Trademark registration in China

1) DESIGNATIONS REGISTRABLE AS A TRADEMARK

Characters, graphics, letters, numbers, three-dimensional symbols, colour combinations, sounds, and combinations of the above elements. 

2) THE REGISTRATION PROCESS

1. The Applicant files trademark registration application to China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA);

2. CNIPA proceed formality examination;

3. CNIPA proceed substantive examination;

4. CNIPA issue Notification of Refusal or Notification of Preliminary Approval followed by publication;

5. Filing Review of Refusal in case Notification of Refusal is issued;

6. Opposition is allowed if Notification of Preliminary Approval is issued;

7. Trademark Registration

3) AVAILABILITY OF ACCELERATED TRADEMARK REGISTRATION

No. 

4) TRADEMARK REGISTRATION TIMELINE

1. CNIPA proceed formality examination in around 2~3 weeks from the application filing date;

2. CNIPA complete substantive examination in 6 months from the application filing date;

3. CNIPA publish the trademark for opposition for 3 months if the trademark goes through the substantive examination smoothly;

4. CNIPA issue the Certificate of Registration within 1~2 months after publication.

5) TRADEMARK REGISTRATION DURATION AND RENEWAL

10 years. 

Renewal application may be filed within 12 months before the expiration date. There is 6 months grace period after the expiration date.

6) IS IT POSSIBLE TO USE A TRADEMARK WHILE REGISTRATION IS PENDING?

Yes. 

7) TERMS OF TRADEMARK USE

3 years.

8) METHODS OF PROTECTING THE RIGHT OF THE TRADEMARK OWNER

1. Strengthen daily trademark management;

2. File Administrative compliant;

3. File Litigation to Court;

4. File Customs recordal to seek for initiative protection;

5. File Complaint to Online sales platforms.

Authors: Claire Zhao, Milana Brmanova