Do You Need a China Trademark?
Why first-to-file matters and when to register.
China is first-to-file
Trademark rights in China belong to whoever files first, not whoever used the mark first abroad. Squatters routinely register foreign brand names, then block imports, marketplace listings and distributors — or demand payment to release the mark.
Where a Chinese trademark matters
- E-commerce marketplaces and brand registries
- Customs recordal against counterfeit exports
- Distributor and franchise agreements
- Advertising, packaging and domain disputes
The cost of waiting
A straightforward registration starts from $299 per class. Opposition, cancellation or buy-back actions against a squatter cost multiples of that and take years. Filing early is the cheapest insurance in China market entry.
When to file
Before you launch sales, exhibit at trade fairs, appoint distributors or start manufacturing in China. If your name needs a Chinese version, create and file it at the same time.
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