A trademark is the legal shield and core asset of a brand. Obtaining exclusive trademark rights is essential to prevent counterfeiting, avoid brand squatting, and enhance consumer trust and market recognition. We provide end-to-end trademark registration agency services for domestic and international enterprises and individuals, from search and filing to post-registration maintenance, helping clients complete China trademark registration efficiently and compliantly.
1. Trademark Search and Risk Assessment
A pre-filing search is critical to avoid refusal. We conduct professional similarity searches using the official Trademark Office online system, based on the client's trademark name or design, to identify identical or similar prior marks in the same or similar classes. We also provide a feasibility analysis report, assess the risk of refusal, and suggest alternative names. If the search results show significant uncertainty, we offer in-depth strategic advice to help clients make optimal decisions.
2. Trademark Application Filing
Based on the client's actual business, we accurately select goods/services classes and items under the Classification of Similar Goods and Services (based on the Nice Classification). There are 45 classes in total (classes 1-34 for goods, 35-45 for services). We advise clients to reasonably choose classes according to their actual business needs and avoid blind expansion.
For document preparation, we provide standardised checklists and guidance to ensure completeness and compliance. For an enterprise application, typical documents include: a copy of the business licence (stamped), a clear trademark image (JPG, black-and-white or colour), a properly completed trademark registration application form, and a copy of the handler's ID. For an individual application: a copy of the ID, a copy of the individual business licence (business scope must relate to the classes applied for), the image, the application form, and a power of attorney. When filing through an agent, a signed or sealed power of attorney is also required. We then file the application via the online trademark system and pay the official fees on behalf of the client.
3. Examination Follow-Up and Office Action Handling
After filing, the Trademark Office conducts formal and substantive examinations. According to Article 28 of the Trademark Law, the Office shall complete the examination within nine months from the receipt of the application. The China National Intellectual Property Administration has optimised procedures; the average examination period is stable at four months, and the general trademark registration cycle has been shortened to seven months. After passing the formal examination, the Office issues a Filing Receipt, and the mark may be used with “TM”. The substantive examination reviews distinctiveness, legality and conflicts; if passed, the mark proceeds to publication. We track the process, handle any office actions or requests for correction promptly, and ensure the application is not refused due to timing issues.
4. Publication and Registration
After passing substantive examination, the mark enters the preliminary approval publication period. Under the current Trademark Law, the publication period is three months, during which third parties may file oppositions. If no opposition is filed within that period, the mark enters the registration publication (about one month), and thereafter the registration certificate is issued. We monitor the publication for oppositions and assist clients in responding if needed. After the publication period passes without opposition, we help collect the registration certificate (electronic certificates are now common; validity is ten years from the registration date).
5. Post-Registration Maintenance
Trademark registration is not a one-off event. We provide ongoing maintenance services, including: renewal (within 12 months before expiry, with a six-month grace period), change of name/address, assignment, licensing recordal, monitoring and watching, as well as handling non-litigation cases such as cancellation for non-use, refusal review, opposition, and invalidation.
Q: How long does trademark registration take?
A: Under Article 28 of the Trademark Law, the statutory period is nine months. The CNIPA has reduced the average examination period to four months and the general registration cycle to seven months, the fastest globally. The publication period is three months, followed by about one month for registration publication. In a smooth case, the total time from filing to registration is approximately 8-12 months.
Q: What if my trademark is refused?
A: If a trademark is refused, the applicant may apply for a refusal review with the Trademark Review and Adjudication Board within 15 days from receipt of the refusal decision. We provide refusal review services to help prepare review materials and seek registration.
Q: What needs to be done after registration?
A: A trademark registration is valid for ten years. Renewal should be filed within 12 months before expiry, with a six-month grace period. Monitoring is recommended to detect squatting or infringement. Under Article 49(2) of the Trademark Law, a mark that has not been genuinely used for three consecutive years may be cancelled upon application by any third party; use evidence must be retained.
Q: What documents are required for a trademark application?
A: For an enterprise: a copy of the business licence (stamped), a clear trademark image, a properly completed application form, a copy of the handler’s ID, and a power of attorney (if filing through an agent). For an individual: a copy of the ID, a copy of the individual business licence (business scope must relate to the classes applied for), the trademark image, the application form, and a power of attorney.
Q: What are the changes in the Nice Classification 13th Edition 2026 text?
A: As required by WIPO, all Nice Union members apply the 13th Edition 2026 text from 1 January 2026. Applications with filing date on or after that date must use the new text; earlier filings use the previous text. The new text adds classes for AI, metaverse and other digital economy sectors. Applicants should pay attention to classification adjustments when selecting goods/services.
If you need further details about China trademark registration or a customised solution, please contact us.
Founded in 2005, FINERISE Consulting has been committed to company registration management, offshore company registration, overseas investment services, foreign investment services, financial and tax agency consulting, intellectual property agency and other fields. Provide relevant professional, fast, intimate, thoughtful, safe, cost-effective services, and be your trustworthy partner! Welcome to consult!
Brilliance Consultants International Limited Guangzhou Finerise Management & Consultants Co., Ltd. Guangzhou Finerise Intellectual Property Service Co., Ltd Guangzhou Finerise Management & Consultants Co., Ltd.Foshan Branch
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