Suzhou recently issued local regulations dividing hi-tech enterprises in the city according to the number of their patents and patent applications.

Companies in the first category are those with a strong innovative capacity and detailed IPR protection schemes. The second category of companies includes those with limited capabilities in protecting and managing their own intellectual property rights. The third group of companies includes those with no patents.

The city will provide individualized support, including training and subsidies, according to the three categories.

(China Daily 06/01/2009 page9)