What Is a Trademark? A trademark is a symbol, word, phrase, or design that identifies and distinguishes the source of goods or services. It helps consumers recognize the brand behind a product or service. For example, the Nike "swoosh" logo or the phrase "Just Do It" are trademarks. They tell customers that the product comes from Nike and not another company. Key Features of Trademarks Purpose: Protect brand identity and prevent confusion in the marketplace. Scope: Covers log

On 22 December 2025 the Standing Committee of China’s National People’s Congress finally read the long-anticipated Trademark Law Revision Draft. the Standing Committee of China’s National People’s Congress The 84-article bill is not a cosmetic touch-up; it is a surgical re-design of how brands are born, policed and punished on the mainland. Expected to take effect on 1 November 2026 , it will touch every foreign company that manufactures, sells or licenses in the People’s Rep

On 3 December 2025, China’s National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA) released the Guideline on the Protection of Foreign Geographical Indications in China (2025).This article distills that official guidance and combines it with frontline practitioner experience to provide overseas associations, government authorities, and exporters with a step-by-step roadmap for obtaining GI protection in China—from zero to certificate issuance. The original Chinese guideline ca

Intro: The Launch of CNIPA's New Trademark Filing Portal On 20 October 2025, China’s National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA) officially launched its new online trademark filing portal. This marks the most significant system upgrade in over a decade. The revamp aims to enhance convenience, security, and overall user experience for online trademark services. It better meets the practical needs of applicants. The platform introduces a new user management system. Th

For companies expanding internationally, trademark protection is more than just a legal formality—it is an essential safeguard for brand value and market presence. Both China and the United States operate robust trademark systems, but they are built on very different legal philosophies. These differences directly affect how rights are acquired, how applications are handled, and how enforcement works in practice. As a trademark agency working with international clients more th