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ARTICLE · 14 JULY 2026

China's 2026 Trade Mark Law Reform: Key Changes And Practical Considerations

China's comprehensive trade mark law reform introduces sweeping changes to combat bad-faith filings, strengthen enforcement, and modernise brand protection. With new penalties for trade mark hoarding, expanded well-known mark protection, and recognition of motion marks and online use, how will these amendments reshape portfolio management and enforcement strategies when they take effect in January 2027?

ChinaIntellectual Property
What rights holders can do to prepare for 1 January 2027

On 26 June 2026, the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress adopted the comprehensive revision of China's trade mark law. The amended law, comprising 87 articles across nine chapters, will come into force on 1 January 2027.

The reform reflects a clear policy shift towards discouraging trade mark stockpiling, promoting genuine use, strengthening regulatory oversight, and enhancing consumer and rights holder protection. Several of the amendments are likely to have a significant impact on trade mark portfolio management, enforcement strategies, and compliance practices.

1. Stronger Measures Against Bad-Faith Filings and Trade Mark Hoarding

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