Chinese IP reforms promise boost to trade and competitiveness:
This article was originally published in Clinica
Executive Summary
An overhaul of China's intellectual property (IP) regime promises to boost local enterprise and international co-operation alike, according to the government. The "China 2008 IP Rights Protection Action Plan", which was unveiled in basic terms last week by the State IP Office, features 280 amendments in 10 key areas. These include: IP protection for local enterprises, featuring guidance on developing IP systems and on how best to use them to improve competitiveness; international co-operation, with 27 measures that include encouraging inspection trips and seminars; revised and new legislation, affecting foreign trade, among other areas; improvements to processes, seeking increased co-ordination between central government and the regions, and better complaint and reporting systems; publicity; training; and IP-related research.