Guangming Daily:
World IP Day was celebrated on April 26 this year, with the theme of "IP and Sports." With the scheduled opening of the Winter Olympics in China approaching, my question is about the protection of IP for the Olympic Games. Would you please provide an overview of the pertinent issues?
Shen Changyu:
Thank you. The theme of this year's IP Day was "Reach for the Gold: IP and Sports," which, by my view, is a high integration of IP culture and athletic spirit. It has created a general environment tailored to the Winter Olympics and Winter Paralympic Games scheduled to be hosted in China in 2022.
Actually, IP is closely related to sports, which can be exemplified by the massive adoption of new high-tech in sports fields, upgraded facilities and new materials, many of which are patented products. In addition, copyright protections are highly relevant in the rebroadcast of sports events, brands of sports products, and the ability to generate increased profits from trademark protections.
The protection of IP rights at the Olympic Games has always been a big concern of China. As early as 2002, we issued "Regulations on the Protection of Olympic Symbols," which was amended last year. Regarding the Winter Olympics, we have greatly endeavored to protect its IP rights since China won the bid. We have launched all-around and multi-dimensional protections of the patent, trademark and copyright of the emblem, as well as related symbols.
In the next stage, we'll focus on the IP protection of the Winter Olympics in two underscored aspects. First, we'll endeavor to protect the IP rights of its torch and mascot. Second, we'll establish a system, particularly in Beijing and Hebei provinces, to report on and prosecute any violations relevant to the Games. Meanwhile, we'll also make growing efforts to crack down on any infringements to ensure a splendid Winter Olympics. Thank you.
