Zhuang, Wei --- "Evolution of the patent system in China" [2013] ELECD 1385; in Abbott, M. Frederick; Correa, M. Carlos; Drahos, Peter (eds), "Emerging Markets and the World Patent Order" (Edward Elgar Publishing, 2013) 155

Book Title: Emerging Markets and the World Patent Order

Editor(s): Abbott, M. Frederick; Correa, M. Carlos; Drahos, Peter

Publisher: Edward Elgar Publishing

ISBN (hard cover): 9781783471249

Section: Chapter 9

Section Title: Evolution of the patent system in China

Author(s): Zhuang, Wei

Number of pages: 26

Abstract/Description:

China’s stunning economic performance over the past three decades has largely relied on its manufacturing competitive advantage which is to a great extent based on cheap labour, low-cost resources and extensive environmental pollution. In order to achieve sustainable economic growth, the Chinese government seeks to transform itself from a global manufacturing hub to an innovation engine by 2020. The issuance of the landmark document titled ‘The National Outline for Medium and Long Term Science and Technology Development Planning (2006–2020)’ (hereafter ‘the MLP’) has mapped out such a transition. The MLP aims to enhance indigenous innovation capabilities through a variety of policies and measures, including financial and taxation policies encouraging technological innovation at the enterprise level and safeguarding the interests of intellectual property rights (IPRs) owners. Despite the recent patent explosion in China, it remains to be seen precisely what effects these policies will have on China’s technological progress.