I read with great interest your Viewpoint article titled “China brings flattery PN can do without” (Aug. 28, Page 6). I didn't realize the extent to which plagiarism and copyright violation in China have extended to the print and Web-based media.
D-M-E Co. has experienced similar situations in the mold technologies arena. Vendors in China have marketed products reputed to be “real D-M-E” that have never seen the inside of a D-M-E facility. Lest anyone think otherwise, this practice isn't unique to China. While attending Die Mould India several years ago, I learned that an Indian company not affiliated with our own venture there was making “genuine D-M-E” special mold bases. In this case, our “cease and desist” order seems to have worked.
Given the vast potential of emerging foreign markets and the price pressures all of us face back home, sourcing and manufacturing product overseas are indispensable to running a thriving, global operation. Along the way, though, organizations need to be extremely diligent in protecting their intellectual property — and the goodwill associated with their brands.
Thanks for keeping this issue in front of the industry.
Dave Lawrence
D-M-E Co.
Madison Heights, Mich.