China to crack down on online piracy, counterfeit goods

BEIJING - China will launch a new round of crackdowns on intellectual property infringement and the production and sale of counterfeit goods, particularly in Internet-based crimes.

The nationwide campaign will focus on false or deceptive advertising online. Websites with illegal video and audio materials as well as illegal trade of counterfeit products will be banned, according to a circular issued by the State Council General Office.

Supervision and management will be strengthened over businesses including Internet service providers, domain name registration and information services, according to the circular posted on the central government's website on Monday.

The government will fight fake and inferior gasoline and diesel oil, agricultural products and drugs. Commercial secrets will be better protected, the circular said.

The campaign also targets infringement of trademark, copyright, and patent rights, as well as rights over new plant varieties, geographical indications and integrated circuit layout design.

The circular urged stepping up revision of relevant laws and regulations to facilitate the crackdown. Companies violating laws and regulations will be blacklisted.

China will widen consultations on intellectual property rights with the United States and European countries and will cooperate with other BRICS members (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) and countries along the Silk Road economic belt, the circular said.

The government will provide assistance to Chinese enterprises operating overseas to safeguard their intellectual property rights, it said.