After two and a half years of preparation, China plans to
release its national intellectual property rights (IPR) strategy
this year, according to the State Intellectual Property Office.
The strategy will have three stages: information, services and
trade, said Tian Lipu, head of the office, during a conference on
Tuesday.
The strategy began to be mapped out in July, 2005. So far, China
has drawn up 20 methods to protect IPR, including improving the
protection system, strengthening law enforcement and raising public
awareness.
"The strategy is vital to fully implementing the power of the
country's intellectual property rights system and to promote the
development of the country's economy and science," Tian said.
Tian noted that in 2007, China saw significant progress in
protecting IPR in various areas, industries and companies.
Organizations for guiding the strategy were set up in 17
provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities. Guangdong,
Guizhou, Shandong and Shanghai municipality have already issued
their own strategies.
China will set up about 40 service centers for IPR protection.
The centers will provide consultations and financial support for
those who can't afford to pursue cases.
(Xinhua News Agency January 31, 2008)