Ron Kirk’s office released its "Special 301 Report," which scrutinizes global intellectual property rights protection and enforcement. Countries that are found to have unfair or ineffective policies are placed on a blacklist, known as a "Priority Watch List."
Ron Kirk said, "We are seriously concerned about China’s implementation of ‘indigenous innovation’ policies that may unfairly disadvantage U.S. IPR holders. Procurement preferences and other measures favoring ‘indigenous innovation’ could severely restrict market access for American technology and products."
Kirk’s comments on China come ahead of a high-level meeting due at the end of Maywhere U.S. leaders met o discuss economic strategies with Chinese leaders.
The Office of the United States Trade Representative publishes the "Priority Watch List" and a "Watch List" annually as required by law.
The Wall Street Journal states the 2010 report notes that China is continuing to have severe problems regarding piracy and counterfeiting. This is the sixth consecutive year China was included on the blacklist.