EU Official: China Makes Progress in IPR Legislation

October 22, 2004
EU Official: China Makes Progress in IPR Legislation
The Chinese Government has made positive progress in IPR protection legislation and enforcement, says Mr. Stoul, deputy director of the EU Internal Market Department in his visit to Beijing on October 21st .

On October 19th, Stoul arrived in Beijing with the EU Commission delegation to participate in the Sino-Europe IPR Dialogue Conference from October 21st to 22nd. It marked the official start-up of the IPR dialogue mechanism between China and Europe.

Stoul said that he had communicated with Chinese officials from the Ministry of Commerce on such topics as government procurement, IPR and finance service. He also exchanged views with delegates from the National Trademark Administration, National Copyright Administration, and Music Copyright Association on IPR protection issues.

Stoul spoke highly of the Chinese government’s firm stands on taking strong measures against IPR infringement. He said that Chinese Vice Premier Wu Yi’s proposal of establishing an IPR Protection Working Team clearly illustrates the Chinese government’s efforts to strengthen IPR protection. He went on to say that he was pleased to see that the Chinese government has agreed to elevate criminal penalties with regards to IPR infringements and promulgate judicial interpretations of lowering thresholds of IPR protection law enforcement before the end of the year.

Stoul said that both Chinese and EU leaders have made the strategic objective of “becoming the biggest trade and investment partners of each other”. This long-term strategic partnership will not be placated because of IPR protection issues. On the contrary, the relationship will be enhanced at a faster pace given both their mutual efforts.

　

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