Winning a major supply contract can open new doors for regional manufacturers. But as businesses develop new processes, tooling and know-how for major customers, who owns the resulting IP? Clear contract terms can help protect the value your business builds along the way.

Hunter businesses looking to grow into ASEAN markets should think about intellectual property early. Trade marks, patents, confidential know-how and commercial agreements can all become more complicated overseas, so understanding what you own and what needs protecting before entering a new market can save significant time and cost later.