TRADEMARK COUNTRIES

Being one of the biggest economies globally, the Chinese market offers unlimited opportunity for manufacturing, sales and global export. Protecting trade marks in China as early as possible is imperative to prevent production of counterfeits. Since China follows the 'first-to-file' principle, filing your trade mark application in China as early as possible should have utmost priority to protect your brand and business.

Why Register Your Trade Mark in China?

A trade mark registration in China gives you:

• Exclusive rights in China to use your brand for your registered goods or services.
• The legal tools to stop copycats and counterfeiters in China.
• The ability to take action in Chinese Courts to enforce your rights.
• Border protection by recording your trade mark with Chinese Customs to stop counterfeits at the Chinese border.
• The right to use the ® symbol within China, showing that your brand is officially protected.

In short, a trade mark in China is one of the most valuable assets your business can own.

How the Process Works

We guide you through every step of the trade mark process in China:

1. Search & Advice – We check if your brand can be registered and is clear to use in China.
2. Application Filing – We prepare and lodge your application with the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA).
3. Examination & Publication – We manage status updates, examiner reports, objections, and possible oppositions.
4. Registration – We provide you with the CNIPA registration certificate and advise you on proper trade mark use in China.
5. Renewal – We remind you when renewal is due each ten (10) years.
6. Ongoing Support – Our local attorneys serve as your attorney on record in China, ensuring you receive all official correspondence and English translation.

What You Should Know

• Use is important: While you don’t need to show use when filing, you must use your trade mark in commerce to keep it valid. After a 3-year grace period, other traders may apply for full or partial cancellation based on non-use.
• Strict examination rules: The CNIPA carefully examines new trade mark applications to avoid confusion with existing Chinese brands. Both English and Chinese trade marks will be considered by the CNIPA.
• Chinese trade marks: Consider protecting your brand in both English and Chinese characters.
• Sub-Classes: China has adopted a unique sub-class system to classify goods and services. The Sub-Classes subdivide each of the 45 classes of the Nice Classification into smaller, more specific categories, requiring trade mark applicants to precisely select the correct sub-classes to gain appropriate protection.
• Foreign applicants: If you are outside of China, you must appoint a Chinese attorney to represent you before the CNIPA, manage your application and all official correspondence.

Why Work With Us

We specialise in helping businesses protect their brands internationally, including in China. From the initial clearance search to long-term brand strategy, we make the process clear, efficient, and strategic so you can focus on growing your business with confidence.