The Hill Opinion: A quiet erosion of American patent rights, by Robert L. Stoll
This post originally appeared in The Hill on December 17, 20115
In response to the “smartphone wars” around the globe and emboldened by unfounded arguments that patents do not spur innovation, China and South Korea are quietly implementing antitrust policies that may require U.S. leaders in the industry to cheaply license their portfolios to domestic competitors in those countries.
These types of actions are taking place under the guise of ensuring that technology standards are properly implemented and available in the global marketplace. However, when taken together, they signal a concerning trend by protectionist-minded foreign governments to undermine American patent rights, putting American companies at risk.