The Great Wall of Patents: Decoupling Strengthens China’s IP Regime

China’s 14th five-year plan sets clear signals: Beijing will continue to decouple itself from the Western world, especially from the USA, and become more autonomous in many areas. Imports and supplies from abroad will be reduced, the domestic market strengthened and its own companies protected and promoted – also abroad. The concept of dual circulation,… Continue reading The Great Wall of Patents: Decoupling Strengthens China’s IP Regime

Breach of Business Secrets for the Benefit of Foreign Parties

In the draft for the extension of the criminal law, a new paragraph against industrial espionage in particular attracts attention: “Anyone who steals, spies on, buys or illegally makes available trade secrets for the benefit of foreign corporations, organizations or persons shall be punished with a prison sentence of up to 5 years or a… Continue reading Breach of Business Secrets for the Benefit of Foreign Parties

China’s National Security Law: Restrictions on Data and Technology

The National Security Law (NSL), which came into force in June 2020, has implications for Hong Kong-based businesses in terms of technology and data. For example, Internet service providers must now grant the authorities access to user data and review their cross-border data flows. Technology companies must restructure their business activities if Western export bans… Continue reading China’s National Security Law: Restrictions on Data and Technology

China’s New Data Protection Law Requires More Compliance

The National People’s Congress presented the draft for the new Data Security Law (DSL) in July 2020. In contrast to the Cyber Security Law (CSL), which has been in force since 2017, the Data Security Law will regulate all data activities within the country. The scope of the new DSL law is thus exceptionally broad:… Continue reading China’s New Data Protection Law Requires More Compliance