> don't allow dies to be manufactured there because of the extent of IP Theft

What do you mean practically with intellectual property? Trademark is out, copyright as well, maybe trade secrets or patents? In case of a trade secret, don't share it with someone whom is able to compete with you. Regarding patents, IMO they've overused plus something artificially created. If China doesn't abide by patents, then maybe the short term financial benefit should've been investigated a little bit more.

Japan improved greatly (many years ago) using somewhat the same method (copy + improve) and seems they're respected for that.