China is continuing its efforts to enhance intellectual property (IP) protection for private enterprises to foster high-quality economic development both domestically and internationally. Guo Wen, a representative from the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA), outlined key initiatives aimed at supporting private businesses, including fast-track services for innovation protection, stricter enforcement against patent infringements, and the establishment of IP support centers to assist enterprises.

In 2024, over 72,000 patent infringement cases were successfully addressed, with more than half involving private sector firms. Additionally, nearly 140,000 IP disputes were resolved through mediation, benefiting approximately 157,000 companies. To further support businesses navigating global IP challenges, 71 guidance centers and four IP industrial institutes were established across the country.

China has also made significant strides in improving patent quality, with a notable increase in high-value patents. As of December 2024, strategic industries held more than 1.34 million valid invention patents, reflecting a 15.7% annual growth. In response to growing international business needs, new regulations on foreign-related IP disputes, set to take effect on May 1, 2025, will offer stronger protections for private enterprises engaging in global markets.

These efforts represent China's continued commitment to creating a more robust and transparent intellectual property environment for private sector growth, both within its borders and abroad.

If you have any inquiries regarding intellectual property matters in Greater China, please don’t hesitate to contact us at [email protected].

Liliana ZHANG

Trademark and Patent Attorney

[email protected]

+86 10 8446 4788