China Trademark Registration

CNIPA typically completes first examination within 3-4 months of filing. With no objections, the full process takes about 7-12 months. If an office action or opposition arises, allow 12-18 months. Our pre-filing search helps avoid the most common rejection reasons that cause delays.

Yes. China uses a strict first-to-file system. Your US, EU or other foreign trademark registration offers no protection in China. We regularly see brands that delayed filing only to find their name already registered by a squatter.

Our all-inclusive Full Registration Package is $699 for one class — and that price includes the CNIPA official fee, with no hidden fees. It bundles a CNIPA availability search ($99), application preparation and filing ($275, official fee included) and 10-year monitoring ($399): $773 of services for $699, so you save $74. Need less? Standalone services are available too: a professional CNIPA search is $99, and filing-only is $275 per class (official fee included). Ongoing monitoring is $149/year or $399 one-time for the full 10-year term. Filing the same mark in multiple classes? Contact us for a tailored multi-class quote — package discounts are available.

No. Foreign companies and individuals must file through a CNIPA-accredited Chinese agent. As a registered CNIPA agent, we handle the entire process on your behalf from power of attorney to final certificate delivery. You never need to travel to China.

We run a comprehensive CNIPA database search covering identical, phonetic, and visual similarities across all 45 Nice classes. We also check for common Chinese transliterations that squatters often use. Results typically within 2 business days.

Rejection is common but not final. We can file a review/appeal with CNIPA. Many rejections are successfully overcome through proper legal arguments and evidence of use.

Yes. Foreign individuals and companies can register trademarks in China, but must do so through a CNIPA-accredited Chinese agent. You cannot file directly.

Yes. A registered trademark that is not used for 3 consecutive years may be cancelled by a third party. We recommend keeping proper evidence of use including contracts, invoices, advertising materials, and product packaging.

TM indicates a trademark application has been filed but not yet registered. The R symbol (®) indicates the mark is officially registered and protected under Chinese trademark law. You can only use ® after registration is granted.

Yes, you can search for free on the CNIPA website. However, professional searches are more comprehensive and can identify phonetic similarities and common Chinese transliteration variants that automated searches may miss.

No. The registered trademark cannot be substantially modified. You would need to file a new application for any changes to the mark itself. Non-substantial changes like name/address can be done through modification procedures.

You can file a complaint with the local Market Supervision Administration (administrative route, faster and cheaper) or file a trademark infringement lawsuit in court (judicial route, higher compensation). We can advise on the best approach for your situation.

Yes. Foreign applicants must provide a notarized power of attorney authorizing the Chinese agent to file and prosecute the trademark application on their behalf.

A trademark registration does not directly protect your domain name. However, owning a China trademark gives you stronger grounds to challenge domain name squatting through dispute resolution procedures or litigation.

Yes. Registered China trademarks can be used as collateral for loans from banks or financial institutions. The pledge must be registered with CNIPA to take effect.

Yes. China has accepted sound trademarks and 3D (three-dimensional) trademarks since 2014. Sound marks require musical notation and a sound sample. 3D marks require multiple-angle views. These types face higher distinctiveness requirements.

Yes. Foreign applicants must file through a CNIPA-registered Chinese trademark agent. China Trademark Services is fully accredited to represent international clients.

The complete process typically takes 12-18 months: 1-2 weeks for CNIPA acceptance, 6-9 months for substantive examination, 3-month publication period, and 1-2 months for certificate issuance.

You need a Power of Attorney, applicant information (name, address, nationality), trademark specimen, and a detailed list of goods/services with Nice Classification numbers.

China operates a first-to-file system. The first person to file a trademark application owns the rights, regardless of prior use elsewhere. This makes early filing essential.

Yes. China follows the Nice Classification system with 45 classes. Multi-class applications are allowed but each additional class incurs extra official fees.