All computers produced and sold in China must install authentic
software systems, spokesman for the National Copyright
Administration, Wang Ziqiang, said yesterday. Government
departments were especially required to purchase computers with
genuine software. .?
"As the operating system is necessary to a new computer, the
requirement at this time is specifically focused on this type of
software," Wang said.
No detailed list was given regarding the type of systems
required for installation.
According to a notice issued by three relevant central
government departments, computer manufacturers and retailers who
install pirate software will be punished.
The documents also noted that software manufacturers should
provide a favorable price to computer companies. Wang predicted
that the price of computers would not increase after the new policy
was adopted.
Computer manufacturers and software producers are required to
report their sales to the Ministry of Information?Industry
every year in February. Those who refuse to comply or provide false
figures will be exposed. .
As for government departments at various levels, they were
required by another notice to establish a separate fund for the
purchase of software other than the operating systems.
"These measures are to ensure that all software used on
government computers is authentic," Wang said.
Those computers with trademarks could be expected to have
authentic software, according to an industry spokesman. However,
those assembled by individuals were unlikely to carry appropriate
trademarks, added the spokesman.
(China Daily April 11, 2006)