Campaigns to focus on China intellectual property theft

Intellectual property theft by Chinese companies, a huge concern for the technology and creative arts industries, will be a major campaign focus this week with GOP presidential hopeful Mitt Romney planning to hit the Obama administration even harder on its record on the issue.

Romney adviser Ed Gillespie, on a press call, returned repeatedly to the topic of China even when asked about other matters. He insisted that between intellectual property violations and unfair subsidies for Chinese auto and tech companies, the problem has cost 2 million American jobs. “We have a plan to address China cheating in the international marketplace,” Gillespie said. “The president’s failed policies have been to not stand up to China. … Temporary tariffs are not a solution. We need a more comprehensive plan on China.” Gillespie didn’t offer specifics.