In 2024, Quanzhou Guoguang Software Development Co., Ltd., an independent technology enterprise specializing in high-security passive electronic lock systems, entered into a procurement agreement with a subsidiary of one of China’s state-owned energy conglomerates, ranked among the Fortune Global 500.
The project involved supplying advanced passive electronic lock solutions developed through over a decade of independent research and technological innovation, earning multiple national patents and international awards. However, during the project execution, the Applicant faced escalating coercion from the state-affiliated purchaser, including demands to surrender full source codes, backend control systems, encryption algorithms, and proprietary technical designs — conditions that vastly exceeded standard commercial norms and undermined fundamental intellectual property rights.
The procurement agreement included coercive clauses mandating the unconditional transfer of intellectual property developed during contract execution, and granted the purchaser the unilateral authority to determine alleged information security "breaches," imposing severe financial penalties exceeding 20% of the total contract value for non-compliance.
At the heart of this resistance is Mr. Fu Chaoyi, founder of Guoguang Software, an entrepreneur and inventor who firmly believes:
that intellectual property rights are sacred and must be protected;
that technological innovation must remain independent, free from state coercion or appropriation;
and that fairness, rule of law, and respect for private innovation are essential pillars of a just society.
Mr. Fu Chaoyi’s open resistance to the coerced surrender of his intellectual achievements was interpreted as political dissent. As a result:
Project payments were withheld;
Contract termination and legal threats were issued;
Blacklisting across industry sectors was orchestrated;
Persistent intimidation created credible fears of arbitrary detention, unlawful asset seizures, and political retaliation.
Facing systemic oppression and lacking any viable legal remedy within China’s judicial system, Mr. Fu was forced to flee and seek international protection.
This case exemplifies the grave threats faced by entrepreneurs who challenge authoritarian encroachments on fundamental rights. The Applicant respectfully seeks asylum under the 1951 Refugee Convention, based on credible and well-founded fears of political persecution stemming from his defense of intellectual freedom and property rights.
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