All research in China is publicly shared. And while it is encouraged by the CCP is not demanded by law. It's a cultural fact and any entity in China can learn about R&D done by any entity, no matter if state owned or public owned, provided it is not classified as a secret.
Taking this precept down, they don't care about IP. If one Chinese company makes a product, in a few weeks you can find lots of different Chinese companies selling the same product on Aliexpress. Some of better quality, some cheaper, some with added functionality some with less functionality.
If you are to give your hardware design to a Chinese company and order a heavy lot you might have a good deal. But if your product is kind of successful, you shouldn't wonder if you see a lot of alternatives offered on Aliexpress by seemingly increasing unknown companies for a good rebate.
Taking this precept down, they don't care about IP. If one Chinese company makes a product, in a few weeks you can find lots of different Chinese companies selling the same product on Aliexpress. Some of better quality, some cheaper, some with added functionality some with less functionality.
If you are to give your hardware design to a Chinese company and order a heavy lot you might have a good deal. But if your product is kind of successful, you shouldn't wonder if you see a lot of alternatives offered on Aliexpress by seemingly increasing unknown companies for a good rebate.