Country guide · CNIPA
🇨🇳China trademark registration
Strictly first-to-file — trademark squatting is extremely common. File early, even before entering the Chinese market. Subclass system adds complexity beyond the standard Nice classification.
9–14 months
$300
per class, paid to CNIPA
First-to-File
Required for foreign applicants
Member
What to know before filing in China
First-to-file priority. China grants trademark rights to the party that files first at the CNIPA. Prior unregistered use carries limited or no weight against a later registration. File early.
Examination timeline. Typical end-to-end timing is 9–14 months from filing to registration, assuming no opposition or substantive refusal. Most office actions (formality or substantive) are responded to inside that window.
Local representation. Required for foreign applicants. GTC's China filings are signed by a registered local attorney or agent qualified before the CNIPA — that representation is included in our service fee.
Madrid Protocol available. China can also be designated through a single WIPO Madrid international application. For brands filing in 10+ jurisdictions, the Madrid route is typically cheaper than direct national filings.
Ready to file in China?
Talk to a senior attorney about your China filing. We'll scope the application, quote a flat fee, and file as soon as you accept.