Bridgestone Corp. wins patent suit against Chinese tire maker

Chinese companies have a reputation for flaunting their intellectual property rights in such a way that it often attracts attention in the business world. Various media outlets have covered these incidents, such as the recent ExtremeTech story detailing how a Chinese website allows iPhone users to download free pirated apps. But while piracy may be widespread, that doesn't mean businesses have no recourse when their intellectual property is misused.

On Monday, Bridgestone Corp., the Tokyo-based makers of Bridgestone automobile tires, won a patent infringement suit against a rival Chinese tire manufacturer in a Qingdao court, according to a story on TireBusiness.com. 

Bridgestone alleged that Qingdao Genco Industrial Group Co. Ltd. illegally copied one of the company's patented bus and truck tire patterns—specifically the designs of the grooves the grip the road. Bridgestone believes that Qingdao Genco took the designs from images found in a catalog.

"The Bridgestone Group will continue working to maintain and enhance the value of its brands by taking the necessary actions to protect its trade secrets and intellectual property," Bridgestone officials said in a press release.

This is not the first time Bridgestone has taken a Chinese firm to court over patent infringement. In 2011, the company won a similar suit against Guangming Tyre Group Co. Ltd., which it accused of stealing truck tire designs.

Intellectual property theft is a crime that can do serious harm to businesses. For large companies, this could mean significant profit losses, while smaller operations could be forced to shut down all together due to lack of business. Local business who want to protect their patents in court should consult with a Phoenix small business attorney.

Categorised in: Intellectual Property Law

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