China Trademark Registration

China, one of the world’s largest consumer markets, offers unmissable opportunities for brands thanks to its manufacturing power, rapid digitalization, and expansive e-commerce network. However, establishing a lasting presence and achieving long-term success in this massive market starts with trademark registration. In China, trademark registration is not only a legal requirement but also the primary method of protecting against counterfeiting and gaining credibility in the market. This article outlines the trademark registration process in China, its benefits, and the expert support offered by Marca Bien.

Why the Chinese Market Is Critical for Brands

Spending Power and the Expanding Middle Class

With a population exceeding 1.4 billion and evolving shopping habits driven by digitalization, China has become a high-potential market for brands of all sizes. The demand in sectors such as fashion, technology, food, cosmetics, and healthcare makes China particularly attractive.

Prevalence of Counterfeiting

Due to its vast manufacturing capacity, China is also known for the widespread existence of counterfeit products. Therefore, trademark registration serves not only as legal protection but also as an effective shield against counterfeiting.

Trademark Registration Process in China

Trademark Search and Preliminary Review

The first step is to check whether your brand has already been registered in China. The “first-to-file” principle applies, meaning whoever registers the brand first owns all rights. For this reason, conducting a prior search is of critical importance.

Determining the Correct Classes

China adopts the Nice Classification system, but it also has unique sub-class distinctions. Selecting the correct classes therefore requires expertise.

Preparation of Application Documents

Application documents must include the brand name, logo (if any), applicant's identity or business details, power of attorney, and class information. Applications are submitted to the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA).

Examination and Publication Stage

The application is reviewed by CNIPA. If no deficiencies or similarities are found, the brand is published publicly. Third parties have the right to file an objection within 3 months. If no objection is filed, the registration is finalized.

Approval of Registration

Applications that pass without objections are concluded with the issuance of an official trademark registration certificate. This certificate provides legal protection for your brand in China and helps enforce your rights against third parties.

Benefits of Being Registered in China

Provides Legal Protection

Trademark registration in China gives you the right to take legal action against unauthorized use. This protection is especially important for manufacturers and exporters.

Trademark Protection at Customs

Registered trademarks in China can be recorded with customs authorities to prevent the export of counterfeit goods. This provides active protection at the border.

Brand Rights on E-commerce Platforms

China's leading e-commerce platforms such as Tmall, JD.com, and Taobao only allow sales by registered brands. Without a trademark, your products may be delisted or rejected.

Franchise and Licensing Opportunities

Registered trademarks can be franchised to local business partners in China. A valid trademark is also a prerequisite for licensing agreements.

Manage the Process Accurately with Professional Support

Due to language barriers, legal differences, and complex classification structures, trademark registration in China can be challenging without expert assistance. A small mistake in the application could result in losing your rights to the brand. Therefore, it is safest to entrust the process to professionals.

Trademark Registration in China with Marca Bien

Marca Bien provides professional services for trademark registration in China through its experienced team. The entire process—from trademark search to certificate issuance—is handled on your behalf. Trademark monitoring and renewal services are also offered systematically.

Services Offered by Marca Bien

• Researches the availability of your brand in China.
• Determines the correct classifications for comprehensive protection.
• Prepares all necessary documents and submits them to CNIPA.
• Manages the entire application process from start to finish.
• Handles objections during the publication phase.
• Provides trademark monitoring and renewal services after registration.

Common Mistakes and What to Watch Out For

Submitting Without Preliminary Search

Since China follows a “first-to-file” system, someone else could register your brand if a prior search is not conducted. This makes preliminary research essential.

Incorrect Class Selection

Incomplete or incorrect classification may leave parts of your products unprotected. Therefore, class determination must be done under expert supervision.

Not Registering the Brand in Chinese Characters

It is highly recommended to register your trademark in both Latin script and Chinese characters. Otherwise, your brand recognition and protection may be limited.

Missing Renewal Deadlines

Trademark registration in China is valid for 10 years. If it is not renewed before expiration, all rights are lost. This process should be tracked by a professional team.

Secure Your Brand in China

Protecting your brand in a giant market like China is a prerequisite for staying competitive. An unregistered brand is vulnerable to counterfeiting and may be perceived as unreliable by business partners and consumers.

Marca Bien ensures your brand is legally protected in the Chinese market, supporting your digital and physical growth. Register your trademark now and establish a solid foundation in China.