President’s Message

In November 2025, I had the honor of assuming the office of President of the Asian Patent Attorneys Association (APAA). While I am deeply honored to undertake this role, I am also keenly aware of the responsibility it entails. I would like to express my sincere respect and appreciation to the past Presidents, officers, and members whose dedication has contributed to the development of this Association. Building upon their achievements, I will do my utmost to further strengthen and advance APAA.

Since its establishment in 1969, APAA has served as a forum where intellectual property professionals across Asia deepen their relationships, share knowledge and experience, and promote mutual understanding. At the heart of these activities lie the principles of Friendship and Study, which have guided the Association for more than half a century and continue to represent the spirit of APAA.

As President, I would like to pursue several guiding policies for the future development of the Association.

1. Friendship will remain the foundation of our activities. In addition to strengthening ties among our members, we will continue to foster friendly relations with international organizations such as WIPO and AIPPI, thereby reinforcing the global network of intellectual property professionals.
2. We will further promote APAA’s tradition of study and academic activities. The work of the Standing Committees, the Patent Surgery Course, the Trademark Caravan, as well as workshops and roundtables, are important pillars supporting the intellectual activities of the Association.
3. We will uphold Fairness and Equality, including equality of opportunity and gender equality, while supporting initiatives such as Women in IP and encouraging active participation across all regions.
4. We will strive to enhance transparency and improve members’ access to information, including through the possible establishment of a digital library relating to APAA’s activities and intellectual property systems in Asia.
5. From the perspective of effective organizational management, we will also review the organizational structure, including the composition of officers and committees. In particular, on February 18, 2026, APAA was established as a General Incorporated Association under Japanese law (APAA GIA), which provides a stable and transparent foundation for the Association’s governance.

With the continued support and cooperation of our members, I look forward to working together to further strengthen and develop our Association.