UBM files lawsuit against China Game Publishers Association and Howell International Trade Fair Limited

SAN FRANCISCO -- United Business Media (UBM), organizers of the Game Developers Conference(R) (GDC), has filed a lawsuit against China GDC (CGDC) organizers China Game Publishers Association and Howell International Trade Fair Limited for unfair competition and false advertising. UBM has requested that CGDC organizers immediately cease its illegal acts, offer a public apology, lift their influence on the local industry, and compensate for all corresponding economic losses.

With more than 20 years of history, GDC is the most renowned professional conference under UBM and the world's largest conference for game industry professionals. Yearly events that target game developers in the online, console, and mobile sectors are held in cities across Europe, Asia, and the US. As of 2009, there are five events under the GDC brand, including: GDC, GDC Canada, GDC Europe, GDC Austin, and GDC China.

UBM is pursuing legal actions against CGDC for unlawful infringement of rights. CGDC has not only caused public misconception with false propaganda and commercial defamation of UBM and GDC China 2009, but the China Game Publishers Association has also issued letters to relevant industry enterprises and individuals preventing them from participating in GDC China 2009. These series of actions have negatively influenced the industry and led to serious repercussions.

UBM's decision to turn to legal actions is not only based on its determination to safeguard its rights, but also to raise public awareness, set a positive example for the industry, and promote fair business and equal competition.