China has reaffirmed its willingness to engage in open dialogue with the European Union (EU) on intellectual property rights (IPR), following the EU's recent complaint filed with the World Trade Organization (WTO). The Chinese Ministry of Commerce announced on Monday that communication channels with the EU remain \"always open,\" emphasizing the importance of collaboration in resolving trade disputes.
On January 20, China received a formal consultation request from the EU concerning judicial rulings on standard essential patent disputes. The EU alleges that certain Chinese court decisions restrict European companies from protecting their patents, prompting the WTO complaint filed on Monday.
In response, the Ministry of Commerce highlighted China's adherence to WTO rules and its commitments upon accession. \"China has consistently improved legislation and law enforcement related to the protection of intellectual property rights,\" the ministry stated, noting that these efforts have been widely recognized on the global stage.
The ministry underscored China's dedication to addressing the matter in accordance with WTO procedures, expressing confidence in safeguarding its legitimate rights and interests. \"We will handle subsequent matters following WTO rules and remain committed to constructive engagement with the EU,\" the statement added.
The dispute centers on standard essential patents (SEPs), which are critical for ensuring interoperability and compatibility in industries such as telecommunications and technology. The EU's concerns reflect the complexities of global IPR enforcement and the challenges multinational corporations face in different legal jurisdictions.
This development comes amid broader trade discussions between China and the EU, highlighting the significance of intellectual property protection in fostering innovation and economic growth. Both parties have expressed a commitment to uphold fair trade practices and strengthen cooperation to resolve disputes.
As the world's second-largest economy, China's role in global trade continues to be pivotal. By maintaining open communication channels with the EU, China demonstrates its willingness to engage in multilateral dialogue, which is essential for addressing complex international trade issues.
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China says it's open to communication with EU on intellectual property
cgtn.com
