Xinhua News Agency, Beijing, August 3rd. Premier Li Qiang recently signed an order of the State Council to announce the revised "Regulations on the Protection of Layout Designs of Integrated Circuits" (hereinafter referred to as the "Regulations"), which will come into effect on October 15, 2026.
The "Regulations" aim to protect the exclusive rights of integrated circuit layout design, encourage integrated circuit technology innovation, and promote scientific and technological development.The Regulations have 6 chapters and 54 articles in total. The main contents of the revision are as follows.
First, clarify the overall requirements.It is stipulated that the protection of integrated circuit layout designs should implement the strategic deployment of intellectual property rights of the party and the country, expand the scope of protection, and emphasize good faith.
The second is to improve the application and review procedures.Regulate false applications, refine material requirements, improve rejection and revocation procedures, and increase rights restoration procedures.
The third is to strengthen the protection of exclusive rights.Clarify the standards for defining the scope of rights and increase compensation for infringement.
The fourth is to promote the application of layout design.Strengthen public services, clarify reward and reward measures, improve transfer, licensing, and pledge requirements, and standardize the exercise of co-owners' rights.
