The traditional understanding of the creation, manufacture, reproduction, dissemination and sale of works, objects, artefacts, physical and virtual items is evolving with the development of new technologies. Artificial intelligence, extended reality, Web3, quantum and neuromorphic computing are just some of the disruptive technology trends that are posing doctrinal challenges for copyright, trademarks and patents. In addition, the registered design right is evolving to encompass virtual designs produced by immersive technologies, and the emerging legal regime for the protection of traditional knowledge and traditional cultural expression will also have to find its footing amidst the accelerating pace of technological advancement.

In a truly transcontinental collaboration, research centres from the law schools of NUS, Columbia, Oxford and Tsinghua are co-hosting a two-day international seminar in Singapore, to explore solutions to these challenges. The Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) will be delivering the keynote address at this event. The conference will assemble legal scholars, practitioners and policymakers from around the world to consider the way forward in the next decade. This expert conference will be oriented towards the discussion of transborder solutions, coordinated policy approaches, interdisciplinary insights, and the sharing of best practices.