Trademark Defense

China Trademark Opposition

During CNIPA's 3-month publication window, file an opposition to block a conflicting trademark before it registers. Act fast — this window closes permanently.

File an Opposition
3mo
Publication Window
30d
Filing Deadline
85%
Success Rate

Grounds for Opposition

CNIPA recognizes several valid grounds for opposing a trademark application.

Prior Rights

You hold an earlier registration or well-known mark that is identical or confusingly similar to the published application.

Bad Faith Filing

The applicant filed with no intent to use, or preemptively registered your brand name knowing your reputation. Common with trademark squatters.

Geographical Indication

The mark misleads about the origin of goods, violating China's geographical indication protections.

Descriptiveness

The mark is generic, descriptive, or lacks distinctiveness and should not be registered by any party.

Public Interest

The mark is deceptive, contrary to socialist morality, or detrimental to public interest per Trademark Law Article 10.

Agent/Representative

The applicant is or was your agent or representative and filed your mark without authorization, violating Article 15.

Opposition Timeline

The opposition process in China typically takes 12-18 months from filing to final decision.

Evidence Gathering

Collect proof of prior use, registration certificates, brand reputation evidence, and market presence documentation.

File Opposition

Submit formal opposition with CNIPA within the 3-month publication period. Late filings are not accepted.

Exchange of Arguments

Both parties submit written arguments and supplementary evidence. CNIPA may schedule hearings for complex cases.

CNIPA Decision

CNIPA issues a final ruling. Either party may appeal to the Beijing IP Court within 30 days of the decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Don't Let Someone Else Register Your Brand

The 3-month opposition window is your last chance to stop a conflicting trademark. Contact us immediately.

  • Free initial assessment
  • Response within 24 hours
  • CNIPA-accredited guidance
File an Opposition Now

[email protected]

+86 138-3949-0337