China Trademark & IP Knowledge Hub

Foreign executives often ask: “Do we really need a Chinese company name before we even file the trademark?” The short answer is yes. In China’s first-to-file system, the characters you place on the enterprise registration form double as the default word mark squatters scan first. Skip that step, and you may spend two years and RMB 2 million reclaiming your own brand. Below is a field guide to picking, clearing, and locking down a Chinese name that sails through SAMR and CNIPA

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

When applying for a trademark in China, foreign applicants often wonder whether to work with a law firm or a trademark agency. Each option has its strengths. The right choice depends on your business needs, budget, and the complexity of your case. How to Choose the Right Partner Why Work with a Trademark Agency? Cost-Effective Solutions Trademark agencies generally provide more affordable services than law firms. With lower overhead costs and a focus on the registration proce