China Publishes New Law on Intangible Heritages

2011/04/20

Chinese President Hu Jintao signed Presidential Order No. 42 to promulgate the Law on Intangible Cultural Heritages on February 25. In its attachment, the Law expressly states that any use of intangible cultural heritages which involve IP rights shall be governed by relevant laws and administrative regulations. In case of any conflict between the Law and other laws or administrative regulations with respects to traditional medicines and traditional handicrafts and arts, such other laws or administrative regulations shall prevail. Reportedly, the draft Law has passed the 16th Session, 18th Session and 19th Session of the NPC Standing Committee. The Law will not be effective until June 1.
 
(China IP)