A plain-English guide for foreign businesses entering the Chinese market.
China follows a "first-to-file" rule: the person who files first generally owns the mark, regardless of who used it first. If you sell, manufacture or plan to sell in China, filing early is the single most important step.
We run a clearance search against the CNIPA register to spot conflicting marks in your classes. This catches problems before you pay official fees.
China uses the Nice Classification. Goods and services are split into 45 classes. Most businesses need 2–5 classes. A narrow filing is cheaper but leaves gaps; we help you cover the right scope.
A Chineseagent files the application in Chinese. Examination is formal (distinctiveness, not conflicts only). If refused, you may request re-examination. If approved, the mark is published for a 3-month opposition period.
If you also want protection in other countries, a Madrid international registration lets you designate China (and others) from one application, based on your home or China filing.
A straightforward China trademark takes about 9–12 months. Our agency fee is USD 180–250 per class (CNIPA official fees billed at cost). First 30-minute consultation is free.
No. Foreign individuals and companies can file through a CNIPA-registered agent without a local office.
Use ™ as soon as you file; ® only after registration is granted.