More detail in patent law aids in enforcement

China's newly approved amendment to its Patent Law contributed greatly to Goodbaby Group's victory over Baobaohao Co in its recent infringement case, according to a noted intellectual property expert.

"Goodbaby Group provided integrated information in its application for the design patent that includes the request itself, photographs and a description of its design work," said Cao Xinming, professor at the Intellectual Property Research Center of Zhongnan University of Economics and Law.

"Although that was not required in the old Patent Law, Goodbaby made a very smart move because all these details were written into the amended law late last year."

"The amendment places higher demands on patent applications, so manufacturers should do more research work before applying for new patents," Cao said.

The amended law is a significant milestone in the development of China's patent system because more detail in patent applications will help improve the efficiency of patent examination and the approval process, while making it easier for authorities to settle patent-related disputes, Cao said.

(China Daily 06/22/2009 page9)