Invention patent applications in China rose 24 percent to 653,000 filings last year, an indication that "quality-oriented policies have taken effect", Tian Lipu, commissioner of the State Intellectual Property Office, told a recent national IP conference in Beijing.

More difficult to acquire than other IP rights, such patents represent true inventions and innovative creation, said experts at the forum. About 217,000 were approved and granted last year.

"We encourage creators to value IP quality and efficiency rather than just pursuing quantity," Tian said.