[robomartin]

You make a fair point. However, I think the argument fails when we consider the destruction they have caused in the US and Europe by stealing IP. The typical mode of operation is that they go after any product or market that breaks a $5MM ARR (Annual Run Rate) with predatory intent. In other words, as any judge in the west is likely to say, ignorance of the law does not constitute justification.

There's another element of this which might refute the ignorance claim. It is estimated that approximately 750,000 people from China study abroad (US and Europe). In other words, in round numbers, perhaps ten million people over ten years. Another ten million or more actually work abroad. The point is that the claim of ignorance of IP laws in the US and Europe is likely false. The opaque and closed nature of their system makes it so that they can benefit and learn from stolen IP without suffering any consequences. This advances their industrial based and grows the economy while causing damage everywhere else. Not a good situation at all.