As technology becomes increasingly integrated into daily life, intellectual property (IP) conflicts have surged globally, with Asia at the forefront of this trend. In 2024, Asia accounted for 55.7 percent of international patent filings through the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), a significant rise from 40.3 percent in 2012. Recently, a Japanese supplier of semiconductor test equipment secured a $20 million settlement in a JAMS dispute with a Singaporean competitor, following a California court's ruling that the arbitrator had overstepped his authority by issuing discovery subpoenas to non-parties. Protecting IP remains a vital component of a product company's growth strategy.

According to data, China filed 272,600 patent applications, continuing to reign the top origin of PCT applications for the fifth consecutive year. Given the prevailing cut-throat competition across markets, scandals, financial crises, and the globalization of anything & everything, it could create stumbling blocks in your organization’s journey, not to mention the dynamic and swiftly evolving compliance landscape. Compliance is increasingly becoming a facet of continuing success stories. Ethical guidance and long-term risk management are paramount, whether a startup or an established organization.

Hence, the role of a Chief Compliance Officer has become increasingly important and complex while undergoing a lot of transformation over the past few years, especially in Asia. In truth, organizations worldwide now need CCOs to manage the compliance department similarly to operational units and, in turn, directly contribute to organizational growth. We dedicate this special issue to the CCOs in Hong Kong. Do let us know your thoughts.