Some countries already have strict rules, but they are the exception rather than the rule. Traditional Chinese medicine has been covered by a special patent law since 1993 and at the end of 1998, Chinese medicines were the subject of 9,900 patent applications, according to WIPO documents. He said the organization would also consider how to define those components of traditional knowledge in need of protection. It really signifies a desire to view the knowledge economy in a comprehensive and inclusive manner and not just as the Western knowledge economy but a knowledge economy which will include traditional knowledge,'' he said. He said it was unclear whether there would be binding rules or just guidelines for governments, companies and indigenous people.
International opinion is divided on the subject.
The United States says the existing system is adequate and there is no need for new rules. Most developing countries want tough controls. Europe's position lies somewhere between the two. Copyright 2001 Associated Press. All rights reserved.