Chinese Civil Code Comes into Force from January 1, 2021

On May 28, 2020, the civil code of the People’s Republic of China (hereinafter referred to as the “Civil Code”) was adopted by the third session of the 13th National People’s Congress, which will come into force on January 1, 2021. The civil code is a significant achievement in the construction of socialist rule of law in the new era, which is of milestone significance.

This Law is formulated in accordance with the Constitution of the People’s Republic of China for the purposes of protecting the lawful rights and interests of the persons of the civil law, regulating civil-law relations, maintaining social and economic order, meet the needs for developing socialism with Chinese characteristics, and carrying forward the core socialist values.

First, focus on the protection of property rights and personality rights, and create a market-oriented, legal and international business environment. We should integrate the concept of civil code rights protection into all aspects of trial execution, comprehensively protect people’s personal rights, property rights and other legitimate rights and interests.

Second, focus on the protection of intellectual property rights and serve the development driven by innovation and the construction of a powerful country in science and technology. We should strengthen the judicial protection of intellectual property rights in key core technologies, key fields and emerging industries, accelerate the implementation of the punitive damages system for intellectual property rights and achieve results.

Third, focus on ecological protection and boost the construction of beautiful China. We should accurately apply the provisions of the civil code on green principles and green clauses, resolutely implement the provisions on punitive damages for intentional environmental pollution and ecological damage.

Fourth, focus on the normalization of epidemic prevention and control, we should combine the implementation of the civil code with the prevention and control of the normalized epidemic situation.

Fifth, focus on the new development concept and serve the high-quality development of economy. In accordance with the law and provide high-level judicial services for regional coordinated development.

Sixth, focus on vigorously promoting the socialist core values and serving the construction of a society ruled by law. We should adhere to the combination of rule of law and rule of virtue.

Seventh, focus on the new demands and expectations of the digital era and serve the development of the digital economy. In line with the rapid development trend of digital technology.