The Hong Kong government has commenced a two-month public consultation aimed at modernizing the Copyright Ordinance (CO) to address advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) technology. The consultation seeks to tackle key issues such as copyright protection for AI-generated works and liability for copyright infringement.
The consultation initiative aims to update Hong Kong’s copyright framework to accommodate the rapid developments in AI technology. Key objectives include:
Copyright Protection for AI-Generated Works: Addressing the legal framework necessary to protect works created by AI systems, ensuring creators and investors are adequately safeguarded under current copyright laws.
Liability for Copyright Infringement: Clarifying legal responsibilities and liabilities concerning copyright infringement related to AI-generated content.
Exceptions and Limitations: Considering potential exceptions or limitations that may apply to AI-generated works, balancing copyright protection with public access and innovation.
The Commerce and Economic Development Bureau underscored the importance of aligning Hong Kong’s copyright regime with regional intellectual property goals, as outlined in the National 14th Five-Year Plan. The consultation process involved a thorough review of local legislation, international practices, and market dynamics to ensure comprehensive updates.
To facilitate broad engagement, the consultation includes a public forum scheduled for August 2nd. Stakeholders, including industry professionals, legal experts, and the general public, are invited to submit feedback and suggestions via email, fax, or postal mail until September 8th.