The legal framework for technology development and technology import in China

The Chinese legal system was poorly developed in the Imperial era and remai ned so in the People's Republic until the process of reform began in the 19 80s. The authorities now recognize that a market economy requires the rule of law and that technology development and technology import in particular need firm legal foundations. Significant steps have been taken to protect t echnology as intellectual property and to support technology import. Nevert heless, an extended period of institution-building will be needed before th e legal framework can be regarded as satisfactory. Furthermore, the authori ties' desire to control technology import through regulations may restrict the efficiency with which the country acquires the know-how which it needs.