Malta and China have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) which aims to increase cooperation on intellectual property matters between the two nations.

　　The deal will focus on sharing information on IP laws and policies in both jurisdictions. The two countries will also assist each other in training personnel and organising future meetings, including joint seminars.

　　Malta’s Ministry for the Economy, Investment and Small Business signed the deal with China’s IP office, the State Intellectual Property Office (SIPO), on Monday, July 6.

　　Chris Cardona, minister for the economy, investment and small business, said: “As technology develops we are experiencing novel forms of intellectual property which deserve protection and require legislation allowing for their exploitation.”

　　He added: “I have full confidence that ... the MOU signing will mark the beginning of a fruitful and valuable cooperation in the area of IP and I look forward to further enhanced cooperation with SIPO for the benefit of our countries.”