A third party (a squatter / bad-faith filer, 抢注) registered or applied for your brand in China. Answer 4 questions to rank your response routes, deadlines and evidence. Nothing leaves your browser.
1. Where does the conflicting mark stand right now?
In preliminary publication (3-month opposition window open)
Already registered
Filed but not yet published
2. What prior right / recognition do you have?
Earlier CNIPA registration or pending filing
Used the brand in China with market presence
Well-known / famous brand (strong abroad)
No earlier right yet
3. Any sign the filer is acting in bad faith?
They are your agent / distributor / representative
They file many brands / obvious mass squatting
They clearly know your brand (contact, business)
No clear signal
4. If registered, how long ago?
Within the last 5 years
More than 5 years ago
Not registered yet
Why this matters: Under the PRC Trademark Law (amended, in force 2024-04-20), bad-faith registration without intent to use is expressly barred (Art. 4), and an agent/representative who registers the principal's mark without consent cannot keep it (Art. 15). Bad-faith filers can face administrative fines and civil damages. Foreign parties must act through a CNIPA-recorded agent.
Evidence to gather:
Official fees: opposition CNY 450 · invalidation CNY 675 · non-use cancellation CNY 500. Indication only — not legal advice; deadlines are strict.
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