China accelerates layout of IPR protection centers

China will further accelerate the layout of intellectual property right (IPR) protection centers and provide one-stop solutions for dispute resolution, according to the National Intellectual Property Administration.

The general offices of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the State Council have jointly issued a directive calling for intensified protection of IPR.

Titled "The Guideline on Strengthening Intellectual Property Rights Protection," the document said China aims to set up a number of IPR protection centers in competitive industrial clusters to increase the efficiency of accepting and hearing cases.

"The purpose is to solve the proof-providing difficulties and reduce the period and cost of IPR protection by reviewing, confirming and protecting rights rapidly and in a coordinated fashion. More convenient, efficient and low-cost protection channels will be provided for the public," said Zhang Zhicheng, head of the protection department of NIPA.

At present, China has approved the establishment of 25 IPR centers, which are welcomed by all sectors of society, especially small and medium-sized science and technology enterprises.