Improving IP systems has become more important than ever, especially now as countries adopt new tools and technologies to make their processes faster, smarter, and easier for both examiners and users. Shen Changyu meets Adam Williams to discuss strategies for modernising IP frameworks and fostering closer China–UK cooperation. Every nation is upgrading its approach to keep pace with innovation, and in this direction, another notable development has taken place. CNIPA Commissioner Shen Changyu recently met with UKIPO Chief Executive Adam Williams in Beijing on November 18, 2025, where they talked about the latest progress in the IP systems of China and the UK — including advancements in AI, patent examination, and overall modernisation of IP services. Keep reading to understand why this was important, what changes it will bring to the system.
What Happened During the Meeting Between Shen Changyu and UKIPO Chief Adam Williams?
Before we look at what changes this meeting might bring, it’s important to understand what actually happened. Shen Changyu meets Adam Williams on 18 November 2025 in Beijing during the UKIPO delegation’s visit to China. The goal was to strengthen China–UK cooperation in the IP field and to share updates on how both countries are modernising their systems. They talked about several key areas, such as:
- How each country is improving its patent and trademark processes,
- The growing role of AI in IP work, patent and trademark examination practices, and how IP finance can support innovation and commercialisation.
- They also explored ways to deepen broader cooperation to better support IP users in both nations.
Several important agreements came out of the meeting. The biggest one was the signing of the 2026 bilateral work plan, which outlines how the two offices will collaborate in the upcoming year. Both sides agreed to expand cooperation and work more closely on initiatives that benefit creators, businesses, and innovators. The UKIPO also shared updates on its digital transformation and new programs aimed at supporting SMEs, further showing that both countries are focused on modernisation, smoother services, and practical improvements for the global IP community.
Read Also: China Updates Patent Examination Guidelines Effective January 1, 2026
What Benefits Can We Expect From the Shen Changyu–Adam Williams Meeting?
Now let’s look at the benefits of this meeting and the changes it could bring to the IP system. Shen Changyu meets Adam Williams is expected to create several positive improvements in the coming years. Since both sides talked about AI, digital upgrades, and better examination practices, we can look forward to faster and smoother patent and trademark processing, smarter use of new technologies, and more consistent examination standards across both countries. Their focus on IP finance also points to stronger support for innovation-driven businesses and easier ways to commercialise patents and trademarks. With the 2026 work plan signed, we can expect more joint activities, training programs, and deeper cooperation overall. For users, this simply means a more modern, reliable, and user-friendly IP system with clearer rules, quicker responses, and better support for SMEs and innovators in both nations.
Conclusion
The meeting between CNIPA and UKIPO marks another meaningful step toward a more modern and collaborative global IP environment. Shen Changyu meets Adam Williams highlights the commitment of both nations to digital innovation, better examination practices, and stronger support for innovators. The changes set in motion now are likely to benefit businesses, creators, and examiners in both countries. As China and the UK continue to work together through their 2026 plan, the IP systems of both nations are positioned to become faster, smarter, and even more user-friendly.
Read Also: EUIPO Introduces Copyright Knowledge Centre to Strengthen Creative Rights in Europe