China Plans Higher Penalties for IP Infringers by Next Year

China released plans to strengthen intellectual property protections, including tougher penalties for lawbreakers and assistance to the nation’s companies operating overseas.

The National Intellectual Property Administration said its 133 proposals, released Monday, will be implemented by the end of 2021.

The document promises to raise punitive damages and increase compensation though doesn’t include details. The plan won’t represent concrete legislation until the State Council, China’s chief administrative authority, approves it, said Hank Leung, a partner in the Hong Kong office of Bird and Bird.

The timing of the release is likely in part to reassure the U.S. that Beijing is ...