China Trademark Registration
Protect your brand in the world's largest market. Expert CNIPA filing, Madrid designation, and comprehensive IP protection with guaranteed results.
Why Register a Trademark in China
China operates under a first-to-file system: the first applicant to file with CNIPA (China National Intellectual Property Administration) generally secures rights — regardless of prior use elsewhere. Early filing is absolutely critical to protect your brand from squatters and counterfeiters.
First-to-File Protection
Unlike the US, China doesn't recognize common-law rights. The first filer wins — even if you've used the mark for years elsewhere.
1.4 Billion Consumers
Access the world's largest consumer market and second-largest economy. Essential for e-commerce platforms like Tmall, JD.com, and Taobao.
Legal Enforcement
Sue infringers, seize counterfeits at customs, take down unauthorized sellers, and protect your manufacturing supply chain.
CNIPA National Filing vs Madrid Designation
Two routes to protect your brand in China — each with distinct advantages depending on your business goals.
| Attribute | CNIPA National Filing | Madrid Designation |
|---|---|---|
| Control over specification | ✅ High — full flexibility | ⚠️ Centralized; less flexible |
| Need for local agent | ✅ Yes (mandatory for foreigners) | ✅ Yes, for CNIPA responses |
| Typical timeline | ✅ 7–12 months | ⏱️ 12–18 months (WIPO/CNIPA steps) |
| Best when | 🎯 China is priority market | 🌍 Multi-country portfolio management |
| Cost profile | 💰 Competitive; per-class fees | 💰 Centralized fees + local handling |
| Amendment flexibility | ✅ Higher | ⚠️ Limited |
| Dependency risk | ✅ None | ⚠️ 5-year link to home application |
Step-by-Step China Trademark Registration
From search to certificate — our proven 6-step process ensures comprehensive protection.
Comprehensive similarity search across identical marks, phonetic Chinese equivalents, transliterations, and well-known mark conflicts. We search CNIPA's official database and provide a detailed clearance report within 1–3 days. Cost: $100–$400
Decide between CNIPA national filing (faster, more control) or Madrid designation (multi-country efficiency). We'll recommend the optimal strategy based on your market priorities, timeline, and budget.
Required: trademark image (JPG/PDF, 300+ DPI), Chinese-language goods/services specification, Power of Attorney, business license or passport (notarized & legalized), legal representative ID. We handle all translations and formatting.
CNIPA issues Notice of Acceptance after formality check (1–2 months). Application number assigned immediately; official filing date establishes priority. Online filing provides fastest processing and digital tracking.
CNIPA examines for absolute grounds (descriptiveness, prohibited symbols) and relative grounds (similarity to prior marks). Timeline: 4–6 months. If approved, mark published in the Trademark Gazette for a 3-month opposition window.
Certificate issued 2–3 months after publication (if no opposition). 10-year validity from the registration date. We recommend China Customs recordation (¥800) for border seizure of counterfeits and ongoing monitoring services.
China Trademark Classes
China follows the Nice Classification system with 45 classes. Strategic class selection is critical — protection is limited to registered classes only.
Most Popular Goods Classes (1–34)
Class 3 – Cosmetics & Cleaning
Cosmetics, perfumes, soaps, shampoos, skincare, beauty products.
Class 9 – Electronics & Software
Computers, mobile apps, software, electronics, batteries, smartwatches.
Class 18 – Leather Goods
Bags, wallets, luggage, handbags, umbrellas, travel accessories.
Class 25 – Apparel
Clothing, footwear, headwear, fashion accessories, sportswear.
Class 28 – Toys & Sporting Goods
Games, toys, sporting equipment, fitness apparatus, playground items.
Class 30 – Food Products
Coffee, tea, processed foods, spices, baked goods, condiments.
Most Popular Service Classes (35–45)
Class 35 – Retail & Advertising 🔥
Critical for e-commerce: retail store services, online marketplace, marketing, advertising. Required for Tmall, JD.com, Taobao.
Class 42 – Technology Services
SaaS, IT services, software development, cloud computing, tech consulting.
Class 41 – Education & Entertainment
Training, publishing, online education, entertainment services, events.
Class 43 – Food Services
Restaurants, catering, hotels, cafés, food delivery services.
Recommended Multi-Class Strategies
Fashion Brand
Tech Startup
F&B Brand
China Trademark Registration Pricing
Competitive packages starting from $350 for first-class CNIPA filing. Government fees separate.
Trademark Search
Single Class Filing
Each Additional Class
Additional Services
Office Action Response
$500–$1,500 · Challenge examiner refusals, submit evidence, legal arguments.
Opposition Defense
$1,500–$5,000 · Defend against third-party oppositions during publication.
Chinese Brand Name Development
$500–$2,000 · Professional naming with cultural & phonetic optimization.
Customs Recordation
¥800 (~$110) · Enable border seizure of counterfeit goods.
Renewal (every 10 years)
$300–$600 per class · Must renew before expiration.
Monitoring Services
$100–$300/year · Watch for conflicting applications & infringement.
• 3 classes comprehensive: $1,200–$2,500
• 5 classes + Chinese name: $2,000–$4,000
• With office action response: +$500–$1,500
What You Need to File
- Trademark Specimen — JPG/PDF, 300+ DPI, 5×5 to 10×10 cm
- Business License — Certificate of Incorporation (notarized & legalized/apostilled)
- Power of Attorney — Signed by legal representative, company stamp
- Passport/ID — Legal representative identification
- Goods/Services List — Chinese-language specification per class
- Priority Documents — If claiming 6-month priority from home country
Top Reasons for Trademark Refusal
Understanding common pitfalls helps you file strategically and avoid costly delays.
Confusing Similarity (40%)
Identical or similar to prior marks in appearance, pronunciation (Chinese phonetics critical), meaning, or commercial impression.
Descriptive Terms (20%)
Directly describes product characteristics, quality, purpose, value, or geographic origin. Example: "SUPER FAST" for computers.
Lack of Distinctiveness (15%)
Overly simple marks: single letters/numbers, common shapes, basic geometric designs, ordinary slogans.
Prohibited Elements (10%)
National flags/emblems, Red Cross symbols, discriminatory content, deceptive geographical indications, exaggerated claims.
Bad Faith Filing (8%)
Obvious trademark squatting, copying well-known foreign brands, mass speculative filings, no intent to use.
Poor Chinese Translation (2%)
Offensive meanings, unintended negative connotations, poor phonetic match. Professional naming prevents embarrassing mistakes.
Defend Your Brand After Registration
- Administrative Actions — File complaints with local IP bureaus for investigations, raids, and seizures ($2,000–$10,000; 2–6 months)
- Civil Litigation — Sue in specialized IP courts for injunctions, damages, and destruction orders ($10,000–$100,000+; 12–36 months)
- Customs Recordation — Register with China Customs (¥800) for automatic border seizure of counterfeits
- E-commerce Takedowns — File on Taobao/Tmall IPP and JD.com for 24–72 hour listing removal (free platform service)
- Monitoring Services — Professional watching for conflicting applications and marketplace infringement ($100–$300/year)
Pitfalls & How We Protect You
⚠️ First-to-File Risk
Danger: Competitors, ex-distributors, or professional squatters register your brand first.
✓ Mitigation: File BEFORE market entry, product launches, or public announcements. We offer expedited filing within 48 hours.
⚠️ Specification Errors
Danger: Overly broad or mis-classified goods/services descriptions cause automatic refusal.
✓ Mitigation: Our CNIPA-certified agents draft specifications tailored to Chinese examination practice and recent precedents.
⚠️ Chinese Name Conflicts
Danger: Phonetic translations conflict with existing marks or carry offensive meanings.
✓ Mitigation: Professional Chinese naming service with cultural sensitivity review and comprehensive phonetic clearance searches.
⚠️ Agent Requirement Violations
Danger: Foreign applicants without China domicile MUST appoint licensed Chinese agents — DIY filings rejected.
✓ Mitigation: We're fully licensed with CNIPA, maintaining direct filing privileges and examiner relationships for faster processing.
China Trademark Registration FAQ
How long does China trademark registration take?
7–12 months for straightforward CNIPA national filings without opposition. Madrid designations take 12–18 months. Complex cases with office actions or oppositions can extend to 18–36 months.
Can I register a trademark in China if I don't have a business there?
Yes. Foreign companies and individuals can register trademarks in China even without local operations. However, you MUST appoint a China-licensed trademark agent (mandatory legal requirement).
Do I need both English and Chinese trademark registrations?
Highly recommended. Chinese consumers identify brands by Chinese names, and competitors may register Chinese transliterations if you don't. File separate applications for English name, Chinese name, and logo for comprehensive protection.
What's the total cost to register a trademark in China?
$500–$1,000 for single-class basic filing; $1,200–$2,500 for 3-class comprehensive protection; $2,000–$4,000 for 5 classes with Chinese brand name development. Government fees (¥270–300/class) are separate.
Does my US trademark protect me in China?
No. Trademarks are territorial. US registration provides zero protection in China. You must file separately with CNIPA or through Madrid Protocol designation.
What happens if someone else filed my trademark first?
China's first-to-file system means they generally own rights. Options: (1) opposition during 3-month publication, (2) invalidation based on bad faith, (3) non-use cancellation after 3 years, (4) negotiated buyout. Prevention through early filing is critical.
How many classes should I register?
Register in all classes where you currently operate or plan to operate within 3 years. Minimum: your product/service classes + Class 35 (retail/e-commerce). Budget $200–$400 per additional class.
Can I file directly with CNIPA without an agent?
Only if you have a China domicile (Chinese business registration or residence). Foreign applicants MUST use a China-licensed trademark agent — this is a mandatory legal requirement, not optional.
What's the difference between CNIPA and Madrid Protocol filing?
CNIPA national filing is faster (7–12 months), offers more control over specifications, and has no dependency risk. Madrid Protocol is better for multi-country portfolios but takes longer (12–18 months) and has a 5-year dependency on your home application.
How long is a China trademark valid?
10 years from registration date, renewable indefinitely every 10 years. Renewal costs ¥500/class (~$70) + agent fees ($300–$600/class). No annual maintenance fees.
What if I don't use my trademark for 3 years?
It becomes vulnerable to non-use cancellation. Any party can petition CNIPA to cancel. You must provide evidence of genuine commercial use (sales invoices, advertising, product packaging) to defend. Maintain dated proof of use across all registered classes.
Can I stop counterfeits on Taobao and Tmall?
Yes. Register on Alibaba's IP Protection Platform (IPP) with your trademark certificate, then file takedown requests for infringing listings. Platform typically removes within 24–72 hours (free service).
What to Expect: Month-by-Month
| Phase | Timeline | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-filing search & preparation | 1–2 weeks | Clearance & strategy |
| Application filing | Day 1 | Priority date established |
| Formality examination | 1–2 months | Document checks |
| Substantive examination | 4–6 months | Examiner review |
| Publication period | 3 months | Opposition window |
| Certificate issuance | 2–3 months | Registration complete |
| TOTAL (no objections) | 7–12 months | Smooth filing |
| With opposition/review | +12–24 months | Extended proceedings |
Recent Legal Developments
🛡️ Bad Faith Crackdown
CNIPA has intensified examination of speculative filings and mass trademark squatting. Well-known mark protections strengthened; high-profile squatters facing application rejections and invalidations.
⚖️ Damages Increases
Statutory damages raised to ¥5 million (~$700,000). Punitive damages up to 5× actual damages for willful infringement. More favorable calculation methods for plaintiffs in IP courts.
🛒 E-commerce Liability
Platforms face increased responsibility for trademark infringement. Faster takedown requirements enforced. Repeat-infringer policies mandatory on Tmall, JD.com, Taobao, Pinduoduo.
Protect Your Brand in China Today
Don't let trademark squatters steal your brand. Our CNIPA-certified agents secure your rights with guaranteed results.
⚡ Expedited 48-hour filing available · 15+ years CNIPA experience · 92% first-filing success rateSearch a Trademark in China
Check whether your brand name is already filed or registered with CNIPA before you apply. Enter a name and (optionally) a class.
Enter a brand name above to run a live check.
This tool queries trademark records via Corporation China's secure server. Indicative results only and not legal advice. A formal clearance search by our CNIPA-certified agents is recommended before filing.
Search a Trademark in China
Check whether your brand name is already filed or registered with CNIPA before you apply. Enter a name and (optionally) a class.
Enter a brand name above to run a live check.
This tool queries trademark records via Corporation China's secure server. Indicative results only and not legal advice. A formal clearance search by our CNIPA-certified agents is recommended before filing.
Search China Trademarks Free
Check trademark availability in China's official CNIPA database. Instant preliminary results to protect your brand.
Professional Trademark Search Report
Get a comprehensive clearance report prepared by CNIPA-licensed trademark attorneys. Includes phonetic analysis, design mark conflicts, well-known mark comparison, and registration strategy.
✅ What's Included:
- Comprehensive similarity search (identical, similar, phonetic)
- Chinese character transliteration analysis
- Design/logo mark comparison
- Well-known trademark conflict check
- Class-specific availability assessment
- Registration success probability rating
- Strategic filing recommendations
- Alternative brand name suggestions (if conflicts found)
How China Trademark Search Works
Enter Your Brand Name
Input your desired trademark in English, Chinese characters, or both. You can also search by registration number if checking existing marks.
CNIPA Database Query
Our system connects to China's official trademark database (CNIPA) with 40+ million registered and pending trademarks.
Review Conflicts
Get instant preliminary results showing identical and similar marks. For comprehensive analysis, order our professional report.
Three Ways to Search China Trademarks
Free Quick Search
Best for: Initial availability check
Searches: Identical and similar word marks in specified classes
Time: Instant
Cost: Free
⚠️ Does not include phonetic or design mark analysis
Professional Report
Best for: Pre-filing due diligence
Searches: Comprehensive analysis including phonetic conflicts, design marks, well-known marks
Time: 24-48 hours
Cost: $299
✅ Recommended for all filings
Watch Service
Best for: Ongoing monitoring
Searches: Continuous monitoring for new conflicting applications
Time: Weekly reports
Cost: $199/year
Essential after registration
Why Trademark Search is Essential in China
⏱️ Save 7-12 Months
Avoid filing applications that will be rejected for conflicts. A proper search identifies problems before you invest time and money in the registration process.
💰 Save $500-$5,000
Government fees and attorney costs for refused applications are non-refundable. Searching first prevents wasted filing fees, office action responses, and appeals.
🛡️ Avoid Squatters
First-to-file system means someone may have already registered your brand. Early search reveals conflicts before you invest in marketing and inventory.
📝 Strategic Planning
Search results inform smart decisions: which classes to file, whether to modify your mark, if Chinese name alternatives are needed, defensive filing strategies.
🎯 Phonetic Conflicts
Chinese trademark law considers phonetic similarity. "Nike" conflicts with "奈克" and "耐克" — only professional search catches these critical issues.
⚖️ Legal Defense
Comprehensive search report provides evidence of due diligence if disputes arise. Shows good faith and strengthens your legal position.
Understanding Your Search Results
REGISTERED Active Registration
What it means: This trademark is currently registered and protected. Filing an identical or confusingly similar mark in the same class will likely be rejected.
Your options: (1) Modify your mark significantly, (2) File in different classes, (3) Negotiate coexistence agreement, (4) Choose alternative brand name.
PENDING Application Filed
What it means: Application filed but not yet registered. Still creates prior rights that may block your application during examination.
Your options: (1) Wait to see if application is refused/abandoned, (2) File opposition if published, (3) Modify your mark, (4) Monitor status.
AVAILABLE No Direct Conflicts
What it means: No identical marks found in preliminary search. However, this does NOT guarantee registration success.
Next steps: (1) Order Professional Search Report for phonetic and design analysis, (2) File application promptly to secure priority, (3) Consider defensive filings.
Ready to Protect Your Brand in China?
Get expert guidance from CNIPA-licensed trademark attorneys. Comprehensive search + strategic filing = maximum protection.
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Search China Trademarks Free
Check trademark availability in China's official CNIPA database. Instant preliminary results to protect your brand.
Professional Trademark Search Report
Get a comprehensive clearance report prepared by CNIPA-licensed trademark attorneys. Includes phonetic analysis, design mark conflicts, well-known mark comparison, and registration strategy.
✅ What's Included:
- Comprehensive similarity search (identical, similar, phonetic)
- Chinese character transliteration analysis
- Design/logo mark comparison
- Well-known trademark conflict check
- Class-specific availability assessment
- Registration success probability rating
- Strategic filing recommendations
- Alternative brand name suggestions (if conflicts found)
How China Trademark Search Works
Enter Your Brand Name
Input your desired trademark in English, Chinese characters, or both. You can also search by registration number if checking existing marks.
CNIPA Database Query
Our system connects to China's official trademark database (CNIPA) with 40+ million registered and pending trademarks.
Review Conflicts
Get instant preliminary results showing identical and similar marks. For comprehensive analysis, order our professional report.
Three Ways to Search China Trademarks
Free Quick Search
Best for: Initial availability check
Searches: Identical and similar word marks in specified classes
Time: Instant
Cost: Free
⚠️ Does not include phonetic or design mark analysis
Professional Report
Best for: Pre-filing due diligence
Searches: Comprehensive analysis including phonetic conflicts, design marks, well-known marks
Time: 24-48 hours
Cost: $299
✅ Recommended for all filings
Watch Service
Best for: Ongoing monitoring
Searches: Continuous monitoring for new conflicting applications
Time: Weekly reports
Cost: $199/year
Essential after registration
Why Trademark Search is Essential in China
⏱️ Save 7-12 Months
Avoid filing applications that will be rejected for conflicts. A proper search identifies problems before you invest time and money in the registration process.
💰 Save $500-$5,000
Government fees and attorney costs for refused applications are non-refundable. Searching first prevents wasted filing fees, office action responses, and appeals.
🛡️ Avoid Squatters
First-to-file system means someone may have already registered your brand. Early search reveals conflicts before you invest in marketing and inventory.
📝 Strategic Planning
Search results inform smart decisions: which classes to file, whether to modify your mark, if Chinese name alternatives are needed, defensive filing strategies.
🎯 Phonetic Conflicts
Chinese trademark law considers phonetic similarity. "Nike" conflicts with "奈克" and "耐克" — only professional search catches these critical issues.
⚖️ Legal Defense
Comprehensive search report provides evidence of due diligence if disputes arise. Shows good faith and strengthens your legal position.
Understanding Your Search Results
REGISTERED Active Registration
What it means: This trademark is currently registered and protected. Filing an identical or confusingly similar mark in the same class will likely be rejected.
Your options: (1) Modify your mark significantly, (2) File in different classes, (3) Negotiate coexistence agreement, (4) Choose alternative brand name.
PENDING Application Filed
What it means: Application filed but not yet registered. Still creates prior rights that may block your application during examination.
Your options: (1) Wait to see if application is refused/abandoned, (2) File opposition if published, (3) Modify your mark, (4) Monitor status.
AVAILABLE No Direct Conflicts
What it means: No identical marks found in preliminary search. However, this does NOT guarantee registration success.
Next steps: (1) Order Professional Search Report for phonetic and design analysis, (2) File application promptly to secure priority, (3) Consider defensive filings.
Ready to Protect Your Brand in China?
Get expert guidance from CNIPA-licensed trademark attorneys. Comprehensive search + strategic filing = maximum protection.
Search China Trademarks Free
Check trademark availability instantly. Search 40+ million registered and pending Chinese trademarks.
3-Step Trademark Search Process
Enter Your Brand
Type your desired trademark in English, Chinese, or both. Select search parameters and trademark class.
Instant Analysis
Our system queries CNIPA's database of 40+ million trademarks for identical and similar matches.
Review Results
Get instant preliminary results showing potential conflicts, registration status, and filing recommendations.
Search China Trademarks Free
Check trademark availability instantly. Search 40+ million registered and pending Chinese trademarks.
3-Step Trademark Search Process
Enter Your Brand
Type your desired trademark in English, Chinese, or both. Select search parameters and trademark class.
Instant Analysis
Our system queries CNIPA's database of 40+ million trademarks for identical and similar matches.
Review Results
Get instant preliminary results showing potential conflicts, registration status, and filing recommendations.
Search a Trademark in China
Check whether your brand name is already filed or registered with CNIPA before you apply. Enter a name and (optionally) a class.
Enter a brand name above to run a live check.
This tool queries trademark records via Corporation China's secure server. Indicative results only and not legal advice. A formal clearance search by our CNIPA-certified agents is recommended before filing.