where brand owners are also seeking protection in other jurisdictions that are members of the Madrid System, they will typically need to pursue two parallel routes:

  • file a standalone local application in Hong Kong for protection in the Hong Kong market; and
  • either file separate national or regional applications in other territories, or, where available, make use of the Madrid System via an eligible Office of Origin outside Hong Kong (for example, through an associated company or establishment in a Madrid member country).

This approach reflects the current reality: Hong Kong remains a separate, locally‑filed registration, while the Madrid System may be used only for those jurisdictions where it is already in force and where the applicant otherwise meets the eligibility requirements.

Getting Ready for Madrid in Hong Kong

As Hong Kong moves toward future implementation of the Madrid Protocol, it is prudent for brand owners to ensure that their key marks are already filed and registered in Hong Kong so that they can satisfy Madrid eligibility requirements once the system becomes available locally.

Our firm would be pleased to assist you with filing and maintaining trade mark registrations in Hong Kong and with developing an international filing strategy to take full advantage of the Madrid System when it is launched here.

Disclaimer: This article is for reference only. Nothing herein shall be construed as Hong Kong legal advice or any legal advice for that matter to any person. Oldham, Li & Nie shall not be held liable for any loss and/or damage incurred by any person acting as a result of the materials contained in this article.

Hong Kong Company Re-Domiciliation Regime: A New Gateway for International Businesses

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From 23 May 2025, Hong Kong has introduced a modern company re-domiciliation framework that allows overseas companies to relocate their place of incorporation to Hong Kong without creating a new legal entity. The initiative, implemented under the Companies (Amendment) (No. 2) Ordinance 2025, is designed to strengthen Hong Kong’s appeal as a premier international business centre and to encourage inward corporate migration.

This new regime provides a practical solution for multinational groups seeking legal certainty, tax efficiency, and continuity when restructuring their global footprint.

Overview of the Re-Domiciliation Framework

Under the Hong Kong re-domiciliation regime, an eligible foreign company may transfer its corporate domicile to Hong Kong while preserving its legal identity. The company continues uninterrupted, retaining its assets, liabilities, contractual rights, and legal proceedings.

Once approved, the re-domiciled entity is treated in the same way as a company originally incorporated in Hong Kong and becomes subject to the Companies Ordinance and other applicable local legislation.

Key Characteristics of the Regime

The regime offers several defining features that distinguish it from traditional corporate migration options:

  • Eligible Company Types
    The regime applies to non-Hong Kong companies comparable to Hong Kong private companies limited by shares, public companies limited by shares,  private unlimited companies with share capital and public unlimited companies with share capital.  Companies limited by guarantee without share capital are excluded.
  • No Economic Substance Threshold
    There is no minimum size, turnover, or sector requirement, making the regime accessible to a broad range of businesses.
  • Retention of Legal Structure
    Companies must re-domicile using their existing legal form. Conversion into a different corporate type is not permitted as part of the process.
  • Full Local Status After Migration
    Once re-domiciled, the company is regarded as a Hong Kong-incorporated entity for corporate law purposes.
  • Inbound-Only Mechanism
    The regime allows migration into Hong Kong but does not provide a statutory route for companies to migrate out.
  • Ongoing Compliance Obligations
    Re-domiciled companies must maintain a registered office in Hong Kong and comply with all applicable filing, governance, and statutory requirements.

Strategic Benefits of Re-Domiciling to Hong Kong

Re-domiciliation offers significant commercial and operational advantages:

Continuity of Business Operations

The company’s existence remains uninterrupted. There is no liquidation, asset transfer, or novation of contracts, which helps preserve commercial relationships and regulatory approvals.

Cost and Time Efficiency

By avoiding dissolution and re-incorporation, companies reduce administrative burden, professional fees, and execution risk.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for re-domiciliation, a company must satisfy both jurisdictional and corporate conditions.

Legal Eligibility
  • Permission Under Home Jurisdiction Law
    The laws of the company’s original jurisdiction of incorporation must allow outbound re-domiciliation (for example, permitted in the BVI and Cayman Islands but restricted in certain jurisdictions such as Bermuda).
  • Comparable Corporate Form
    The company must closely correspond to one of the eligible Hong Kong company types.
  • Operating History
    The company must have completed at least one full financial year prior to applying.
Financial and Integrity Safeguards

The regime incorporates safeguards to protect stakeholders and the integrity of the process:

  • Solvency Confirmation
    The company must not be in liquidation or receivership. Directors are required to certify solvency.
  • Good Faith Requirement
    Applications must be made genuinely and not for improper or abusive purposes.
  • Member and Creditor Protection
    Approval from at least 75% of members is required, and creditors must be formally notified of the proposed re-domiciliation.

Re-Domiciliation Application Process

When documentation is complete, the re-domiciliation procedure typically takes around two weeks.

Key documents include:

  • Proposed Articles of Association aligned with Hong Kong requirements
  • Legal opinion from the original jurisdiction confirming eligibility and compliance
  • Director’s certificate confirming solvency and good faith
  • Recent financial statements (audited or unaudited, dated within the last 12 months)
  • Prescribed application forms containing corporate particulars

Upon approval, the Companies Registry issues a Certificate of Re-Domiciliation, confirming the company’s status as a Hong Kong entity.

Following re-domiciliation, the company must:

  • Deregister from its original jurisdiction within 120 days
  • File post-registration forms reporting corporate details
  • Maintain a registered office in Hong Kong
  • Appoint a Company Secretary and a Designated Representative

Hong Kong Tax Implications

Hong Kong’s territorial tax system provides clarity and potential advantages for re-domiciled companies:

  • Profits Tax
    Only profits arising in or derived from Hong Kong are subject to tax.
  • Tax Residency and Treaties
    Re-domiciled companies are generally regarded as Hong Kong tax residents for treaty purposes, subject to meeting substance and management requirements.
  • Stamp Duty
    No stamp duty is payable on the re-domiciliation itself, although subsequent transfers of shares may attract Hong Kong stamp duty.

Considerations for Regulated Industries

Companies operating in regulated sectors—such as banking, insurance, and financial services—must engage with the relevant regulators and comply with sector-specific legislation, including licensing and approval requirements under applicable ordinances.

Early regulatory engagement is strongly recommended to avoid delays.

Who Should Consider Re-Domiciling to Hong Kong?

The Hong Kong company re-domiciliation regime is particularly attractive for:

  • Businesses with existing or planned operations in Hong Kong
  • Financial institutions and insurers seeking regulatory alignment
  • Holding companies managing investment or intellectual property structures
  • Corporate groups aiming to access Hong Kong’s extensive tax treaty network
  • Multinational enterprises adapting to evolving global tax and transparency standards

Next Steps

The re-domiciliation regime offers a flexible and business-friendly route for companies seeking a stable, internationally recognised legal base in Hong Kong.

For tailored advice on whether re-domiciliation is suitable for your organisation, and for guidance on the application process, please contact us via the enquiry form.

Disclaimer: This article is for reference only. Nothing herein shall be construed as Hong Kong legal advice or any legal advice for that matter to any person. Oldham, Li & Nie shall not be held liable for any loss and/or damage incurred by any person acting as a result of the materials contained in this article.

Estate Planning in Hong Kong

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Have you made preparations to ensure your loved ones will receive the assets you worked hard to acquire? Or is this something you keep postponing? Thinking about the topic of death can feel overwhelming. However, without a Will, your assets will be distributed in accordance with Hong Kong legislation which may not reflect your wishes.

Let’s explore some critical considerations before drafting a Will.

First, you should identify the persons who will inherit. Those are the beneficiaries. It’s also vital to have a contingency plan in case one of your beneficiaries predecease you.

Secondly, select an executive will be responsible for applying to the court for probate and upon the granting of a court order, engaging in the actual distribution of your assets. For example, dealing with the banks to access items stored in safety deposit boxes and handing over cash to beneficiaries.

Additionally, you should carefully consider how and where you will store your Will.

In addition to drafting a Will, if you wish to ensure that your finances are well taken care of in the event you become mentally incapacitated, you should think about establishing an Enduring Power of Attorney (EPOA). This document is effective only during your lifetime and enables you to designate a trusted individual to manage financial matters on your behalf, such as paying hospital bills, engaging in real estate transactions, and handling other financial matters.

The reason an Enduring Power of Attorney (EPOA) is needed in the event you become mentally unable is because financial institutions and other authorities will not accept your instructions once they learn of your mental incapacity.

Ultimately, effective estate planning protects both you and your loved ones. Even with a Will in place, disputes can arise, potentially leading to lawsuits, which can drag on for years and become expensive. Often, death is an emotionally charged event and can cause people to become different from their usual selves.

If you would like to discuss how to effectively plan your Will, please feel free to reach out to us anytime.