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Understanding China's New Franchise Regulations
The new franchise regulations recently issued by China's State Council became effective on May 1, 2007. Shortly after their promulgation, MOFCOM, the ministry that has authority to interpret and implement the regulations, issued two implementation guidelines, namely the Administration Rules on Commercial Franchise Filing and the Administration Rules on Commercial Franchise Information Disclosure. The regulations are intended not only to provide presale disclosure to prospective franchisees, but also to restrict use of franchising to legitimate business operators. Moreover, the regulations seek to gather statistical data on the scope of franchise activities in China through a franchise registration process.
These regulations reflect a more permanent regime of regulating franchising in China, and they were preceded by the rather controversial 'Franchise Measures' promulgated by MOFCOM effective Feb. 1, 2005. A particular concern for foreign franchisors with the prior franchise measures was a requirement to have two company-owned units operating in China for one year before becoming able to obtain government approval to franchise (the so-called 'two plus one' requirement), and this requirement was said to apply even to companies that had existing franchising systems in China. This was the government's effort to weed out disreputable operators, but it also caused concerns for legitimate businesses. The new franchise regulations take a less restrictive approach to franchising in China, but still leave much to be desired.
New York's Latest Cybersecurity Commitment
On Aug. 9, 2023, Gov. Kathy Hochul introduced New York's inaugural comprehensive cybersecurity strategy. In sum, the plan aims to update government networks, bolster county-level digital defenses, and regulate critical infrastructure.
Law Firms are Reducing Redundant Real Estate by Bringing Support Services Back to the Office
A trend analysis of the benefits and challenges of bringing back administrative, word processing and billing services to law offices.
Bit Parts
Summary Judgment Denied Defendant in Declaratory Action by Producer of To Kill a Mockingbird Broadway Play Seeking Amateur Theatrical Rights
How AI Has Affected PR
When we consider how the use of AI affects legal PR and communications, we have to look at it as an industrywide global phenomenon. A recent online conference provided an overview of the latest AI trends in public relations, and specifically, the impact of AI on communications. Here are some of the key points and takeaways from several of the speakers, who provided current best practices, tips, concerns and case studies.