BEIJING - China has extended intellectual property rights (IPR) protection aid nationwide with more than 1,000 institutions, according to the country's IPR authorities.

China has been highlighting the role of IPR protection aid in safeguarding the rights of the public and innovators by making these institutions reach most regions across the country, said the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA).

To date, a total of 194 colleges and 386 social organizations have participated in providing assistance on IPR related issues, with support from around 5,100 experts and 5,200 volunteers.

In 2020, IPR aid institutions nationwide handled more than 33,000 applications and provided consulting services 43,000 times.

Besides these institutions, the CNIPA also facilitates online services on IPR issues to better serve the public.