In 2024, the announcement of significant qualitative and quantitative progress in China’s intellectual property rights (IPR) is not merely a collection of statistics. It represents the maturation of the country’s economic and industrial strategies and its arrival at a new stage of international competitiveness. This article examines the background of this development and explores its future implications.
China’s Strategy Reflected in the Evolution of Intellectual Property Rights
With the number of effective domestic invention patents reaching 4.756 million and the number of patents in strategic emerging industries rising 15.7% year-on-year, China is transforming from a “patent powerhouse” to a “patent superpower.” This growth can be analyzed from three key perspectives:
- Innovation Driven by Policy
The Chinese government has prioritized intellectual property rights as a national strategy, implementing special actions to promote the practical application of patents by strengthening collaboration between universities, research institutions, and enterprises. This has fostered corporate growth through the utilization of vast patent resources, enhancing the overall competitiveness of domestic industries. Notably, the 39.1% year-on-year increase in patent commercialization licenses from universities and research institutions symbolizes the accelerated process of turning fundamental research into commercial value.
- Enhanced Competitiveness in International Markets
China’s achievement of world-leading numbers in PCT international patents, Madrid international trademarks, and design applications under the Hague Agreement demonstrates its growing presence not only in the domestic market but also on the global stage. This progress strengthens the foundation for Chinese companies to enter overseas markets and enhance their brand value.
- Expanding Economic Impact
The total export and import value of intellectual property royalties reached 356.41 billion yuan, up 6.6% year-on-year, highlighting the increasing influence of IPR-related businesses on China’s economy. This evolution signifies China’s transition from a “manufacturing powerhouse” to an “IPR-exporting nation.”
Impact on Other Countries and Challenges
China’s success in IPR strategy is expected to influence other nations, particularly by intensifying competition in the intellectual property field, where developed countries have traditionally held an advantage. This may lead to the revision of international rules and the emergence of new challenges in IPR management. However, certain issues need to be addressed:
- Further Improvement in Patent “Quality”
Beyond quantitative growth, there is a need to prioritize technological originality and practical applicability.
- stablishing International Credibility
Concerns about insufficient transparency in IPR protection and incomplete legal frameworks highlight the need for stronger legal systems to gain international trust.
Conclusion: The Future of Intellectual Property Rights and Their Impact on the Global Economy
The qualitative and quantitative advancement of intellectual property rights in China accelerates the country’s economic development while potentially redefining the rules of global IPR competition. Other nations should view this not as a threat but as an opportunity to strengthen collaboration and competitiveness in the IPR domain.
China’s next step in establishing its position as an “IPR superpower” lies in deepening cooperation with the international community while further enhancing its innovation capabilities. Observing this evolution may provide crucial insights into the future of the global economy.
