Register Your Trademark in China with Confidence

It is strongly recommended.

China follows a first-to-file trademark system, which means the first person to file an application generally obtains the trademark rights, regardless of who used the brand first. Registering your trademark before entering the Chinese market helps reduce the risk of trademark squatting, business disputes, and delays to your expansion plans.

A direct China trademark application is often the preferred option if China is one of your main target markets. It offers greater flexibility when selecting goods and services, allows you to deal directly with the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA), and makes future amendments or renewals easier to manage.

The Madrid System can be a convenient solution when seeking protection in multiple countries at the same time. However, for businesses mainly focused on the Chinese market, direct filing often provides a more straightforward and reliable approach. We can help you choose the option that best fits your business.

A standard trademark application in China usually takes around 10–12 months if no objections or oppositions arise.

The process includes formal examination, substantive examination, a three-month publication period, and finally registration. Processing times may vary depending on the complexity of the application and the workload of CNIPA, but most straightforward applications are completed within this timeframe.

Yes. Foreign companies and individuals can register trademarks in China.

If you do not have a business domicile in mainland China, your application must generally be filed through an authorized Chinese trademark agency. We prepare all required documents, submit the application, and communicate with CNIPA on your behalf throughout the registration process.

In many cases, yes.

Chinese consumers often create Chinese names for foreign brands, even if the business has never officially adopted one. If you do not register a Chinese version of your trademark, someone else may register it first.

Registering both your original trademark and a suitable Chinese name helps strengthen your brand identity and provides broader protection in the Chinese market.

Yes. China is a member of the Madrid System, so international applicants can designate China through a Madrid application.

However, Madrid is not always the best option. Depending on your business goals, a direct China filing may offer greater flexibility and easier management. We are happy to advise which route is more suitable for your situation.

The total cost depends on several factors, including the number of trademark classes, the type of application, and whether additional services such as trademark searches or monitoring are required.

We believe in transparent pricing with no hidden fees. Contact us for a quotation based on your specific trademark and business needs.

Yes.

China allows multi-class trademark applications, meaning one application can cover more than one class of goods or services. However, in some situations, filing separate applications may provide greater flexibility if objections arise in only one class.

We will recommend the most suitable filing strategy based on your products and business plans.

Once your trademark is registered, you receive the exclusive right to use it for the approved goods and services in China.

We also recommend monitoring newly published trademarks to identify potential conflicts as early as possible. Our complimentary 3-year trademark monitoring for first-time clients helps you stay informed and better protect your brand.

A registered trademark in China is valid for 10 years from the date of registration.

It can be renewed every 10 years without limitation, allowing your trademark to remain protected for as long as it continues to be renewed and maintained.

Yes.

After passing examination, your trademark will be published for a three-month opposition period. During this time, third parties may file an opposition if they believe your trademark conflicts with their existing rights or should not be registered.

Not every application is opposed, and many proceed to registration without issue. If an opposition is filed, we can assist you in responding and protecting your application.

A refusal does not always mean the end of the process.

Depending on the reason for refusal, you may be able to file a review, amend your filing strategy, or submit a new application. In many cases, a professional trademark search before filing significantly reduces the risk of refusal.

If your application is rejected, we will explain the reasons clearly and recommend the most practical next steps.

Yes.

Your brand name, logo, slogan, or other distinctive elements can each be registered as separate trademarks. Registering them individually often provides broader protection because each element can be enforced independently. Depending on your branding strategy, we can also help determine whether a combined trademark, separate registrations, or both are the better option.

Yes.

Although you are not required to use your trademark immediately after registration, a registered trademark that has not been genuinely used in China for three consecutive years may become vulnerable to a non-use cancellation request filed by a third party. Keeping records of actual commercial use can help protect your rights if such a challenge arises.

The filing process is straightforward.

For most applications, we only need a clear copy of the trademark, the applicant's name and address, a list of the goods or services to be protected, and a copy of the applicant's passport or business registration certificate. We prepare all necessary filing documents and guide you through every step of the process.

Yes.

Trademark monitoring helps identify newly published applications that may conflict with your registered trademark. Early detection gives you the opportunity to consider appropriate action before conflicting trademarks are registered. As part of our Exclusive 2026 Offer, first-time clients receive free 3-year trademark monitoring with their first trademark registration.