IP UNFOLD MONTHLY IP INFO-APRIL, 2025

1. Viva Holdings, along with its 37 subsidiaries, has signed the Ecommerce MOU to strengthen protection of its digital content and retail products against piracy. IPOPHL sees this as a major move encouraging more creatives to protect their IP rights. Viva emphasized that piracy threatens a large portion of its revenue, and stronger collaboration with platforms is crucial for sustaining the creative industry.

 

2. The USPTO has granted a patent to Ramper, a Web3 startup under Vietnam's Ninety Eight, for its social login feature that simplifies access to Web3 apps using platforms like Google and Facebook. This innovation addresses accessibility barriers in Web3 and signals strong progress for Vietnam’s blockchain sector. The patent also highlights Vietnamese startups’ growing global ambitions in the tech space.

 

3. The Supreme Court of New Zealand ruled that while copyright is relationship property under the PRA, Sirpa Alalääkkölä retains sole ownership and control of her artworks but must compensate her ex-husband for their value. This decision balances creators' rights with fair asset division after separation.

 

4. Japan and Cambodia have agreed to launch educational programs to enhance students' understanding of intellectual property rights, following a high-level seminar on promoting IP and innovation. This initiative supports Cambodia’s ongoing efforts under its 2023–2028 IP Policy to foster creativity and a fair business environment.

 

5. Laos has officially joined the European patent validation system, allowing European patents to be extended into the country starting April 1, 2025. This move enhances legal certainty and innovation by enabling Laos to rely on EPO’s expertise while applying its own patent laws.

 

6. The Philippines is marking National Intellectual Property Month 2025 by spotlighting the power of music and the importance of IP in supporting Filipino artists. With growing global recognition of Pinoy music, the celebration highlights how IP rights can elevate local talent on the world stage.

 

7. Hong Kong’s 2024 IPD survey shows consistently high public awareness of IP rights, with over 90% recognizing protections for copyright, trademarks, and patents. The findings also highlight strong support for IP enforcement and low infringement rates, reinforcing Hong Kong’s role as a regional IP hub.