China's Ministry of Commerce announced on Monday that channels of communication with the European Union (EU) on intellectual property issues remain open. The statement comes in response to the EU filing a complaint at the World Trade Organization (WTO) against China's judicial practices concerning standard essential patent disputes.
On January 20, China received a consultation request from the EU, according to an online statement by the Ministry of Commerce. The ministry emphasized that China has consistently adhered to WTO rules and its commitments upon accession. It highlighted the nation's ongoing efforts to improve legislation and law enforcement related to the protection of intellectual property rights (IPR), achievements that have been widely recognized globally.
\"China has always maintained open channels for dialogue with the EU on intellectual property matters,\" the ministry stated. \"We will handle subsequent matters in accordance with WTO rules and firmly safeguard our legitimate rights and interests.\"
The EU's complaint centers on concerns over China's judicial measures that allegedly restrict EU companies from protecting their standard essential patents in foreign courts. Standard essential patents are crucial for compliance with international standards in various industries, including telecommunications and technology.
China and the EU are significant trading partners, and intellectual property rights have been a key area of ongoing dialogue. The Ministry of Commerce's openness to communication suggests a willingness to resolve disputes through consultation and cooperation within the framework of the WTO.
(Cover Image: The building of the Chinese Ministry of Commerce in Beijing, China. /CFP)
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China says it's open to communication with EU on intellectual property
cgtn.com
