Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the transformation of Chinese companies from being "the world's factory" to becoming "innovation laboratories" that empower global markets through intellectual property (IP) protection and overseas expansion [1][2]. Group 1: Importance of Intellectual Property in Overseas Expansion - Intellectual property (IP) is essential for Chinese companies to gain access to overseas markets, with a focus on proactive IP layout before entering new markets [3][4]. - Companies like Great Wall Motors have strategically applied for nearly 3,000 overseas patents to mitigate infringement risks and establish competitive advantages [3]. - The rise of IP "going out" is crucial for maintaining brand value and avoiding issues like trademark squatting, which has previously affected companies like Hisense and Luckin Coffee [3][5]. Group 2: Progress and Trends in Intellectual Property "Going Out" - In the first half of the year, China saw a 12.7% increase in PCT international patent applications and a 23.2% increase in Hague design applications [6]. - Chinese brands are valued at approximately $1.76 trillion, ranking second globally, indicating a strong presence in the international market [6]. - The focus on green technologies has led to a significant increase in PCT applications, with 6,356 applications in 2024, 2.3 times that of 2020 [7]. Group 3: Mechanisms and Models for Intellectual Property Management - Companies like CATL are exploring technology licensing models, generating significant revenue through IP, with expectations for continued growth [8]. - The development of standard essential patents (SEPs) is a priority for companies like Huawei, which aims to influence global standards and protect innovations [9][10]. - The establishment of patent pools is being encouraged to facilitate cross-licensing and reduce transaction costs, enhancing compliance and risk management [10]. Group 4: Future Directions and Global Integration - As China's industrial structure shifts from labor-intensive to technology-intensive, the role of IP as a strategic resource becomes increasingly important [11]. - China has actively engaged in international IP agreements, enhancing its role as a key player in global IP governance, with over 200 active cooperation agreements [11]. - The total import and export value of IP usage fees in China increased from 319.44 billion yuan to 398.71 billion yuan from 2020 to 2024, reflecting a steady growth rate of 5.7% [11].

Core Insights - The article emphasizes the importance of intellectual property (IP) for Chinese companies expanding into international markets, highlighting that IP protection is essential for innovation and market access [1][3][5]. Group 1: Intellectual Property and Market Expansion - Chinese companies are increasingly recognizing the necessity of applying for patents overseas to gain market access and mitigate risks associated with international trade [3][4]. - Companies like Great Wall Motors have adopted a proactive approach by securing core IP rights 18-24 months before entering foreign markets, resulting in nearly 3,000 overseas patents [3][6]. - The rise in PCT international patent applications and Hague design applications from China indicates a shift from being a manufacturing hub to an innovation leader [2][6]. Group 2: Competitive Advantage through IP - The article notes that IP can enhance brand value and competitive advantage, as seen in cases where Chinese companies faced challenges due to trademark infringements abroad [3][5]. - High-tech firms are increasingly leading the charge in IP development, with Huawei investing over 20% of its revenue in R&D, resulting in significant innovation [6][9]. - The success of companies like Yushu Technology, which won a global IP award, underscores the growing recognition of Chinese firms in the global IP landscape [2][6]. Group 3: Trends in IP Protection and Litigation - Chinese companies have improved their ability to handle IP disputes, with a reported win rate of over 70% in overseas litigation since 2024 [7][8]. - The number of PCT applications for green low-carbon technologies has surged, reflecting China's commitment to innovation in strategic emerging industries [7][8]. Group 4: New Business Models and IP Monetization - Companies are exploring new business models, such as technology licensing, to monetize their IP assets, as demonstrated by CATL's revenue generation from IP [8][10]. - The establishment of patent pools is becoming a strategic move for companies to facilitate cross-licensing and reduce transaction costs [10][11]. Group 5: Global IP Governance and Cooperation - China's integration into the global IP framework has strengthened its position as a key player in international IP governance, with over 200 cooperation agreements in place [11][12]. - The growth in IP usage fees from 319.4 billion to 398.7 billion yuan from 2020 to 2024 reflects China's increasing role in the global IP economy [11][12].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the innovative "try before you pay" model for technology transfer between universities and small to medium enterprises (SMEs), highlighting its benefits in reducing costs and risks for companies while promoting the commercialization of research成果 [1][5][18] Group 1: Technology Transfer Challenges - Companies face high costs and risks when purchasing patents, often leading to reluctance in engaging with universities for technology transfer [2][3] - Many technological achievements remain unused due to difficulties in pricing and market visibility, resulting in a disconnect between research institutions and industry needs [3][4] - The lengthy negotiation processes and complex valuation procedures hinder effective collaboration between enterprises and research institutions [3][4] Group 2: Benefits of "Try Before You Pay" Model - The "try before you pay" model allows companies to test technologies before committing to purchase, reducing the financial burden and enabling better assessment of technology applicability [5][6] - This model has led to successful collaborations, such as the partnership between Zhejiang Yuntai Textile Co. and Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, resulting in improved production efficiency and reduced product returns [16][17] - The approach has been adopted widely, with over 440 patents licensed to SMEs in Beijing alone, demonstrating its effectiveness in fostering innovation [5][18] Group 3: Risk Mitigation Strategies - To address concerns about payment defaults, regions like Xi'an have introduced risk management mechanisms, including financing guarantees and insurance for technology transfer agreements [7][9] - The introduction of patent implementation insurance provides additional security for both parties, ensuring that licensors are compensated even if licensees face financial difficulties [9][11] - The establishment of a comprehensive service platform in Shaanxi aims to streamline the technology transfer process, enhancing the efficiency of matching supply and demand [17][18] Group 4: Long-term Collaboration Models - The "try before you pay" model is evolving into a "transfer then equity" approach, where companies can convert part of their patent fees into equity, fostering long-term partnerships [15] - This model allows for shared growth and continuous improvement of technologies, benefiting both the technology providers and the companies utilizing the innovations [15][16] - The establishment of patent pools and industry alliances enhances the availability of technologies for SMEs, facilitating easier access to innovations [17]