Chinese police at all levels will strike hard to prevent infringement of intellectual property rights during the Shanghai World Expo, officials from the Ministry of Public Security said on Tuesday.

The campaign will focus on counterfeiting of registered trademarks and patents, as well as violations of the intellectual rights of exhibitors, officials with the ministry said.

The production and sale of fake goods inside Expo venues, Shanghai city, major tourist areas and other places will be strictly prohibited.

The campaign will also strike blows against the production of fake food, cigarettes, alcohol, medicines, cosmetics and electrical appliances, the statement said.

A nationwide crackdown is due to be launched on April 22 to destroy pirated and illegal publications.

(Source: China Daily)