China tightens layout-design protections for integrated circuits

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China revised regulations to strengthen protection for integrated-circuit layout designs, raising registration standards and allowing punitive damages for serious infringement. Signed by Premier Li Qiang on July 23 and published by national agencies, the rules take effect on October 15 and require applicants to declare originality, identify original elements, and show genuine creative activity. Regulators can reject weak filings and courts may calculate damages on rights-holder losses or infringer gains. The rules also clarify licensing, transfer and collateral use and require leaders to reward eligible personnel. The changes aim to safeguard domestic chip know-how amid U.S. restrictions on chip design technology.

China will enforce stricter layout-design rules with punitive damages