4. I have 20 computers in my company and need to be cost-conscious when purchasing software. Can I install cheaper yet lawful copies of software purchased from other countries? Will it make any difference if there is an exclusive dealer of the software in Hong Kong?
After 28 November 2003 , copies of computer programs lawfully made in other countries will not be regarded as infringing copies for the purposes of section 35(3) of the Copyright Ordinance. This means that the possession of such copies in Hong Kong will not infringe the copyright in the computer program, whether or not the possession is for the purpose of trade, and whether or not there is an exclusive dealer of the computer program in Hong Kong . Thus you are free to install lawful copies of software purchased from other countries on to the computers in your company.
Note, however, that this exemption applies only to copies of a computer program and ancillary works embodied in the same article as a copy of the computer program. The exemption does not apply to other copyright works (see section 35A of the Copyright Ordinance).
Print
Email