Trademark Registration in China: Protect Your Brand
Secure Exclusive Rights in the World’s Largest Market
In China’s first-to-file system, trademark protection is not optional—it’s business-critical. GDL Global simplifies the complex registration process while safeguarding your brand against copycats and counterfeiters.
Why Register a Trademark in China?
✔ Exclusive Nationwide Rights – Prevent others from using identical/similar marks
✔ E-Commerce Protection – Required for Amazon Brand Registry, Tmall, JD.com
✔ Legal Leverage – Sue infringers and demand compensation
✔ Asset Value – Trademarks can be licensed or used as collateral
Key Challenges Foreign Brands Face
⚠ Squatting Risk: Over 80% of foreign brands face preemptive registrations by local entities
⚠ Class System Complexity: China uses 45 Nice Classes with unique sub-categories
⚠ Examination Strictness: 30% higher rejection rate compared to EU/US systems
Our End-to-End Trademark Services
1. Pre-Filing Strategy
Comprehensive Search – Analyzes identical/similar marks across all 45 classes
Filing Strategy – Recommends classes covering your core + defensive protection
Chinese Name Creation – Develops phonetically/logically appropriate Chinese characters
2. Application & Prosecution
Documents preparation (Power of Attorney, specimen, business license)
Submission to China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA)
Handling office actions and partial refusals
3. Post-Registration Protection
10-Year Renewals – Automatic reminders before expiration
Monitoring Service – Alerts for potential infringements
Enforcement Support – Raid actions, customs recordation, litigation
The China Trademark Process Timeline
Stage | Duration | Critical Notes |
Search & Strategy | 3-5 days | Identifies squatting risks |
Application Submission | 1 day | Priority claimed within 6 months of foreign filing |
Formal Examination | 1-2 months | Checks documentation completeness |
Substantive Examination | 6-9 months | Assesses distinctiveness and conflicts |
Publication | 3 months | Opposition period for third parties |
Registration Certificate | 1-2 months | Valid for 10 years from filing date |
Special Considerations
• Multi-Class vs. Single-Class: China requires separate applications per class
• Color vs. B&W: B&W registrations provide broader protection
• Chinese Characters: Essential for market recognition and enforcement
Why Choose GDL Global?
✅ Preemptive Filing – We secure trademarks before market entry
✅ Dispute Resolution – Handle oppositions/cancellations in-house
✅ Cost Efficiency – Bundle classes for 20%+ savings vs. DIY filing
✅ International Coordination – Madrid System extensions available