China sets out copyright plan for 2026–2030 with AI training rules

China’s National Copyright Administration has published a copyright development plan for the 15th Five-Year Plan period, covering 2026 to 2030. Released on 7 September 2026, the plan outlines measures covering the legal framework, enforcement, and the use of emerging technologies.

The plan sets a target of 9.5 million works registered annually by 2030, up from 7.49 million in 2025. It also calls for the registration process to be standardised to improve efficiency.

Copyright regulation relating to big data, blockchain, and artificial intelligence is identified as an area requiring updates. The plan proposes developing a fair-use system for AI training data, with the stated aim of balancing innovation and the protection of creators’ rights. It also includes measures concerning online literature, gaming, audiovisual content, and foundational and industrial software.

For enforcement, the plan proposes fast-track channels for copyright disputes involving e-commerce platforms, trade fairs, cross-border transactions, and licensing and import-export activities. It also calls for greater commercial use of copyright through exhibitions and trade events.

At the international level, China plans to continue participating in bilateral and multilateral negotiations on copyright rules. The plan also refers to domestic legislation and treaty work concerning the protection of folklore and works of intangible cultural heritage.

The plan follows an amended judicial interpretation by the Supreme People’s Court on civil copyright disputes, issued in August and effective from 1 September.