IP in China: what investors need to know

With US President Donald Trump stepping up his rhetoric over the trade imbalance between China and the United States and Chinese Premier Li Keqiang responding by talking up the country's advances as a centre of technology innovation, intellectual property is in the spotlight. How do investors, tempted by China's hot startup scene, protect themselves and profit Consultant Damon Matteo, who advises companies on commercialising high-value innovations and IP assets, gives his perspective on China's IP regime.

Looking backward we see China reaching a nominal GDP second only to the US, built largely on the shoulders of its manufacturing prowess. Looking forward we see China moving swiftly to a cutting-edge...