BEIJING - China's Supreme People's Court (SPC) has issued a circular on proper handling of civil and commercial cases to boost healthy development of private investment.

The circular stresses equal legal protection for all sectors of the economy as well as the rights of all market and investment entities.

The SPC has called for tougher punishments for violations of intellectual property rights and urged prohibiting the abuse of dominant market positions in accordance with the law, according to the circular.

Private undertakings are encouraged to raise funds through multiple channels, said the document, adding that the courts will protect private financial innovations and crack down on illegal fundraising.

The circular also stressed that coercive measures, including detention as well as seizing and freezing assets, should be used with caution, in a bid to minimize undue influence over normal business operations.