On April 20, the main event of the 2026 National Intellectual Property Publicity Week was held in Beijing. Running from April 20 to 26, this year's campaign is themed "Strengthening IP Protection in Emerging Fields to Accelerate the Development of New Productive Forces."
Throughout the week, the campaign will highlight the important role of intellectual property in protecting inventions, promoting industrial innovation, encouraging creative expression, and building brands. A special focus will be placed on IP protection practices in emerging fields and the close connection between IP and people's daily lives.
Speaking at the main event, officials noted that China has made new progress in IP development, successfully concluding the 14th Five Year Plan period (2020-2025). With the rapid rise of emerging technologies and industries, there is a growing need for stronger IP protection in these fields. Improving relevant legal frameworks will be key to supporting high quality economic development.
In a video message, the Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization pointed out that this year's World IP Day theme is "IP and Sports: Ready, Set, Innovate!" He explained that patents, designs, trademarks, and copyright not only drive technological development in sports and help build brands, but also protect sports broadcasts and social media content. The protection and management of IP assets have become an essential part of the sports industry.
During the event, ten practical measures were announced to make IP services more accessible and business friendly. These include integrated processing, smart Q&A services, on demand examination, overseas protection support, and diversified dispute resolution. Representatives from emerging technology companies and an Olympic athlete jointly called for stronger IP protection in emerging fields.
Throughout the publicity week, government agencies and local authorities across the country will carry out awareness activities on IP, fostering a culture that respects knowledge, values innovation, upholds integrity and fair competition.
