Seven locals who passed the 2009 national patent agent examination were certified and awarded 5,000 yuan each by the provincial intellectual property office in late May.

The national exam includes tests of general legal knowledge, patent law and patent agency practices.

Five entrants who passed individual subject tests were also awarded 1,500 yuan each.

The provincial government started a number of policies to develop expertise in intellectual property in 2009, especially for development of patent agencies.

The authorities offer training to future patent agents and provide awards to encourage intellectual property study.

(Source: China Daily)