Episode 53: With Emma Shen, PRC lawyer and intellectual property rights specialist

My colleague Emma Shen has been dealing with intellectual property topics as a PRC lawyer for quite a while now. I have asked her to explain in this episode about the importance of trademark registration in China and how to avoid problems.

We discuss the following:

• the registration system in China which is based on a first-to-file basis which create opportunities for copycats so filing for registration as early as possible is key

• the importance of having a brand in Chinese and choosing the right classes

• the requirements for online selling through the relevant e-commerce platforms

• avoiding problems with customs, blocking competitors and being smarter than your business partners

• also in case of “only doing OEM” in China, trademark registration is extremely important

• some cases we have experienced over the years

• registration through WIPO

Even if you are not dealing with China in any way, it can be very important to register your trademark because you also do not want someone using your brand on the Chinese market without your knowledge and permission. We saw that happening as well and the brand owner had to take legal steps to get its brand back! Registration costs a couple of hundreds USD but it can avoid problems that may costs you so much more!

You can always contact Emma or me for more information or advice. I can send you our Trademark protection in China guide if you email me (cc@equasia-group.com).