Transferring Environmental Technologies to China

Abstract A discussion is presented on the key issues in the transfer of environmental technologies to China and more broadly South East (SE) Asia. It identifies constraints to this technology transfer, and in particular, the paper deals with the mechanisms involved including research and technology development and the major (but poorly documented) role of the private sector. The principle constraints to this technology transfer relate to an understanding of the legal context, limited financing, lax enforcement of intellectual property laws by the Chinese government, and a lack of appreciation of inter-cultural issues by the transferring organization. The purpose of the paper is to provide guidance to environmental technology vendors, and other organizations, primarily from Australia, that intend to engage in technology transfer activities with China.