Intellectual Property Systems in Europe and China

What are the differences and similarities between the Intellectual Property Systems in China and in Europe, and why is it important for SMEs?

Intellectual Property (IP), as an intangible asset, is a key factor in the competitiveness of your business in the global economy. IP is a primary method for securing a return on investment in innovation and is particularly relevant to EU Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) as they internationalise their business to areas such as Mainland China. Although SMEs often have limited time and resources, it is important to be aware of how IP can be valuable to your business. Not only a means of protecting innovations from competitors, IP assets can also be an important source of cash-flow for SMEs through licensing deals or IP sales, as well as a significant pull-factor when attracting investors.

China and European Union Member States are members of the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) and parties to international agreements on the protection of IPR, namely the Paris Convention, Berne Convention, and TRIPS Agreement (Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights). Therefore, the scope of IPR protection (e.g. the types of rights, duration of protection, geographical extent of protection, and basic protection requirements) is in principle, the same in China and Europe. However, there are some differences which are useful to understand to efficiently manage your intellectual property in China. This seminar will provide you with an overview of IP in Europe and China, provide you with main take-aways and best practices and will have you better understand the differences and similarities and how they could apply to your company and/or innovation.