Chinese police at all levels will strike hard to prevent infringement of intellectual property rights (IPR) during the Shanghai World Expo, the Public Security Ministry said Tuesday.

The campaign will focus on counterfeiting of registered trademarks and patents, as well as violations of the intellectual rights of exhibitors, the statement said.

The produce and sale of fake goods inside Expo venues, Shanghai City, major tourist areas, and other places will be strictly prohibited, the statement said.

The production and sale of fake brand-name goods will be cracked down upon, the statement said.

The campaign would also strike blows against the production of fake food, cigarettes, alcohol, medicines, cosmetics and electrical appliances, the statement said.

Moreover, a nationwide crackdown will be launched on April 22 to destroy pirated and illegal publications.

The Shanghai World Expo is scheduled to be held between May 1 to October 31.

(Xinhua April 14, 2010)