Commercializing Technology in China: Navigating Pitfalls and Seizing Opportunity

With the Chinese government expending tremendous effort and funds to encourage technology innovation within China, the country is fast becoming competitive in many high-tech fields. However, with a shortage of homegrown research talent and other obstacles, demand for technologies from the United States and other Western countries remains high, presenting significant opportunities for U.S. companies and manufacturers interested in commercializing technologies through transfer, licensing, or other arrangements with Chinese companies.

However, despite recent improvements to China’s IP and technology transfer safeguards, companies doing business in China must exercise caution. Technology transactions can be risky and inefficient, and IP protection, enforcement, taxation, currency conversion, and repatriation also can present considerable challenges.

Specific topics to be covered include:

• Obstacles to technology transfers in China
• Application of import-export control regulations
• Mandatory provisions in any technology license agreement
• Key elements of a technology license, development, and transfer agreements
• Registration requirements in China
• U.S. and Chinese tax aspects of technology transfers
• IP protection and enforcement issues
• Repatriation of profits, payment methods, currency issues, and hedging strategies

Speakers

• Welcome and Introductions: Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce
• Julie Lee, Partner, Foley & Lardner LLP
• Andrew S. Baluch, Partner, Foley & Lardner LLP
• Beng Yeap, CGBP, Market Development Director – Asia Pacific, Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation
• Selig Sacks, Partner, Foley & Lardner LLP

There is no cost to participate in this program; however, pre-registration is required. To participate, please register here.

For more information, contact Jennifer Conley at jconley@foley.com or 312.832.4325.