Secretary for Commerce, Industry & Technology John Tsang says Hong Kong is committed to protecting intellectual property rights, with its effective legal framework backed by rigorous enforcement and a public education programme.

Speaking at the Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation ministerial meeting in Busan, South Korea today, Mr Tsang said Hong Kong recognised piracy and counterfeiting are global issues that call for international co-operation.

"This is especially the case when we are facing the challenges posed to us by the advances in digital technology. Hong Kong welcomes further co-operation with other member economies in our efforts in combating intellectual property rights infringement in the digital era."

Mr Tsang said the proposed voluntary model guidelines on ways to combat counterfeiting and infringing activities and online piracy were taken on board at today's meeting. It will provide useful reference for member economies to improve their protection regime.