Assessing Coherence of the Intellectual Property Rights Regime in China (Law Overview‪)‬

In this article I discuss China's recent and ongoing legislative reforms in intellectual property rights (IPRs). These reforms combine to achieve a legal framework for protecting intellectual property that is comparable to that in most developed nations. However, there are structural impediments to the effective use of IPRs arising from weaknesses in China's administration and enforcement policies. At present these difficulties raise significant costs for both foreign and domestic enterprises, largely offsetting any stimulus from legal reforms. I also consider the coherence of China's emerging IPRs regime, in conjunction with other development policies, for promoting both innovation and key social objectives. 1. INTRODUCTION