China’s proposed patent screening for SME support reflects broader shift from volume to quality and commercial value

Context: China’s “Little Giant” designation helps innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) access government support, with patent-related eligibility criteria tightened in April 2026 (January 4, 2026 MIIT SME recognition rules). China is also cracking down on abnormal filings (December 21, 2023 CNIPA regulations on patent application conduct), and shifting patent incentives from volume toward quality and commercial use (October 17, 2023 State Council General Office patent commercialization action plan). Reflecting this broader shift, Via Licensing Alliance president Kevin Mack has observed a growing emphasis on the quality and technical contribution of Chinese patents in licensing discussions (October 2, 2026 ip fray article).