Prepared by SIPO and promulgated by the State Quality & Quarantine Supervision and Standardization Administration Committee, two standards concerning IP documentation and information came into force on June 1 2008.
The first standard is called: IP Documentation and Information – Essential Vocabulary (GB/T 21374-2008). This standard confirms, in basic language, terms frequently used in IP. It aims at resolving problems associated with inconsistencies in use of IP terms.
The essential vocabulary provides a unified expression for 105 terms in both English and Chinese, each followed with a standard Chinese explanation. It includes terms such as domain name, priority, geographical indication, prior art and embodiment. It is believed that the standard not only helps users to have a better understanding of IP documentation information, but will promote and facilitate communication and spreading information about IP.
The second standard is called: Intellectual Property Documentation and Information – Classification and Codes (GB/T 21373-2008). Each IP document is assigned a six digit code such as AB CD EF. AB is from 01 to 05 respectively represents the five main categories of IP: general, patent, trade mark, copyright and others. Each main category is sub-divided into different groups (CD), which is further divided into divisions (EF). Accordingly, documentation on patent administrative litigation is represented by 020405 (02 for patents, 0204 for patent examination and approval) whereas documentation on trade mark applications is represented by 030401 (03 for trade marks, 0304 for trade mark registration).
It is believed that this standard will help to build up an effective IP database, thus facilitating the processing, handling, exchange and use of IP documentation and information, which is important for the rapid development of the Chinese IP industry.
It took the relevant authorities six years to compile these standards. However these standards are only recommended, not compulsory, without any sanctions for their non-compliance.
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