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15 August 2017Copyright

Trump asks USTR to assess options over Chinese IP theft probe

US President Donald Trump has signed a memorandum asking the US trade representative (USTR) Robert Lighthizer to assess whether an investigation into Chinese IP theft is necessary.

Speaking at a press gathering yesterday, August 14, Trump said it’s his “responsibility to protect the American workers’ technology and industry from unfair and abusive actions”.

“We will combat the counterfeiting and piracy that destroys American jobs; we will enforce the rules of fair and reciprocal trade that formed the foundation of responsible commerce,” he stated.

“Ambassador Lighthizer, you are empowered to consider all available options at your disposal.”

As reported by WIPR earlier this month, several sources had stated to national newspapers that Trump was set to launch an investigation into alleged Chinese IP theft.

This was apparently after a report earlier this year where the Chinese government stated that it wants China to lead the way in technologies such as driverless cars and artificial intelligence by 2025.

The New York Times reported that there were concerns from the Trump administration that thefts of IP have been taking place.

It also stated that the Chinese government demanded that American companies cut the licensing fees that they charge for key patents and insisted companies set up joint ventures to do business in China.

“We will stand up to any country that unlawfully forces American companies to transfer valuable technology as a condition of market access,” Trump added yesterday.

“We will safeguard the patents, copyright, trademarks trade secrets and all the IP that is so vital to our security and prosperity, we will uphold our values, defend our workers and protect the innovations and creations that power our magnificent country.”

A statement from the White House after the announcement said Trump is simply “following through on his promise to the American people to protect their IP so they can benefit from their innovation”.

It added that the USTR will analyse issues raised by the President in the memorandum and consult with government agencies and advisory committees to determine if any action is appropriate.

“President Trump is not prejudging the inquiry and USTR will decide whether to launch a formal investigation and, if so, whether action should be taken and what that action would be,” the White House said.

Officials stated it could take up to a year to complete.

Soon after the announcement, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce released a statement saying it will “resort to all proper measures” to defend its rights.

“The US should cherish the current good trade ties and rapport with China, and any protectionist move will certainly damage bilateral economic relations and hurt the business interests of companies in both countries,” it stated.

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More on this story

Patents
17 August 2017   China has promised to improve IP protection for foreign investors as it seeks to build a better business environment for them.
Trademarks
10 November 2017   China’s customs agency has found more than 1,500 cases of IP-infringing goods exported to the US, according to a statement.
Copyright
13 December 2017   The EU, Japan and the US have united to combat market-distorting trade practices, such as forced technology transfer.