China's Ministry of Commerce announced on Monday that channels of communication with the European Union on intellectual property issues remain open. This statement comes in response to the EU filing a complaint at the World Trade Organization (WTO) against China's judicial measures concerning standard essential patent disputes.
The Ministry confirmed that China received a consultation request from the EU on January 20, addressing concerns over the matter. In an online statement responding to media inquiries, the Ministry emphasized China's commitment to adhering strictly to WTO rules and its accession commitments. It highlighted the continuous improvement of legislation and law enforcement related to the protection of intellectual property rights, noting that these achievements have been widely recognized.
\"China has always maintained open channels of communication with the EU regarding intellectual property issues,\" the Ministry stated. \"We will address subsequent matters in accordance with WTO rules and firmly safeguard our legitimate rights and interests.\"
The EU's complaint marks a significant development in the ongoing dialogue between China and the EU concerning trade and intellectual property rights. The WTO complaint specifically targets China's judicial practices in handling standard essential patent disputes, which the EU believes may be inconsistent with international trade agreements.
Both China and the EU are major players in global trade, and open communication is seen as vital to resolving such disputes amicably. Observers are watching closely to see how this situation unfolds and its potential impact on international trade relations.
Reference(s):
China says it's open to communication with EU on intellectual property
cgtn.com
