China seized 177 million pirated and smuggled audio-visual products and 6.99 million pieces of pirated computer software last year, the 15th year of the country's campaign to guard intellectual property rights.

At the same time, 34 disc production lines, 37.7 million pornographic publications and 15.2 million pirated textbooks and reference books were also been confiscated.

The figures were revealed at a televised meeting of the national working team against pornography and illegal publication yesterday in Beijing.

The meeting revealed a 2004 plan to continue targeting piracy and smuggling activities, in addition to the usual supervision of markets. Publication administrators around the country have been asked to pay close attention to corruption in the fight against smugglers and piraters this year.

"Measures should be taken to dig out those behind crime who provide asylum to smugglers and pirates, and remove the fortifications they have set up to make the piracy hard to eradicate,'' said Shi Zongyuan, deputy leader of the national team fighting pornography and illegal publications.

Corrupt officials conducting illegal deeds or participating in piracy and pornography will be severely punished according to law.

The publication administration will strengthen co-operation with border police and customs this year, targeting illegal activities across the eastern and southern borders.

And legal knowledge will be further promoted in communities, strengthening the masses' consciousness of resisting pirated audio-visual production and books.

At yesterday's meeting, 43 regional departments and 46 individuals have received awards for their devotion and contributions to the country's campaign against piracy.

(China Daily January 16, 2004)