Abstract: Describes the patentability of business methods under Chinese law. Considers excluded subject matter, the technical requirements for inventions to be patentable, the examination procedures, and how the Chinese approach to business method patents compares with that of the European Patent Office. Reports on patents applied for and awarded in the banking sector.

　　Keywords: Business method; China; Patentability

　　说明：此文发表在< european intellectual property review>, ISSN 0142-0461，No.10. p.412-419, (10/2008)。