Foreign entrepreneurs waste thousands on rejected China trademark applications. Learn the exact reasons CNIPA rejects marks — from relative conflicts to absolute grounds — and how to fix them before filing.

A common misconception among cross-border businesses: "Once my trademark appears in the China Trademark Database with a certificate, my brand is safe." Reality check: A significant volume of infringement operates as "ghosts" — completely invisible in public records, not directly similar on paper, and not obvious cybersquatting. Yet through distorted use, combined use, cross-category infiltration, and covert online operations, these infringers quietly divert customers, dilute

How Foreigners Can Legally Buy and Transfer a Trademark in China？ China is the world’s largest e-commerce market—and owning a Chinese trademark is essential for brand protection, platform verification, customs protection, and stopping infringement. The good news? Foreign individuals and companies can easily purchase and transfer trademarks in China, even without a local entity. This guide walks you through what you can buy, how the process works, required documents, cost, tim

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

A European consumer goods company once held a valuable trademark in China—a brand it had spent years building online. After relocating its Shanghai office, the company forgot to update its address with the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA). Six months later, a local competitor filed a non-use cancellation. CNIPA mailed the official notice to the old address on record, as required by law. The letter never reached the company, no response was filed, an

What to Do If Someone Files Your Trademark？A Practical Guide for Foreign Brand Owners to Oppose a Trademark Squatting Application in China. In today’s rapidly evolving global marketplace, safeguarding your brand has never been more vital. Picture this: an individual or company in China files a trademark application for a brand you own, despite having no connection to you or your business. This situation can be frustrating and concerning, but there are clear steps you can take