On November 21, 2024, Beijing became the center of a discussion on artificial intelligence (AI) and copyright protection. Hosted by the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) in collaboration with the Copyright Society of China (CSC), and supported by the EU-funded IP Key China project, this event brought together experts from both China and the EU to explore AI’s impact on the copyright landscape.

The session delved into how AI is transforming copyright systems, particularly in generating, managing, and protecting creative content. AI-powered tools, capable of automating tasks such as content creation, image generation, and music composition, are driving innovation in creative industries. However, these advancements also raise critical challenges, such as determining authorship and redefining intellectual property rights.

Experts from China and the EU engaged in in-depth discussions on key topics, including the criteria for granting copyright to AI-generated works, the implications for collective management organizations, and strategies for effective policy and regulation. The dialogue underscored both the opportunities AI offers for creative growth and the complexities it introduces to traditional copyright systems.

China’s active participation in this event reflects its commitment to addressing the rapidly evolving interplay between AI and intellectual property. The Copyright Society of China emphasized the importance of global collaboration in navigating these challenges and developing robust frameworks that align with emerging technologies.

This session provided a dynamic platform for fostering cooperation between China and the EU, offering insights and strategies to adapt copyright systems to the AI era. The event reaffirmed the shared goal of building a resilient IP framework to support innovation in an ever-changing digital landscape.

If you have any inquiries regarding intellectual property matters, please don’t hesitate to contact us at [email protected].

Tammy LI, S&O IP China, Trademark Attorney