Invention patents are not for everyone: Developing less industrialized regions in China with ‘light’ intellectual property

Abstract

Intellectual property (IP) can be a main driver of regional technology innovation and economic development, but the IP needs of different regions vary. Invention patents have a significant influence on industrialized regions, especially new product and technological development in heavier industries. However, the cultivation of ‘light IP’ (designs, trademarks, copyrights, geographical indications, trade secrets, utility models, and new plant varieties) may be preferred over invention patents in regions rich in environmental resources and traditional culture, and where there is a desire to protect natural resources. Taking the green economic development of Lishui Prefecture in Zhejiang Province as a case study, the authors analyze how policies to encourage development and utilization of light IP enable the regional protection of the environment as well as economic growth. The approach of Lishui Prefecture is shown as an alternative development strategy to simply following central government-level advice to stimulate invention patents, and one that is useful for regions in China that are less industrialized but have rich natural resources.